Let’s Talk About Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo
As a seasoned waterfowl hunter, I’ve spent countless hours perched precariously on buckets, logs, and hastily constructed swamp seats, all in the name of a successful hunt. The discomfort, the instability, and the compromised concealment often felt like necessary evils. That was until I encountered the Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo. This innovative shallow water blind promises to revolutionize the way we hunt vertical cover, offering a comfortable, concealed, and stable platform.
My quest for the perfect hunting perch stemmed from a recurring issue: discomfort leading to fidgeting, which ultimately spooks birds. I wanted something that allowed me to remain still for extended periods, maintain a low profile, and easily transition from seated to shooting positions. Unboxing the Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair was a promising start. The Optifade Marsh Camo pattern looked incredibly effective, and the overall construction felt robust.
Compared to a traditional layout blind, the Invisi-Chair offers a far more compact and mobile solution for shallow water or vertical cover scenarios. A simple bucket offers no concealment, while other swamp seats lack the adjustability and integrated blind features of the Invisi-Chair. My first impression was one of cautious optimism. Could this chair really live up to the hype and finally solve my nagging comfort and concealment issues?
Real-World Testing: Putting Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial field test took place in a flooded cornfield, a notorious spot known for its thick vertical cover and wary mallards. I set up the Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair along the edge of the field, adjusting the legs to accommodate the approximately 20 inches of water. The setup was surprisingly simple, taking only a few minutes to get the chair level and stable.
The chair performed admirably in the somewhat muddy conditions. The adjustable legs prevented any sinking, and the mesh top provided excellent visibility. I was able to track birds without giving away my position. The kick-out bar worked seamlessly, allowing for a quick and unobstructed shot when a flock of greenheads cupped into the decoys.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full season of use, the Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair has proven to be a reliable and valuable asset to my hunting setup. The Optifade Marsh Camo has held up well, showing no signs of fading or tearing. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple rinse with a hose removes most of the mud and debris.
Compared to my previous experiences using buckets or improvised seats, the Invisi-Chair is a game-changer. It provides unparalleled comfort, concealment, and stability, allowing me to stay in the field longer and focus on the hunt. The Invisi-Chair has exceeded my expectations and become an indispensable part of my waterfowl hunting arsenal.
Breaking Down the Features of Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo
Specifications
- The Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo is specifically designed for shallow water hunting scenarios. Its key feature is its adjustable leg system.
- The adjustable legs allow for use in water depths up to 29 inches. This ensures the hunter remains high and dry.
- The chair weighs in at a portable 24 lbs. This manageable weight makes it easy to transport to and from hunting locations.
- It boasts a Spring open canopy. This design allows for quick and unobstructed shooting.
- The Optifade Marsh Camo pattern provides excellent concealment in various marsh environments. It helps break up the hunter’s silhouette.
- The chair also features a Mesh blind top. This allows for good visibility while remaining concealed.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the hunter’s comfort, concealment, and ability to effectively engage birds. The adjustable height, camo pattern, and quick-opening canopy are all specifically designed to enhance the hunting experience in shallow water environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair excels in its primary function: providing a concealed and comfortable hunting platform. Its performance is particularly noteworthy in situations where traditional blinds are impractical or impossible to set up. The chair’s adjustability is a standout feature, allowing it to adapt to varying water depths and uneven terrain.
The main strength of the Invisi-Chair lies in its mobility and ease of use. Its main weakness would be that is specifically made for vertical cover scenarios. It is not an all-purpose blind, so it needs to be used in appropriate environments. The chair meets and exceeds expectations for its intended use, offering a significant improvement over traditional seating options.
Design & Ergonomics
The Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both concealment and comfort. The Optifade Marsh Camo is exceptionally effective at blending into marsh environments, and the mesh top provides excellent visibility without compromising concealment. The chair’s weight of 24 lbs strikes a good balance between portability and stability.
The chair’s user-friendliness is another positive aspect. The adjustable legs are easy to operate, and the kick-out bar functions smoothly. There is virtually no learning curve associated with using the Invisi-Chair.
Durability & Maintenance
The Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair is constructed from durable materials that are designed to withstand the rigors of waterfowl hunting. The frame feels sturdy, and the camo fabric is resistant to tearing and fading. With proper care, the Invisi-Chair should last for many seasons.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple rinse with water is usually sufficient to remove mud and debris. Occasional lubrication of the leg adjustment mechanisms may be necessary to ensure smooth operation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair comes with storage bags for dead ducks and gear. This provides additional convenience for hunters. While there are limited customization options specifically designed for the Invisi-Chair, its universal design allows it to be used with a variety of aftermarket accessories.
Standard bungee cords and clips can be used to attach additional vegetation for enhanced concealment. Hunters can also add a small seat cushion for extra comfort during long sits.
Pros and Cons of Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo
Pros
- Excellent Concealment: The Optifade Marsh Camo and mesh top provide superior concealment in marsh environments.
- Adjustable Height: The adjustable legs allow for use in water depths up to 29 inches, keeping you high and dry.
- Mobile and Portable: At only 24 lbs, the chair is easy to transport and set up in various locations.
- Quick-Opening Canopy: The kick-out bar provides a fast and unobstructed shooting lane.
- Comfortable: Far more comfortable than sitting on a bucket or the ground for extended periods.
Cons
- Can be difficult to use without vertical cover.
- Price point may be a barrier for some buyers.
Who Should Buy Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo?
The Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo is perfect for waterfowl hunters who frequently hunt in shallow water environments with vertical cover, such as flooded cornfields, marshes, and cattail sloughs. It’s also well-suited for hunters who value mobility and ease of setup. This blind is ideal for those seeking a comfortable and concealed hunting experience.
Hunters who primarily hunt in open fields or deep water may not find the Invisi-Chair as useful. This is due to its design being specifically tailored for vertical cover and shallow water. A must-have accessory for the Invisi-Chair is a small seat cushion for added comfort during long hunts.
Conclusion on Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo
The Higdon Outdoors 31518 Invisi-Chair Optifade Marsh Camo is a well-designed and effective shallow water blind that offers a significant improvement over traditional hunting setups. While the price of $329.99 may seem steep, the chair’s comfort, concealment, and mobility justify the investment for serious waterfowl hunters.
I would highly recommend the Higdon Outdoors Invisi-Chair to anyone looking to enhance their hunting experience in shallow water environments. Its innovative design and durable construction make it a worthwhile addition to any waterfowl hunter’s arsenal. Step up your game, ditch the bucket, and get yourself an Invisi-Chair – you won’t regret it.