Let’s Talk About Allen Treestand Umbrella
The Allen Treestand Umbrella, crafted by Allen, promises to be a hunter’s shield against the unpredictable elements. This Realtree Edge camo-covered umbrella aims to keep you dry and concealed while patiently awaiting your quarry. Its single-person setup and generous 57-inch width suggest a practical and easily deployable solution for maintaining comfort and focus in the stand.
My years in the field have taught me that even the best-laid plans can be ruined by a sudden downpour or an unexpected gust of wind. I was seeking a lightweight, easily packable solution to combat these issues and maintain my effectiveness in the treestand, rather than cutting a hunt short due to discomfort. The Allen Treestand Umbrella seemed like a promising solution.
Upon unboxing, the umbrella felt surprisingly lightweight and compact. The Realtree Edge camo pattern appeared well-executed, seamlessly blending with the surrounding environment. The build quality felt adequate for the price point, though I immediately wondered about its durability in strong winds.
Compared to other options, such as DIY solutions involving tarps or heavier, more cumbersome umbrella systems, the Allen Treestand Umbrella stood out for its portability and ease of setup, at least on paper. I opted for the Allen Treestand Umbrella due to its perceived balance of affordability, packability, and camouflage. Initial excitement was tempered by a healthy dose of skepticism regarding its performance in adverse weather conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Allen Treestand Umbrella to the Test
First Use Experience
The first real test came during an early-season deer hunt in the Appalachian foothills. I mounted the Allen Treestand Umbrella to my treestand before sunrise, following the included instructions which, thankfully, were straightforward and easy to understand. The setup took only a few minutes, a welcome change from fumbling with complicated attachments in the dark.
Unfortunately, the weather cooperated too well. The first outing was bone dry, and I learned little beyond the fact that it didn’t spontaneously combust. A subsequent outing brought a light drizzle. The umbrella adequately shielded me from the moisture, keeping my optics dry and my gear relatively protected.
The ease of use was a definite plus. The umbrella’s mounting system felt secure, and the Realtree Edge camo effectively concealed my silhouette against the backdrop of the trees.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a few weeks of use, the Allen Treestand Umbrella has proven to be a serviceable, but not exceptional, addition to my hunting gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear so far, though the plastic components of the mounting system cause some concern for long-term durability. The fabric covering still repels water effectively after a few light showers.
Cleaning the umbrella is relatively simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove mud and debris. Compared to my previous experience of toughing out the rain or using bulky tarps, the Allen Treestand Umbrella offers a more streamlined and comfortable experience. However, I am concerned it would be easily damaged in high wind situations.
Breaking Down the Features of Allen Treestand Umbrella
Specifications
The Allen Treestand Umbrella boasts the following specifications: it is manufactured by Allen, features a Realtree Edge camo covering, is designed for single-person use, and measures 57 inches wide. These specifications are fundamental to the umbrella’s intended function; the Realtree Edge camo aims to enhance concealment, while the size is intended to provide adequate coverage for one hunter.
The 57-inch width dictates the amount of protection offered from rain and sun. Its single-person design and setup emphasize ease of use and portability.
Performance & Functionality
The Allen Treestand Umbrella performs its primary function adequately, which is providing basic shelter from light rain and obscuring the hunter’s silhouette. Its strengths lie in its portability, ease of setup, and effective camouflage.
However, its weakness is its apparent lack of robustness. The mounting system feels somewhat flimsy, and I have concerns about its ability to withstand strong winds. While it provides decent protection, the Allen Treestand Umbrella meets expectations for a budget-friendly option, but does not exceed them.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for its price point, but the materials used, particularly in the mounting system, feel inexpensive. At this price point, that is acceptable. The umbrella is lightweight, making it easy to transport to and from the treestand.
The design is user-friendly, with a straightforward setup process. There is virtually no learning curve involved.
Durability & Maintenance
The long-term durability of the Allen Treestand Umbrella remains a concern. The plastic components of the mounting system are a potential weak point.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. Repairing any damage, particularly to the frame or mounting system, might prove challenging.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Allen Treestand Umbrella comes with no additional accessories beyond its basic mounting hardware. Customization options are limited, as the design is fairly self-contained.
It is not particularly compatible with accessories from other brands, as the mounting system is designed specifically for treestand attachment.
Pros and Cons of Allen Treestand Umbrella
Pros
- Easy to set up and take down, saving valuable time in the field.
- Realtree Edge camo covering effectively conceals the hunter.
- Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry to and from the treestand.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to budget-conscious hunters.
- Provides adequate shelter from light rain and sun.
Cons
- Plastic mounting system feels flimsy and prone to breakage.
- Questionable durability in strong winds, limiting its use in exposed areas.
- Limited coverage may not be sufficient for heavy downpours.
Who Should Buy Allen Treestand Umbrella?
The Allen Treestand Umbrella is perfect for budget-conscious hunters who primarily hunt in areas with relatively mild weather conditions. It’s also well suited to new hunters, who need inexpensive gear to start. It’s a practical choice for those seeking a lightweight and easily deployable solution for protection from light rain and sun.
Hunters who frequently encounter strong winds or heavy rain should skip this product and invest in a more robust and weather-resistant option. Additional ratchet straps might improve mounting stability.
Conclusion on Allen Treestand Umbrella
The Allen Treestand Umbrella offers a decent value proposition for hunters seeking basic shelter from the elements. Its portability, ease of setup, and effective camouflage are its main strengths.
However, the questionable durability of the mounting system and its limitations in strong winds are significant drawbacks. At $34.64, the price is justified for what it offers, but buyers should be aware of its limitations.
I would cautiously recommend it to hunters on a tight budget who primarily hunt in sheltered areas with mild weather. If you are a new hunter, purchase the Allen Treestand Umbrella and give it a try.