The Ultimate Guide for Saddle Hunting Comfort...

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Screen shot this comment so you have the checklist when you are setting up in your tree: 1) Setup Platform with slight downward angle 2) Adjust tether height between chin to eye level - If feeling too much weight on butt, Lower tether. If too much weight on feet, raise tether. 3) Adjust bridge length to 2/3 to 3/4 of total length - Lengthen if you are feeling pressure on hips 4) Set bridge to connect right in the middle of bridge loops to start - Slide up to feel more weight in top of saddle, lower to feel weight in bottom of saddle. Adjust until perfectly distributed. 5) Loosen belt slightly once set 6) Knee pads - Link in bio 7) Backband OR 2 panel saddle

[@harveyrousejr.2069]

Been saddle hunting since 2018. First Saddle was a Aero Hunter Kestrel. Now I have a Aero Hunter Merlin and a TX Custom Lonestar 2.0. All three saddles are top notch.

[@joshuaolsen8844]

I’ve only tried a saddle once but I could absolutely see the benefits.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Nothing beats the mobility of a saddle!

[@AsocPaladin0016]

Side note, I was cooking burgers while watching this and got distracted. Got some hockey pucks on the grill.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Hope dinner was salvageable

[@AsocPaladin0016]

@@NextStepOutdoors one was inedible but the rest were fine if not overdone.

[@AsocPaladin0016]

I run the latitude outdoors classic and absolutely love it. The only issues I’ve had comfort wise were on the super long sits but for 3-6 hours, it’s a lazy boy.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

It takes some practice but the all day sits are definitely possible!

[@AsocPaladin0016]

@@NextStepOutdoors knee pad will help I’m sure. I tried using gardening ones last year and they sucked.

[@devinwheat7964]

I started with the tethrd Phantom in 2021 and fell in love with saddle hunting. This season I bought the Tethrd Ultra lock and it is much more comfortable both to wear in to the woods and while up at hunting height. The yolk system takes the weight off the hips and make walking in with the weight of the ropes and effortlessl with no hip fatigue.

[@ryanmoran-il5uw]

Started hunting 2 seasons ago using a normal hanger stand. You got me into saddle hunting and got a method 2 from latitude as well. Excited to use it for the first time this coming up season.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

That is awesome man! I’m super pumped for you! It’s a lot of fun having unlimited mobility!

[@dylanroe7618]

This is great. Last season was my first in the saddle. Took a while to really find what was comfortable. A lot of trial and error.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

It takes some tinkering for sure. Helps to know HOW to tinker lol

[@rudy4256]

XOP edge saddle and platform. First time trying a saddle for hunting.

[@treymurphy6398]

Im a brand new hunter. I think im going straight into the saddle

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Not a bad move!

[@savagehilloutdoors]

Started using a saddle 4years ago, I love it! I’m running a Phantom XL and have done several mods over the years. Including making a new full bury bridge from amsteel. I wanted something that was able to girth hitch on the loops. Thanks for the videos you put out!!

[@sethprevette9172]

Have completed 4 seasons saddle hunting. No plans to go back to a stand. But I can't imagine they'll advance as much the next few years as they have the last few. First few of my seasons were with the Tethrd Mantis but upgraded to Cruzr Archon. My opinion the 2 panel sadddles are more comfortable in general. Never have had the opportunity to try any of the Latitude saddles. I use the Latitude SS sticks. I've tried all sort of sticks/steps and I think those Latitude sticks are a great bang for the buck. I've ran the Tethrd Predator platform all along and no plans to change that. Starting out I was always burning up by the time I was ready to hunt. A bulky pack on your back and heavy sticks were main reasons. I found the ease of ascending with a good set of sticks without buckles is key to being quick & quiet. I also found the Alpz Willow Creek pack to be a nice addition. I wear my saddle in and with the small pack I can take everything I need to the woods with me now that my gear is so light weight. That pack doesn't cover near as much of my back so I stay cooler. Never could have done that with the heavier climbing methods I had in the past.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Super valuable info! Thank you for sharing. Sounds like we run a pretty similar program! I’ve ran the predator for multiple seasons. Last year was my first using the x-wing from latitude. Really liked it. Small and loved all of the surfaces you could rest your feet on.

[@bloopus11]

one season in a Tuebor hemlock.... amazing ( Michigan made) love the video...this season im running the lonestar from latitude

[@jbarb4954]

Great video refresher. I have always used a Cruzr XC saddle, but recently tried the Latitude Lonestar. I couldn’t get comfortable so I returned for a Maverick. The Maverick is simple, light, and super comfortable. I use Tetherd Ones and an OOAL Big Bob One Stick for my platform. Keep your videos coming.

[@davysanders2441]

Nothing safer take youre time 8f youre fighting youre doing it wrong it's awesome once you figure out youre way don't be afraid to tray something a little adjustment is alot get saddle a little big that stops the pinch 😉

[@ianmurphy8633]

I just bought a buzzard roost saddle this winter. Will be my first year trying it!

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Good luck! Get some reps in before fall!

[@ronaldwalters6027]

Hello, I'M just starting out in saddle hunting, your tips was very helpful. Thanks😊

[@robgreer9726]

Just turning 63 and I’m tired of my hang on stands. Younger buddies are trying to get me to go to a saddle so I’m going to try the Latitude Methid 2 and likely going to be in one for next season. Thanks for all the good advice

[@6saturdaysaweek]

I’ve been using the latitude method 2 for two years. It’s can be very comfortable. Just make sure practice your set up before you go hunting. I have some saddle hunting how tos on my channel if you’re interested in a second view point.

[@SuperBat2374]

I’d recommend the JX3, it’s a saddle hybrid which is extremely comfortable and can still get the mobility of a traditional saddle

[@MrGrant440]

Great Video. I do have a ? For you. I see at the beginning of the video you are putting on your heavier jacket. I do that as well, but one thing I apparently haven’t mastered is, when you put the jacket on, are you just leaving it over your pockets, or what are your tricks to get that inside you bridge and pockets if that makes sense. Keep the videos coming.

[@Thenarrowpathoutdoorsmen]

Last year was my first season hunting from a saddle. I chose the tethrd phantom and to one stick. I was determined to stick with the one stick method no matter what. Even though I saw a lot of people didn’t like it. I practiced all summer. However all the practice doesn’t equal what you learn the first couple of sits. I researched a ton of tips for comfort and I eventually figure what I liked. All these tips from nextstepoutdoors are spot on to get you to that point.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Appreciate you saying that! I haven’t tried one sticking yet. I see the benefit but also seems like lots of fiddling around. Carrying 4 of the latitude sticks doesn’t bother me since they are so light and pack really well. Would you still recommend I give it a try?

[@Thenarrowpathoutdoorsmen]

I think when most people have a system down it’s hard to switch. I love one sticking but that being said I’ve never done it the other way. The cost of the rope and repel device is expensive so if you can try a buddy’s equipment that would be the way to go. One major benefit is how quick it is to repel down relatively quiet and get out of an area when you feel like deer are going to be coming in but shooting hours has ended. Not to mention I can act like Batman every time I hunt 😊

[@jeffreywadding7350]

I'm new to saddle hunting. I purchased a Method 2 back in Feb at Harrisburg Outdoor Show. Thanks for your videos. They are very informative and helpful as I practice this summer.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

I was at the show for a couple days working their booth. Do you remember seeing me or were you there a different day?

[@328am]

I lugged a 35lb climber around (not including bow & bag) for my first two years. This past year was my first season in a Custom Gear Modifications Sidewinder saddle and XOP for everything else. No complaints here!

[@NextStepOutdoors]

That sounds brutal! Your profile walking through the woods is probably half of what is was in addition to the weight savings!

[@Bryan-wc3et]

I’ve been saddle hunting over 30 years and your video is very informative. Yes a back band is crucial for really being comfortable. I also use a podium foot platform for a seat, so I’m actually sitting more than leaning by far. You also make a lot less movement. With a seat and a back band you can take a nap very easily on all day hunts safely. The podium platform folds up easily and quietly when I’m leaning. Don’t know why nobody else has thought of using a seat when saddle hunting. I also have 28 ladder stands on 5 farms and saddle hunt out of all of them. Most of them I use the seat as my foot platform therefore getting higher up than just sitting in the stand and having the mobility of the saddle. By the way when sitting on the podium I’m straddling the tree. A lot of the foot platforms would work just as well. Just some of my advice from 30 plus years.🏹🏹🦌🦃

[@NextStepOutdoors]

You’ve been saddle hunting nearly as long as I’ve been alive so I’ll graciously accept that advice! Super cool idea using the platform as a seat. I may have to explore that further….

[@shanefickes8714]

Please share a video or photo on how you do this! I can’t picture how you sit on the platform.

[@stevenblackwelder1986]

I'm running an older tethrd mantis that I've modified with an adjustable bridge. For a platform I have a standard tethrd predator and 5 tethrd One Sticks. For my tether I still rappel with 35 foot of canyon elite 9mm rope on a madrock safeguard.

[@BoxieOutdoors]

Great stuff. I have saddle hunted for the past 4 yrs with the Tethrd Mantis. I took advantage of their $100 buy back and will run their Ultralock SD this year.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

4 years in the saddle makes you a seasoned vet compared to most 😂

[@BoxieOutdoors]

@NextStepOutdoors well we will go with that. Lol, one thing I know is you never stop looking for upgrading your system or looking for ways to be more comfortable. There are times I am afraid of being too comfortable and falling asleep for hours. 😆

[@NextStepOutdoors]

100%. Always open to new ideas to be more efficient. Lately, less and less is changing because I feel super dialed tho.

[@redtrailninja]

This is good information for beginners. For those just starting, give it time. It takes a while to fine tune your setup and get comfortable. Once you do youre set! I run an original Anderson Treesling that i have heavily modified. I still use a stand on RARE occasions but, I'd never give up my saddle.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

That’s super cool! Sounds like you’ve been at it for a while!

[@ottisc]

Thanks again for another great video. New to saddle hunting this year and you sharing your experience is a great help. I really like the detail you provided in adjustments in the video for relieving pressure points.

[@kennethrogers1129]

Have a custom made soft saddle two panel similar Eberhart signature, but made a rigid saddle, very comfortable

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Did you make it yourself or order it)

[@chrisj2713]

If you want comfort get a dryad drey saddle. It's literally a hammock. It's super light and perfect for bigguns

[@EastTnCarbonSlinger]

Got the Trophyline covert pro. 2.0. Started at the end of last season. Been practicing all off season. Looking forward to archery season

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Good luck!!! I’m sure you will love it!

[@311Visit]

Nice vid. I'm interested in how folks are putting on heavy jackets once in the tree. I wear the least amount on the walk in and pack heavy outer layers to reduce sweating. I currently gear up pre climb at the base of the tree. I'd like to be able to safely put a jacket once I'm settled with all my gear. A cool down period after the walk and climb would be great.

[@glennflake5732]

You forgot about sitting sideways with should against tree. I like it better than facing tree with knees on tree. All else perfect. Good job. New subscriber. Dryad Dray 2 ❤

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Ahh that is a good one! Did that a ton before I started wearing knee pads! Definitely a good way to switch it up and rest.

[@christopheroleary2512]

Great video! Thank you for sharing this and helping out the community 😊

[@juanrodriguez-mu7ko]

Don’t own one, looking to get one. New at the bow and hunting thing learning everything so thanks.🙏🏽

[@NextStepOutdoors]

So excited for you!

[@SteveOpg22]

Another great and informative video!! I can’t wait to take my first deer out of my new saddle!

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Thanks buddy!!! I’m excited for you to get your first out of the saddle!

[@dieseljunky8505]

Best saddle videos out there.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

🙌🏻🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@thebasswhisperer5863]

Ive been saddle hunting for 5 years and still running a hawk saddle. I want to upgradeto a double panel saddle but not sure which one and they are pricey. Good video, goodluck this season hope you get some kills on cam this season brother Id love to see the contenst. If you could touch on FOC and if its worth the extra weight that would be cool!

[@bryanmoring4298]

I’ve ran an old climber that weighs probably 35lbs for years. I decided at 38yo I was ready for something lighter to get into the mobile hunting deal. I borrowed a tethrd phantom back in march and tried it out along with a one stick setup. The one stick/repel combo is pretty convenient I just couldn’t get comfortable and my hips were sore from it after trying it out for a weekend. I ended up ordering a hang on stand from xop. Idk if it was that particular saddle or all of them feel about the same.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

It definitely takes a little tinkering and getting used to. I don’t have much experience with the phantom. Glad you are atleast exploring options. That climber sounds like a doozy.

[@ronaldwalters6027]

Thanks for that, that was very helpful 😊

[@theamputeehunter2074]

I’m using the custom gear modification cobra saddle this will be my second year 😊

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Super cool! Sounds like a lot of people are in their first couple years.

[@pathfinder5804]

I use a CGM Cobra. It’s an expandable single panel that when stored on the walk in is only about 6in wide. Feels like a belt but can be a bit of futzing around to get it to stow correctly and actually think the Method 2 is quicker easier option. I think once in the tree the CGM is comfy as hell. Like all saddles you just have to play around with it preseason to figure out best settings. I don’t use knee pads I wear Kuiu guide pro pants with knee pads built in. They aren’t much but take the bite off the bark of the tree. I sit 90% of time in saddle and instead of big cumbersome knee pads I use my waist band for my pack as my knee pad. Took a minute to figure this out but I hang bag from my Ultimaider gear strap which I find to be a must. I get the bag hanging just right so my waist band is in proper level and it works like a charm and my pack is I perfect spot to give access to it. Back band is a must in my opinion too. I’m goin to be changing though I believe to a hybrid setup since I’ve switched to a traditional bow and shooting from saddle for me with trad bow isn’t comfortable at this point. Need my base to be my feet not my waist like it is saddle hunting. This was biggest change for me goin to a saddle but with a little practice with compound I got it but haven’t had same luck with the trad bow. Slight adjustment but same principles for comfort using hybrid setup as a saddle though and actually feels like more options.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Thanks for sharing your experience! Hybrid hunting is a cool concept as well. I could see myself trying it sometimes although even a light small stand defeats the purpose of saddle hunting to some degree. Best of both worlds tho! Good luck with the trad bow! Let me know if you get one!

[@pathfinder5804]

@@NextStepOutdoors Ya I really wasn’t gonna do it either but I just can’t shoot a trad bow good out of a saddle. So I’m just using the saddle now as my safety belt and some butt relief as these small stands don’t have comfortable seats. If I go to a micro stand permanently I will cut saddle out and use something like a Killdeer safety belt. I’m hoping after becoming a better shooter with the trad bow maybe I’ll be able to use it in a saddle eventually. Up here in Maine we do a ton of gun hunting and the saddle has ZERO drawbacks with a gun. The ability to hunt any tree with a saddle is a premium advantage though and wish I’d have switched to it 25yrs ago!!! Practice, practice practice and get it lined out and it’s as comfortable as most any stand!!!!!

[@TheBowhunter_Project]

I’ve been hybrid hunting with a latitude saddle and a .5. Switching entirely to the saddle this year though just to simplify things.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Sounds like an interesting concept!

[@TheBowhunter_Project]

@@NextStepOutdoors think i'll switch to one of those x-wings this year

[@MoMan.88]

Last year I as my first year saddle hunting, it’s unbelievable how much harder it is than it looks, I love it, but damn it’s not easy to get setup in the tree, especially when you get a bunch of clothes on in the winter!!

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Practice, practice, practice! Glad you stuck with it instead of giving up.

[@TidoubleM]

Would you be able to make a quick short or try to explain what you're using to bundle and secure your bridge prior to use?

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Yes! I’ll try to remember to do it this week!

[@zacharyolsen4303]

Great words of wisdom!

[@juanantoniotorres6218]

Hola. Good info. What is the name of your saddle, please ?

[@MarkJLarsonOutdoors]

Great tips! I just found your channel and can't wait to watch more! Good luck with everything my new friend!

[@NextStepOutdoors]

That means a lot! Good luck this fall!!!

[@jeffreywadding7350]

I was there Wed & Thurs evenings.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

We probably crossed paths then!

[@colthen5863]

Love my tethrd phantom

[@pdaddy2740]

What is the difference a benefits of a double panel saddle over a single and vice versa

[@robmechanic]

I started saddle hunting at the end of last season. Used it on 2 gun hunts. This will be my first archery season in my saddle. I went with the Buzzard Roost Saddle, Latitude sticks and Trophyline platform. Very happy with all three.

[@brianward5963]

I used a diy sit drag last year and considering pulling the trigger on a Buzzard Roos for this year.

[@robmechanic]

@@brianward5963 you will not be disappointed.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

That sounds like a solid setup!! Can’t go wrong with any of those products!

[@apexpredatoroutdoors8308]

I use a diy saddle made of paracord, and have been saddle hunting for about 30 years.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Have you tried any of the commercially available saddles? How does yours compare?

[@apexpredatoroutdoors8308]

@NextStepOutdoors no I have not tried any of them, but wager mine is lighter and far more comfortable. The lower portion extends from my butt to the back of my knees and the upper goes from my lumbar to half way up my back. The commercial saddles just don't offer that much area. I can also easily adjust either "panel" at any time , including while in the tree.

[@davidb1327]

Thanks for the info 👍🦌

[@NextStepOutdoors]

You bet!

[@toddsherman6560]

Good information! Thank you!!

[@ericplaisance267]

Thanks for the information.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Any time!

[@foxracer457]

Great video! Got my method 2 for Christmas and I’m beyond excited to get out and hunt in it at the end of August! What pack would you recommend? That’s the last thing I need before the season gets here. I’ve got the full size seeker platform, latitude SS sticks. Need a pack that’ll haul that stuff plus my cold weather gear for later in the season (firstlite solitude bibs and jacket) I don’t really care to get a huge frame pack as I don’t plan on packing a deer out. Thanks for the video and any advice you have on a pack! Good luck this season!

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Latitude is dropping two packs soon. One is more minimalist and the other sounds like what you’re looking for. I’m excited to see what they look like but I’ll likely be running the larger one too.

[@foxracer457]

@@NextStepOutdoorsawesome! Thank you for that info, I’ll be on the lookout for them.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

@@foxracer457 you got it bud!

[@andersnielsen83]

Nice info!!!

[@BryanHorn-nf7ib]

helix saddle, helix sticks, and year number one.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

@@BryanHorn-nf7ib I’ve not heard of that company. I’ll have to take a look.

[@fishingtheu.s.7482]

Xop full rut set up

[@swalch1618]

How do you hang your bow?

[@kennethrogers1129]

Yes on knee pads

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Must have. Idk how I went without them the first bunch of seasons I saddle hunted.

[@kipmcbride2681]

I currently run tethered grit system. I’ve only been out twice, but I can’t figure out why pinch is so tight on the hips. It does not have an adjustment on the loops where the bridge is connected every time I move the two loops on each side when you go to sit down or move, they go right back to the middlein my feet get fatigued. I’m still learning so any advice is greatly appreciated.

[@whitetaildna]

Solid! Dig these tips

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Appreciate it!

[@13earj3w]

Do you get a new one at the manufacturers recommendation?

[@NextStepOutdoors]

What do you mean

[@13earj3w]

@NextStepOutdoors I'm using a buddy's and it says do not use 5 years after manufacture date, which is coming up. It doesn't seem worn down, I figure it's just liability. I just started hunting and want to spend the money on other equipment opposed to a new saddle.

[@keithkolesar6874]

9:05 Do you wear a bino harness? I find that mine gets caught on my bridge.

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Yes I always do. I rarely have issues with it getting caught.

[@keithkolesar6874]

@@NextStepOutdoors I think I’m setting my tether rope too high and my bridge is getting caught on my bino harness which is KUIU

[@drewbuddy9522]

Hi , my fear was always that my factory TMA approved tether would fail “ snap “ under weight or if shock loaded in short free fall. What’s is your input on this matter?? Thanks

[@NextStepOutdoors]

I’m not concerned with it to be honest.

[@drewbuddy9522]

Ok thanks!!

[@joestancil2703]

I just bought the xop saddle kit first timer, I noticed the muscle in my thighs kill me

[@NextStepOutdoors]

Hmm weird. I haven’t experienced this. I’d play with tether height. Sounds like you you are holding up more weight than you should have to.

[@joestancil2703]

I bought the same kit and had the same problem in my thighs, it’s from climbing the sticks, after a few times using it, it will go away.

[@lucasowen9554]

Ist season with the tetherd phantom and tetherd predator

[@andywrites2141]

I'm 65 and thinking of trying saddle hunting. Am I foolish in my thinking?

[@NextStepOutdoors]

My dad is in his sixties and he travels with me out of state every year using the saddle.

[@rkurpiel]

I'm 71 and am considering a saddle but may just stick to my Summit Viper. It's a pain to carry but can't beat the comfort.

[@DroptineTrans]

15 yrs Guidios Webb

[@NastyN8thegreat2]

Well to be honest saddle hunting pretty much sucks I tried the method 2 and the apex canyon and After 3 or 4 hours I've had enough of hanging strongly perfer a climber or hang on

[@NextStepOutdoors]

I appreciate the honesty. It all comes down to figuring out what works best for you and your hunting style. For some people, the saddle is just a tool in the tool box for those super mobile quick sits.

[@NastyN8thegreat2]

@NextStepOutdoors yea I suppose but now with hangon stands weighing 6.5 -7 lbs you can 1 stick with an aider off your repel rope an it weighs less then a saddle kit an you can sit or stand an be comfy saddle hunting has been around since like the 70s it's jus a fade not really practical when you consider the other methods that are faster quiter more comfortable currently my plateform with a seat and my 1 rope repel with a madrock an 1 stick an aider I'm at 9.1 lbs 25 feet up a tee in like 3-4 mins the saddle is jus not for an all day hunt it's ok for 3 hours rut morning or late eve bedding area for a few hours but for all day sits I prefer to sit and not hang

[@NextStepOutdoors]

What tree stand are you running because those super small platform stands with the shorter posts don’t seem super comfortable

[@NastyN8thegreat2]

@NextStepOutdoors I have the new xop retro weighs 6.5 lbs seats very comfortable onsale rn for 340$ before this I had a .5 lw I like a small stand all I need is a good seat every now an then stand for a bit flip it back lean against the seat and tree it works very well

[@NastyN8thegreat2]

@NextStepOutdoors also depends on how tall you are I'm 6 foot 3 so a 22 inch seat hight is more then enough to be comfy also the seat itself is pretty thick I did take out some of the foam in it and add a thermal seat cushion pad I cut