First Thoughts on the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT promises comfort during long hours spent waiting in a treestand. The NEP brand isn’t necessarily a household name in the hunting world, but sometimes the best gear comes from unexpected places. This particular model, the “INFUSION 13″X14″X3″ RT-EDGE,” seems like a simple yet potentially effective solution to an age-old problem: a sore backside.
My quest for the perfect treestand seat began with a brutal lesson learned on a late-season deer hunt. I spent eight hours perched twenty feet up, my cheap, flimsy seat offering little more than psychological comfort. I needed something that would provide genuine support and allow me to focus on the hunt, not the pain.
Upon unboxing the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT, I was immediately struck by its simplicity. The design is straightforward, with no unnecessary frills. The initial impression is that it’s lightweight, which is crucial for packing into remote hunting locations. The build quality appears solid enough, although a more thorough examination would be needed to assess its long-term durability.
Compared to other treestand seats I’ve used, such as the Millennium Treestands G100 or the Summit Treestands Deluxe Seat, the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT appeared less bulky. My previous experiences with similar products have been mixed; some offered decent padding but were cumbersome to carry, while others were lightweight but provided minimal comfort. I chose the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT hoping for a sweet spot between portability and comfort at a reasonable price of $32.49.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It seemed like a basic, no-nonsense product that could deliver on its promise of a more comfortable hunting experience. The true test, however, would be in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT came during an early-season bow hunt for whitetail deer. I hunted a stand overlooking a heavily used deer trail in a hardwood forest. The weather was mild, but the ground was damp from recent rainfall.
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT proved easy to attach to my treestand. The rectangular design fit snugly against the existing metal seat. While I did not test it in “wet” conditions, the material seemed durable enough that moisture would not drastically impact its integrity.
The cushion provided a noticeable improvement in comfort compared to the bare metal seat. I didn’t need a long time to get used to it; after settling in, the cushion quickly became unnoticeable (in a good way), allowing me to focus on my surroundings instead of my discomfort. There were no immediate issues or surprises after my first use, which lasted approximately four hours.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full hunting season of use, the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT has held up surprisingly well. I’ve used it in a variety of conditions, from mild early-season weather to colder late-season hunts with light snowfall. The cushion has maintained its shape and padding, showing minimal signs of wear and tear.
The durability has been better than expected. While the outer material isn’t the toughest on the market, it hasn’t ripped or torn despite being exposed to branches, thorns, and other hazards in the woods. Cleaning the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT is relatively easy; a damp cloth and a mild detergent are usually sufficient to remove dirt and mud.
Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper treestand seats, the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT has significantly outperformed them in terms of both comfort and durability. While it doesn’t offer the luxurious comfort of some high-end models, it provides a substantial improvement over basic seats at a very affordable price point.
Breaking Down the Features of NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT
Specifications
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT (INFUSION 13″X14″X3″ RT-EDGE) features the following specifications:
- Dimensions: 13 inches x 14 inches x 3 inches. This size offers a good balance between comfort and portability.
- Shape: Rectangular with rounded edges (RT-EDGE). This shape allows for versatile mounting on various treestand models.
- Material: The exact material composition isn’t explicitly stated, but appears to be a durable, water-resistant foam padding encased in a woven fabric. The density of the foam seems to be the most important factor in determining support.
- Weight: The weight is not specified, but based on handling, it’s estimated to be under 1 pound. This makes it extremely easy to carry along with other hunting gear.
- Attachment: Designed to be secured to a treestand seat using straps or other user-supplied methods (straps not included). Securing the cushion properly is the most crucial aspect of safety and usability.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the comfort, portability, and overall effectiveness of the product. The size and shape determine how well the cushion fits on different treestand models, while the material and padding affect its comfort and durability. A lightweight and durable design is essential for any gear intended for hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT performs its primary job – providing a more comfortable seating surface – exceptionally well. The 3-inch thick padding offers ample cushioning for extended sits. This allows the hunter to focus on the task at hand rather than constantly shifting and fidgeting to alleviate discomfort.
The main strength of this product is its simplicity and effectiveness. There are no complex features or adjustments to worry about. It’s a straightforward solution to a common problem. The only real weakness is the lack of included attachment straps.
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT meets and exceeds expectations for a product in its price range. It delivers a noticeable improvement in comfort and has proven to be more durable than anticipated.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT is simple and functional. The rectangular shape allows it to be easily adapted to most treestand seats. The weight is negligible, making it easy to carry and install.
The build quality is decent for the price point. While the materials aren’t top-of-the-line, they appear to be reasonably durable. The comfort in use is surprisingly good, providing a significant upgrade over a bare metal seat.
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT is extremely user-friendly. There’s no learning curve involved; simply attach it to the treestand seat and you’re ready to go.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on a full season of use, the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT appears to be reasonably durable. It should last for several seasons with proper care. The longevity will depend on the frequency of use and the conditions it’s exposed to.
Maintaining the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT is easy. Simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and mud. A mild detergent can be used for more stubborn stains.
Accessories and Customization Options
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT does not come with any accessories included.
There are limited customization options available. You could potentially add your own attachment straps or a waterproof cover for added protection.
Pros and Cons of NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT
Pros
- Significant improvement in comfort compared to bare treestand seats. This is the primary reason to purchase this product.
- Lightweight and portable. Easy to carry along with other hunting gear.
- Durable construction for the price point. Holds up well to regular use.
- Simple and easy to use. No complicated setup or adjustments required.
- Affordable price. Excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Lacks included attachment straps. Requires user to provide their own.
- Material is water-resistant, but not fully waterproof. Prolonged exposure to heavy rain may cause some absorption.
Who Should Buy NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT?
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT is perfect for hunters who spend long hours in a treestand and are looking for a comfortable and affordable seating solution. It’s also ideal for budget-conscious hunters who want to upgrade their existing treestand without breaking the bank.
Hunters who require a fully waterproof seat or prefer a seat with built-in attachment straps might want to consider other options.
Must-have accessories or modifications include a set of durable attachment straps (e.g., nylon webbing straps with buckles) to securely fasten the cushion to the treestand seat.
Conclusion on NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT
The NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT is a simple yet effective product that delivers on its promise of a more comfortable hunting experience. For a price of $32.49, it offers excellent value for the money. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it provides a substantial improvement in comfort and has proven to be surprisingly durable.
I would personally recommend the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT to any hunter looking for an affordable and reliable treestand seat cushion. It’s a worthwhile investment that can make those long hours in the stand much more enjoyable. Don’t let a sore backside ruin your hunt. Get the NEP CUSHION/TREESTAND SEAT and experience the difference.