Let’s Dive into Summit Treestands Surround Seat
Hunting from a treestand offers unparalleled advantages, from enhanced visibility to increased scent dispersion. But let’s be honest, comfort often takes a backseat, especially during those long, cold sits waiting for that elusive buck. Enter the Summit Treestands Surround Seat, a potential game-changer designed to alleviate the discomfort and stiffness that plagues many treestand hunters.
I was tired of ending my hunts early due to back pain and leg cramps. I was on the hunt for a seat that provided all-day comfort and could easily be adjusted to different hunting positions.
Upon unboxing the Summit Treestands Surround Seat, I was immediately impressed by the substantial padding and the seemingly durable Mossy Oak Country DNA camo fabric. It felt well-constructed, although the weight was a bit more than I anticipated. The integrated pockets for hand warmers were a welcome sight, hinting at warmth during those frigid November mornings.
I considered a few other aftermarket treestand seats, including a gel-filled option and a simple closed-cell foam pad. I ultimately chose the Summit Treestands Surround Seat because of its padded sides and adjustable height. The added insulation and support sold me.
My initial excitement was tempered slightly by the weight, but the promise of improved comfort outweighed that concern. I was eager to get this seat into the field and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Summit Treestands Surround Seat to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hunt with the Summit Treestands Surround Seat was on a crisp October morning in the Pennsylvania hardwoods. I tested it with my Summit Viper SD climber, as well as a generic ladder stand. The seat was easy to install on both. The surrounding padding was immediately noticeable.
The temperature dipped into the low 40s, and a slight drizzle threatened to turn into a full-blown rain. The Summit Treestands Surround Seat provided a noticeable barrier against the cold. I could already feel the benefit of the hand warmer pockets as well. The height adjustment allowed me to quickly transition from a comfortable sitting position to a more upright stance for bowhunting.
After a four-hour sit, I was pleasantly surprised by the lack of stiffness. Usually, I’d be hobbling back to my truck, but this time I felt relatively fresh.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Summit Treestands Surround Seat has proven to be a reliable and comfortable addition to my hunting gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to rain, snow, and mud. The Mossy Oak Country DNA camo has held up well.
Cleaning the seat is simple. I use a damp cloth to wipe off any dirt or debris. A mild detergent tackles stubborn stains. This is far easier than cleaning my old seat.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard treestand seats, the Summit Treestands Surround Seat is a significant upgrade. It has extended my hunting sessions and reduced fatigue. It does exactly what it promises, and makes those long sits more comfortable and therefore more productive.
Breaking Down the Features of Summit Treestands Surround Seat
Specifications
The Summit Treestands Surround Seat boasts the following specifications:
- Manufacturer: Summit Treestands
- Color: Mossy Oak Country DNA
- Dimensions: 18″ (Length) x 12″ (Width) x 2-3″ (Depth/Thickness) x 20″ (Height)
- Material: Foam padded seat and sides.
- Pockets: Three (3) pockets with Velcro closures.
- Compatibility: Works with most Summit climbers (excluding Openshot SD), many other commercially available climbers, and some ladder treestands.
- Adjustability: Adjustable height.
These specifications directly impact the user experience. The padded sides provide extra insulation and protection from the cold and wind. The dimensions ensure a comfortable and supportive seating area. The adjustable height caters to different hunting styles.
Performance & Functionality
The Summit Treestands Surround Seat excels at providing enhanced comfort and warmth during long treestand sits. The padded sides cradle the hunter, offering support and insulation that standard seats lack. The strategically placed pockets for hand warmers are a game-changer in frigid conditions.
The seat height adjustment is simple and effective, allowing users to customize their position for optimal shooting. One minor weakness is that the Velcro closures on the pockets can be a bit noisy to open and close, which could spook game in close proximity. The seat meets and exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Summit Treestands Surround Seat features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes comfort and functionality. The build quality is excellent, with durable materials and sturdy stitching. The Mossy Oak Country DNA camo blends seamlessly into most woodland environments.
The seat is reasonably lightweight, considering the amount of padding it provides. It’s easy to install and adjust, even with gloves on. There is a minor learning curve associated with finding the optimal height setting for individual comfort and shooting style.
Durability & Maintenance
The Summit Treestands Surround Seat appears to be built to last. After a full season of use, there are no signs of significant wear and tear. The durable fabric resists tears and abrasions. The stitching remains intact.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Deeper cleaning with mild soap and water can be done as needed. This is a low-maintenance piece of gear.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Summit Treestands Surround Seat includes a standard seat and adjustable straps for secure attachment. It does not come with any additional accessories. It’s a standalone product designed to enhance comfort.
While there are no direct customization options, the seat’s compatibility with various treestand models allows for a degree of personalization. Users can pair it with different climbers or ladder stands based on their preferences. It also is compatible with many aftermarket lumbar support cushions, or even a thin back brace if needed.
Pros and Cons of Summit Treestands Surround Seat
Pros
- Significantly enhances comfort during long treestand sits. The padded sides provide excellent support and insulation.
- Built-in pockets for hand warmers provide crucial warmth in cold weather. Strategically placed for maximum effectiveness.
- Adjustable height allows for customized positioning for different hunting styles. Adapts to bowhunting or rifle hunting needs.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance. The materials and stitching are built to withstand the elements.
- Compatible with most Summit climbers and many other treestand models. Versatile and easy to integrate into existing setups.
Cons
- Velcro closures on pockets can be noisy, potentially spooking game at close range. A silent magnetic closure would be an improvement.
- The price point might be a barrier for some budget-conscious hunters. The cost is higher than basic seat pads.
Who Should Buy Summit Treestands Surround Seat?
The Summit Treestands Surround Seat is perfect for:
- Hunters who spend long hours in treestands, particularly during cold weather.
- Individuals who experience back pain or discomfort from standard treestand seats.
- Hunters who want to enhance their overall hunting experience with added comfort.
- Archery hunters who need to adjust their seat height for optimal shooting positions.
Who should skip this product?
- Hunters who prioritize ultra-lightweight gear above all else.
- Individuals who primarily hunt from ground blinds or other types of stands.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- A high-quality pair of hand warmers to maximize the benefits of the built-in pockets.
- A small, quiet carabiner to attach the seat to the treestand during transport.
Conclusion on Summit Treestands Surround Seat
The Summit Treestands Surround Seat is a worthwhile investment for any serious treestand hunter. It dramatically improves comfort, warmth, and overall hunting experience. While the price is higher than basic seat pads, the benefits justify the cost for those who value comfort and extended hunting sessions.
The value proposition is clear: more comfortable hunts, longer time in the field, and ultimately, a greater chance of success.
I would personally recommend the Summit Treestands Surround Seat to any hunter looking to upgrade their treestand setup. If you’re tired of discomfort and stiffness, this seat is a game-changer. Ditch the pain, extend your hunts, and experience the difference!