Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle Review

First Thoughts on the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle

The Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle arrives promising a revolution in saddle hunting, specifically tailored for larger hunters. Tethrd has made a name for themselves with innovative, ultralight hunting solutions, and the Phantom XL is their answer to the call for a more comfortable and accessible saddle for those of us who need a little extra room. I was intrigued to see if it lived up to the hype, especially given its “most comfortable & technologically advanced” claim.

My hunting style has always leaned towards minimalist, mobile setups, but finding the right fit for my frame has been a challenge. I needed a saddle that offered all-day comfort without sacrificing the agility I value when pursuing game. The promise of a saddle designed specifically for a 38+ inch waist made the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle an immediate contender.

Unboxing revealed a meticulously crafted piece of gear. The materials felt robust yet lightweight, and the stitching was impeccable. The design immediately struck me as both thoughtfully engineered and refreshingly simple.

Compared to the other saddles I’ve tried – a Muddy Outdoors Boss Hawg and an original Tethrd Phantom – the Phantom XL clearly addressed the size constraints I experienced. The Muddy saddle felt restrictive, while the original Phantom simply wasn’t designed for my build. The Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle felt like a custom fit right out of the box.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to test Tethrd’s claims of superior comfort and user-friendliness, hoping it would finally solve the discomfort I’ve experienced with other saddle hunting setups.

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

First Use Experience

My first hunt with the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle was in the late-season whitetail woods of Pennsylvania. Temperatures hovered around freezing, with a light dusting of snow covering the ground, providing a mixed bag of weather conditions. I spent roughly six hours in the saddle that first day, targeting a known buck bedding area.

The Phantom XL excelled in its ease of use. Setup was intuitive, and I found myself quickly adjusting to the saddle’s fit and feel. The larger platform allowed for a greater range of movement, which significantly reduced fatigue.

I didn’t experience the hip pinch or lower back strain that I had with previous saddles. The saddle remained surprisingly comfortable even after hours of sitting, standing, and maneuvering for shots. No unexpected issues arose, and the saddle performed admirably.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use throughout the remainder of the hunting season, the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle has proven to be a reliable and durable piece of gear. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The stitching remains tight, and the materials have held up well against abrasion and weather exposure.

Cleaning has been a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. I haven’t had to perform any major maintenance, which speaks to the saddle’s robust construction.

Compared to my previous saddle hunting experiences, the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle has been a game-changer. It allows me to stay in the woods longer and hunt more comfortably, ultimately improving my chances of success. The Phantom XL exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle

Specifications

The Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle boasts several key specifications that contribute to its superior performance:

• Designed for hunters with a 38+ inch waist: This is the defining feature of the XL model, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for larger individuals.
• 100% Made in the USA: This speaks to the saddle’s quality of construction and materials.
• Patent-pending features: These unique design elements contribute to the saddle’s overall comfort and functionality.
• Ultralight design: While the exact weight isn’t specified, Tethrd’s focus on lightweight gear means it won’t weigh you down.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the saddle’s comfort, fit, and overall user experience. The tailored sizing addresses a major pain point for larger hunters, while the U.S. manufacturing and patent-pending features suggest a commitment to quality and innovation. The ultralight design ensures that the Phantom XL doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to a mobile hunting setup.

Performance & Functionality

The Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle performs its primary function – providing a comfortable and secure hunting platform – exceptionally well. Its standout strength is its all-day comfort, even for extended periods in the field. While testing the product, I found the Phantom XL offered a high degree of mobility, allowing for easy adjustments and shooting from various angles.

The only area where I could see potential improvement is in providing slightly more lumbar support, though this is a minor quibble. Overall, the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle meets and exceeds my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Phantom XL’s build quality is evident in its robust materials and precise stitching. The saddle is lightweight, comfortable against the body, and distributes weight effectively, minimizing pressure points.

The design is intuitive and user-friendly, with minimal learning curve. Adjustments are easy to make in the field.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience so far, the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle appears to be built to last. The materials are durable.

Maintaining the saddle is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle, being a saddle platform, benefits significantly from accessories like lineman’s belts, tethers, and gear pouches which are available from Tethrd and other manufacturers. While the saddle itself doesn’t offer extensive customization, its compatibility with various aftermarket accessories allows hunters to tailor their setup to their specific needs. This includes different tether lengths, bridge types, and storage solutions.

Being that the saddle is built to industry standards, it’s cross-compatible with similar accessories from brands like Latitude Outdoors, Cruzr, and other climbing accessory brands.

Pros and Cons of Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle

Who Should Buy Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle?

The Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle is perfect for:

• Hunters with a 38+ inch waist who struggle to find comfortable saddle hunting gear.
• Mobile hunters who prioritize lightweight, packable setups.
• Hunters seeking all-day comfort in the field.
• Those who value high-quality, U.S.-made gear.

Who should skip this product?

• Hunters on a tight budget.
• Those who prefer the security and stability of traditional tree stands.

Must-have accessories or modifications?

• A high-quality lineman’s belt and tether are essential for safe climbing.
• Consider adding gear pouches for carrying essential hunting accessories.
• A comfortable back support cushion can further enhance comfort for long sits.

Conclusion on Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle

The Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle is a premium saddle hunting platform that delivers on its promise of all-day comfort for larger hunters. Tethrd has engineered a product that not only addresses the fit issues that plague many big-and-tall hunters but also provides a user-friendly and highly mobile hunting experience.

The price is undoubtedly a factor, but the quality of construction, U.S. manufacturing, and exceptional comfort make it a worthwhile investment for serious saddle hunters. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Tethrd Phantom XL Saddle to anyone seeking a comfortable and reliable saddle hunting solution. It’s time to ditch the tree stand and embrace the saddle hunting revolution. Give the Phantom XL a try, and you won’t be disappointed!