Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL Review

The Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL Made a Bold First Impression

As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless innovations come and go. However, the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL immediately struck me as something different. Tethrd has clearly put serious thought into addressing the common pain points of saddle hunting, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

My back has taken a beating over the years from countless hours spent in treestands, so I needed a saddle that offered superior comfort and support. Maneuvering gear quietly and efficiently is crucial for success, and I was hoping the LockDown’s hauler system would deliver.

Unboxing the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL, I was immediately impressed by the robust construction and thoughtful design. The materials felt premium, and the stitching was clean and reinforced. The integrated skeleton frame in the LockDown Haulers looked like a game-changer for gear access. Compared to my previous saddle hunting setup, which was lighter but lacked crucial organizational features, the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL felt like a significant upgrade. While I have tested lighter saddles from brands like Sitka, the Tethrd offered a level of comfort and organization that was noticeably absent. Another saddle I tested previously from Guido’s Web was ultimately too bulky. I chose the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL because it seemed to strike the perfect balance between comfort, organization, and packability.

My initial impression was one of excitement tempered by a slight concern about the added weight and bulk. Was this the ultimate saddle hunting platform, or would the added features come at the cost of mobility and stealth? Only time in the field would tell.

Real-World Testing: Putting Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL on a recent whitetail hunt in the Appalachian foothills of Pennsylvania. The terrain was steep and unforgiving. Conditions were damp and cold, with temperatures hovering just above freezing.

The first few hours in the saddle were a revelation. The UtiliBridge and Comfort Channels allowed me to dial in the perfect fit and support, even on a leaning tree. The one-handed adjustments were incredibly intuitive, and I was able to maintain my shooting position without fumbling around. Accessing my rangefinder and wind checker from the LockDown Haulers was smooth and silent, a stark contrast to my previous experiences with noisy and disorganized gear pouches. The saddle allowed me to stay in the field longer and more comfortably. However, I did notice the extra weight of the saddle when hiking to my hunting spot.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of regular use, the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL continues to impress. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, even after being subjected to brush, mud, and inclement weather.

Cleaning the saddle is a breeze. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and debris. Compared to my old saddle, which required constant adjustments and often left me feeling stiff and sore, the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL has been a game-changer. The level of comfort and support it provides is unmatched.

Breaking Down the Features of Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL

Specifications

• LockDown Expandable Saddle: Designed for maximum comfort with an adjustable fit. This allows for extended hunts without discomfort.
• UtiliBridge: Provides nearly 40 inches of on-the-fly adjustability. This allows hunters to fine-tune their position for optimal comfort and shooting angles.
• Comfort Channels: Offers seven different high, medium, and low support settings. One-handed adjustments give you full control over where you need support most, adapting to leaning trees and awkward positions.
• 2x LockDown Haulers with IFS (Integrated Skeleton Frame): Enables incredibly simple one-handed operation for accessing gear. The integrated skeleton frame keeps gear organized and easily accessible.
• LockDown Modular Yoke: Bomb-proof yoke system ensures the saddle stays in place, even when loaded with gear. This allows hunters to carry more weight without sacrificing stability.
• 2 sets of LockDown Links: Connect the saddle to the tree tether, providing a secure and adjustable connection. This ensures a safe and comfortable hunting experience.
• XL = +38″ waist: Designed to accommodate hunters with larger waist sizes. This ensures a comfortable and secure fit for a wider range of users.

These specifications are important because they directly address the key challenges of saddle hunting. Namely comfort, organization, and stability. The adjustability of the UtiliBridge and Comfort Channels allows for a customized fit, while the LockDown Haulers keep gear readily accessible. The modular yoke ensures the saddle stays securely in place.

Performance & Functionality

The Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL performs exceptionally well in the field. The comfort is unmatched. The LockDown Haulers provide convenient and silent access to essential gear.

The strengths of the saddle lie in its adjustability, comfort, and organizational capabilities. A potential weakness is its weight, which may be a concern for hunters who prioritize ultra-light setups. The Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL meets and exceeds my expectations for a high-end saddle hunting platform.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL is excellent. The materials are durable and well-stitched, and the saddle feels solid and well-constructed.

The design is user-friendly. The adjustments are intuitive, and the LockDown Haulers are easy to operate with one hand. There is a slight learning curve to mastering all the adjustments and features, but the effort is well worth it.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL is built to last. The materials are resistant to wear and tear.

Maintenance is simple. The saddle can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL comes with the necessary components for saddle hunting, including the saddle itself, UtiliBridge, Comfort Channels, LockDown Haulers, Modular Yoke, and LockDown Links.

The saddle is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as different tree tethers and lineman’s belts. The LockDown Haulers can also be customized with additional pouches and accessories.

Pros and Cons of Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL

Who Should Buy Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL?

• Perfect for: Hunters who prioritize comfort and organization, especially those who spend long hours in the tree. This is also great for those who want a more stable and secure platform.
• Who should skip this product? Hunters who prioritize ultra-light setups and are willing to sacrifice some comfort and organization to save weight. Those on a tight budget might find the price prohibitive.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality tree tether and lineman’s belt are essential for safe and effective saddle hunting.

Conclusion on Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL

The Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL is a top-tier saddle hunting platform that delivers exceptional comfort, organization, and stability. While the weight and price may be a barrier for some, the benefits it provides are well worth the investment for serious saddle hunters.

The price is justified by the quality of materials, thoughtful design, and superior performance. I would highly recommend the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL to anyone looking to upgrade their saddle hunting setup. Take your hunting to the next level with the Tethrd LockDown Saddle XL!