Imagine this: You’re perched high in a tree, the woods are quiet, and you have a perfect view of where the deer will walk. That’s the dream of saddle hunting, but getting that perfect setup can feel like a puzzle. Have you ever stared at a wall of gear, wondering which straps, ropes, and platforms actually work well together? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when trying to build your first saddle hunting kit.
Choosing the right components for your kit is tough. You need safety, comfort, and portability, but mixing and matching pieces from different brands often leads to frustration or, worse, an unsafe setup. You don’t want to spend your hard-earned money on gear that doesn’t fit your needs or, even worse, leaves you dangling! This guide cuts through the confusion.
By the end of this post, you will know exactly what essential items make up a reliable, effective saddle hunting kit. We will break down the must-haves, explain why each piece matters, and help you select a combination that keeps you secure and focused on the hunt. Ready to build your ultimate mobile hunting setup? Let’s dive into the gear that will change how you hunt from the trees.
Table of Contents
Top Saddle Hunting Kits Recommendations
- Saddle harness and platform kit built for lightweight missions
- COMPLETE TREE SADDLE HUNTING SYSTEM KIT: This all-in-one saddle hunting kit includes everything you need to start: a 16"x12" aluminum hunting saddle platform, Gen1 hunting saddle, bridge, tether, and lineman’s rope. Whether you're upgrading or just starting out, this complete tree saddle hunting system is ready to go for any hunter.
- ULTRALIGHT TREE SADDLE PLATFORM FOR HUNTING: Engineered for mobility and grip, this tree saddle platform provides a 16"x12" standing area with angled edges and non-slip ridges for better foot placement. Part of the UIIHUNT saddle tree stand kit, it’s cast from lightweight aluminum (5.4 lbs) and fully adjustable for use on leaning trees.
- COMFORTABLE & ADJUSTABLE HUNTING SADDLE: The Gen1 tree saddle is ultra-light (20oz), breathable, and contours to your body for all-day sits. With a 33" adjustable bridge and removable components, it offers full 360° mobility—making it the centerpiece of your tree saddle hunting system kit.
- SAFETY-OPTIMIZED LINEMAN’S ROPE SYSTEM: The 8' lineman’s rope adds security to this saddle hunting kit, made from weather-resistant materials with a locking carabiner and Prusik knot for one-handed adjustment. Stay connected and safe while climbing—essential for any serious tree saddle hunting system.
- THE ULTIMATE HUNTING SADDLE KIT FOR RUN & GUN STYLE: From saddle to platform to rope, every part of this hunting saddle system kit is made for stealth, mobility, and easy setup. Ideal for mobile hunters who need a reliable, silent, and compact tree saddle kit they can trust in the field.
- ALL-IN-ONE COMPLETE TREE SADDLE HUNTING SYSTEM KIT: Everything you need in one complete tree saddle hunting system kit. The UIIHUNT Full Mobile Tree Saddle Hunting System Kit includes a 16"x12" aluminum saddle platform, Gen1 hunting saddle, 4-pack of climbing sticks, bridge, tether, and 2-pack of lineman’s ropes. This ultimate saddle hunting kit is designed for mobile hunters who demand a lightweight, compact, and reliable tree saddle hunting system.
- STABLE & ADJUSTABLE TREE SADDLE PLATFORM: The cast aluminum saddle tree stand kit platform offers a 16"x12" non-slip surface with angled ridges for secure foot placement. Featuring a built-in leveling system with 35° adjustability, this tree saddle hunting platform provides 360-degree mobility for all-day saddle hunting comfort and precision shooting from any angle.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE HUNTING SADDLE KIT: The Gen1 hunting saddle is the foundation of this hunting saddle system kit. Weighing only 20 oz, this ultralight, packable saddle is designed for long hours in the tree. With a contoured fit, adjustable bridge, and breathable materials, this saddle tree stand kit ensures silent performance and ergonomic support during every hunt.
- CLIMBING STICKS FOR TREE SADDLE KIT: This saddle hunting kit includes a 4-pack of lightweight climbing sticks (1.8 lbs each), crafted from durable cast aluminum. With fixed double steps and 15" spacing, these sticks provide safe and quiet climbing. Designed for compatibility with any tree saddle hunting system, they lock together for easy transport—ideal for any mobile tree saddle kit setup.
- SAFETY-FIRST DESIGN WITH DUAL LINEMAN'S ROPES: Our complete tree saddle hunting system includes two 8' lineman’s ropes made of weather-resistant high-tenacity polyester. Equipped with Prusik knots and locking carabiners, they allow one-handed adjustments while ascending. A critical component in every tree saddle kit or hunting saddle system kit, ensuring safe, hands-free climbs in the field.
- Saddle hunting system built for lightweight endeavors
- Full System Weight: 16.1lb (ropes and cam straps included)
- Includes: Invader Platform, M/L Mutant Saddle Harness, Bridge, Tether, Lineman's Belt, 2 Aluminum Twist Lock Carabiners, 2 Prusiks, 4 X2 Climbing Sticks, 4 Cam Straps, Striker Pack, 2 J-Hooks
- Designed to revolutionize your hunting experience, the FULLRUT combines precision engineering with unparalleled portability, ensuring you stay agile and stealthy in the field
- ALL-IN-ONE COMPLETE TREE SADDLE HUNTING SYSTEM KIT: Everything you need in one complete tree saddle hunting system kit. The UIIHUNT Full Mobile Tree Saddle Hunting System Kit includes a 16"x12" aluminum saddle platform, Gen2 hunting saddle, 4-pack of climbing sticks, bridge and 3-pack of tree stand safety rope. This ultimate saddle hunting kit is designed for mobile hunters who demand a lightweight, compact, and reliable tree saddle hunting system.
- STABLE & ADJUSTABLE TREE SADDLE PLATFORM: The cast aluminum saddle tree stand kit platform offers a 16"x12" non-slip surface with angled ridges for secure foot placement. Featuring a built-in leveling system with 35° adjustability, this tree saddle hunting platform provides 360-degree mobility for all-day saddle hunting comfort and precision shooting from any angle.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE HUNTING SADDLE KIT: The Gen2 hunting saddle is the foundation of this hunting saddle system kit. Weighing only 20 oz, this ultralight, packable saddle is designed for long hours in the tree. With a contoured fit, adjustable bridge, and breathable materials, this saddle tree stand kit ensures silent performance and ergonomic support during every hunt.
- CLIMBING STICKS FOR TREE SADDLE KIT: This saddle hunting kit includes a 4-pack of lightweight climbing sticks (1.8 lbs each), crafted from durable cast aluminum. With fixed double steps and 15" spacing, these sticks provide safe and quiet climbing. Designed for compatibility with any tree saddle hunting system, they lock together for easy transport—ideal for any mobile tree saddle kit setup.
- SAFETY-FIRST DESIGN WITH DUAL SAFETY ROPES: Our complete tree saddle hunting system includes tree stand safety rope made of weather-resistant high-tenacity polyester. Equipped with Prusik knots and locking carabiners, they allow one-handed adjustments while ascending. A critical component in every tree saddle kit or hunting saddle system kit, ensuring safe, hands-free climbs in the field.
- ALL-IN-ONE COMPLETE TREE SADDLE HUNTING SYSTEM KIT: Everything you need in one complete tree saddle hunting system kit. The UIIHUNT Full Mobile Tree Saddle Hunting System Kit includes a 12"x12" aluminum saddle platform, Gen1 hunting saddle, 4-pack of climbing sticks, bridge, tether, and 2-pack of lineman’s ropes. This ultimate saddle hunting kit is designed for mobile hunters who demand a lightweight, compact, and reliable tree saddle hunting system.
- STABLE & ADJUSTABLE TREE SADDLE PLATFORM: The cast aluminum saddle tree stand kit platform offers a 12"x12" non-slip surface with angled ridges for secure foot placement. Featuring a built-in leveling system with 35° adjustability, this tree saddle hunting platform provides 360-degree mobility for all-day saddle hunting comfort and precision shooting from any angle.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & COMFORTABLE HUNTING SADDLE KIT: The Gen1 hunting saddle is the foundation of this hunting saddle system kit. Weighing only 20 oz, this ultralight, packable saddle is designed for long hours in the tree. With a contoured fit, adjustable bridge, and breathable materials, this saddle tree stand kit ensures silent performance and ergonomic support during every hunt.
- CLIMBING STICKS FOR TREE SADDLE KIT: This saddle hunting kit includes a 4-pack of lightweight climbing sticks (1.8 lbs each), crafted from durable cast aluminum. With fixed double steps and 15" spacing, these sticks provide safe and quiet climbing. Designed for compatibility with any tree saddle hunting system, they lock together for easy transport—ideal for any mobile tree saddle kit setup.
- SAFETY-FIRST DESIGN WITH DUAL LINEMAN'S ROPES: Our complete tree saddle hunting system includes two 8' lineman’s ropes made of weather-resistant high-tenacity polyester. Equipped with Prusik knots and locking carabiners, they allow one-handed adjustments while ascending. A critical component in every tree saddle kit or hunting saddle system kit, ensuring safe, hands-free climbs in the field.
- Saddle harness and platform kit built for lightweight missions
- Includes everything you need to saddle hunt
- Bridge, tether, and lineman’s belt included
- Adjustable one size fits most saddle harness
- Hybrid harness can be used as a standard fall arrest system
- Adjustment: Fully Leveling Platform
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Saddle Hunting Kits
Saddle hunting is a fantastic way to hunt from a tree. It lets you move around more easily than a traditional stand. A saddle hunting kit has everything you need to get safely into a tree and hunt comfortably. This guide helps you pick the best kit for your needs.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a saddle hunting kit, certain features make your hunt better. Look closely at these parts:
1. The Saddle Itself
- Comfort: The saddle must fit well. Look for padded leg straps and a supportive waist belt. A good fit prevents chafing during long sits.
- Adjustability: Can you easily adjust the straps while wearing gloves? Quick adjustments are important when setting up fast.
- Weight Capacity: Ensure the saddle safely holds your weight plus your gear.
2. Climbing System
This system gets you up the tree. Most kits include climbing sticks or ropes.
- Climbing Sticks (if included): They should be lightweight and easy to attach to the tree. Look for sturdy steps that won’t slip.
- Rope and Ascenders: If your kit uses ropes, check the quality of the rope and the ease of use of the ascender (the device that grips the rope).
3. Suspension and Linesman Belts
These keep you safe while you work on the tree.
- Lineman’s Belt: This belt keeps you attached to the tree while you set up your main saddle. It must be strong and easy to clip on and off.
- Rope Quality: The suspension ropes that hold you in the saddle should be durable and rated for heavy loads.
Important Materials
The materials used determine how long your kit lasts and how much it weighs.
Strength and Weight
- Webbing and Straps: Look for strong materials like nylon or polyester webbing. These resist wear and tear.
- Metal Hardware: Carabiners and buckles should be made of strong aluminum or steel. Lightweight aluminum is great for hiking in, but make sure it is high quality.
- Saddle Fabric: The main body of the saddle often uses durable synthetic fabrics that resist snags from branches.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality matters for safety and comfort. Good quality gear lasts longer and performs better.
Improving Factors
- Stitching: Double or triple stitching on all load-bearing areas significantly improves strength.
- Quiet Operation: High-quality kits use materials that do not make loud noises when you move. Quiet gear keeps game unaware of your presence.
- Modular Design: Kits where you can swap out parts (like using different climbing sticks) offer better long-term value.
Reducing Factors
- Thin Straps: Very thin straps might cut into your body uncomfortably.
- Noisy Buckles: Plastic or poor-quality metal buckles often clack loudly when you move.
- Heavy Weight: If the entire kit weighs too much, hiking to your spot becomes tiring before the hunt even starts.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how and where you will use your kit.
Ease of Use
A good saddle kit should be intuitive. Can you set it up quickly in low light? Simple, color-coded ropes and easy-to-use buckles improve the user experience greatly. If the setup takes too long, you might miss your morning window.
Use Cases
- Backcountry Hunting: If you hike miles to your spot, prioritize lightweight and compact gear.
- Local Woods: If you only walk a short distance, you can afford a slightly heavier, more robust kit focused purely on comfort for long sits.
- Tree Variety: If you hunt many different kinds of trees, choose a saddle with versatile attachment points that work on straight or slightly angled trunks.
Saddle Hunting Kit FAQs
Q: What is the biggest advantage of a saddle over a tree stand?
A: Saddles let you move 360 degrees around the tree. This gives you a much better shooting angle.
Q: Do I need extra ropes if I buy a full kit?
A: Most good kits include the necessary ropes for setup and safety. Always check the product description to be sure.
Q: How long does it take to learn to use a saddle?
A: Most people learn the basic setup in a few practice sessions on the ground. Mastering climbing takes a little more practice.
Q: Are saddle kits safe for beginners?
A: Yes, if you use the lineman’s belt correctly while setting up. Safety comes from proper use of the included fall restraint gear.
Q: What is the lineman’s belt for?
A: The lineman’s belt keeps you attached to the tree at all times while you are climbing or setting up your saddle, preventing falls.
Q: Should I buy a kit or separate pieces?
A: Kits save money and ensure all parts are compatible. If you are new, a kit is usually the best choice.
Q: How much should a quality kit weigh?
A: For serious backcountry hunters, look for kits under 10 pounds. Lighter is usually better for hiking.
Q: Can I use my existing climbing sticks with a new saddle?
A: Often, yes. Most modern saddle systems connect to universal climbing sticks, but confirm the attachment methods.
Q: What should I do if a strap seems too tight?
A: Stop and readjust immediately. Comfort is key. If you cannot adjust it easily, the quality might be low, or you need practice adjusting it.
Q: How often should I check my gear for wear?
A: Check all ropes, stitching, and hardware before every season, and after any hard use. Look for fraying or cracks.