Written By John VanDerLaan
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We hunt hundreds of hours every year out of climbing tree stands and we have tested every climber on the market for comfort, reliability, ease of use, size, weight, portability and other factors in order to help you find the right one for your situation.
Below we will share our top picks for best overall, most comfortable climbing stand, best for big guys, best for bowhunting, best lightweight, best for youth and more.
Our choice for the best climbing tree stand is hands down the Summit Viper SD. We have literally tested every climbing stand on the market and none of them are as reliable, comfortable and easy to use as the summit viper.
There are many more climbing stands out there that are really good, so we have reviewed them all below.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Summit Viper SD
- Extremely comfortable for all day hunts.
- Roomy 20" x 36" platform.
- Sections nest together for easy transport with the included backpack straps.
- Simple stand up sit down climbing.
- Super lightweight at only 20 pounds.
The Summit Viper SD is the ultimate climber for bow hunters and gun hunters alike. We have used every climbing stand on the Market and the staff here at DeerHuntingGuide.net overwhelming choose the Summit Viper.
Most Comfortable: Summit Goliath
- The most comfortable climbing tree stand.
- Roomy 20" x 36" platform.
- The seat is wider than the Summit Viper.
- Simple stand up sit down climbing.
- 350 pound weight limit for bigger hunters.
The Summit Goliath is very similar to the Viper, but with a wider seat and a higher weight limit. The tradeoff is that it is slightly heavier. It is truly like sitting in an easy chair in the tree. Once you use a Summit climber, you will have a hard time hunting out of any other brand.
Best For Bow Hunting: Summit Open Shot
- Super lightweight at only 15 pounds.
- Roomy 20" x 32" platform.
- No wrap around bar to interfere with bow shots.
- Fold up foam seat.
- 300 pound weight limit.
The Summit Open Shot is the climbing stand of choice for some of our bow hunters on staff because they do not like the wrap around bar on other climbers. The open front design allows you to shoot your bow from a seated position without interference.
Why Should You Trust Us?
We are a team made up of real hunters. We are outdoor writers, contributors, field testers and pro staff that put each of these climbing tree stands through hard use over multiple hunting seasons and then rate and review them based on our findings.
If you have done a google search for the best climbing tree stands, then you have seen numerous pages that were not written by hunters. Some of these pages don’t even make sense!
They are written by internet marketers trying to sell you on the tree stand that they make the most money from.
Don’t be fooled!
We are real hunters and actually use all of the products that we rate and review.
Below you will find in-depth reviews along with links to the best prices that you will find on the internet.
How We Chose The Best Climbing Tree Stands
These are the exact climbing stands that we use every season. Some of these stands are better than others for different situations, such as larger hunters, or better for bow hunting, etc.
Our staff got together with all of the climbers that we use and picked the best stand for each category, based on their actual usage of the stand.
You can see our findings below.
Top Rated Climbing Tree Stands According To Our Testing
Best Climbing Tree Stands: Reviews And Recommendations
Best Overall: Summit Treestands Viper SD
Here at DeerHuntingGuide.net, we do a lot of deer hunting out of climbing tree stands and our staff uses the Summit Viper SD over all other climbers 10 to 1.
Let's take a look at why:
The Summit Viper SD is lightweight, weighing in at just 20 pounds.
It is also super comfortable with the hanging style cushioned seat with backrest and armrests. It is like sitting in an easy chair!
Let's face it, comfort is king when you are trying to stay in a tree stand all day during the rut!
Let's take a look at some of the features of the Summit Viper SD.
Features:
- Roomy 20" X 36" Platform Frame
- Summit-Lokt aluminum construction
- QuickDraw cable retention system
- Deadmetal noise dampening technology
- Umbilical Cord for connecting upper and lower pieces
- Cushioned armrests
- Padded Backpack Straps
- Padded climbing seat bar
- 300 pound weight capacity
- Full-body harness included
- RapidClimb stirrups
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a video showing the features of the Summit Viper SD.
Most Comfortable: Summit Goliath SD
The Summit Goliath is very similar to the Viper except that it is slightly bigger, making it the most comfortable option on the market.
Keep in mind that the bigger size, even though it is the most comfortable, comes with trade offs.
It is slightly heavier at 21 pounds and the larger frame is a little more difficult to backpack long distances, but if you are going to sit all day, this would be our choice.
The platform frame measures 20 inches by 36 inches, which is the same size as the Viper.
The Seat frame size is wider than the Viper at 24.5 inches wide compared to 22.5 inches wide on the Viper.
The Goliath also carries a 350 pound weight limit as compared to 300 pounds for the Viper.
You would think that it would be a good selection for big guys and it is, but we have a better choice for big guys below.
When you are trying to outsmart that buck, time on stand is one of the main factors in your success.
The best way to increase your time on stand is to hunt out of the most comfortable tree stand that you can find.
That is the Summit Goliath SD
Let's take a look at some of the features.
Features:
- Extra Wide 24.5" X 37.5" Seat Frame
- Summit-Lokt aluminum construction
- QuickDraw cable retention system
- Deadmetal noise dampening technology
- Umbilical Cord for connecting upper and lower pieces
- Super comfortable suspended foam-padded seat with backrest
- Cushioned armrests
- Padded Backpack Straps
- Padded climbing seat bar
- 350 pound weight capacity
- Full-body harness included
- RapidClimb stirrups
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a video about the Summit Goliath SD.
Best Budget: Summit Viper Steel
The Summit Viper Steel is almost the same as the Viper SD, except as the name implies, it is made out of steel instead of aluminum so that it can be offered at a lower price point.
The price is significantly lower than the Viper SD, which is why it is our Editor's choice best budget climbing tree stand.
While it is less expensive, that comes at a cost. It is much heavier than the Viper SD, which makes it much more difficult to transport long distances and more difficult to set up.
The Viper Steel weighs in at 29 pounds, compared to 20 pounds for the Viper SD.
Features:
- 20" X 34.5" Platform Frame
- Summit-Lokt aluminum construction
- QuickDraw cable retention system
- Deadmetal noise dampening technology
- Brown powder coated finish for rust protection
- Umbilical Cord for connecting upper and lower pieces
- Cushioned armrests
- Padded Backpack Straps
- Padded climbing seat bar
- 300 pound weight capacity
- RapidClimb stirrups
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Best For Big Guys: Summit Titan SD
If you are a larger guy and need more room, comfort and weight capacity, then check out our Editor's choice best for big guys, the Summit Titan SD.
This is a big stand and as a result it is heavier than the other top climber tree stands, weighing in at 25 pounds and has a 350 pound weight limit.
The aluminum 6 Channel Platform Frame measures 21 inches wide by 38.5 inches deep and the seat frame measures 24.5 inches wide by 39.5 inches deep.
The size is great if you are a big guy looking for comfort, but it can be very difficult for a smaller guy to transport.
We have some big guys on staff here at DeerHuntingGuide.net and they all use the Summit Titan SD as there go to Climber Stand.
We love the wrap around bar for rifle and crossbow hunting. The bar provides a stable rest, which increases the effective range of a crossbow or firearm.
Features:
- Aluminum 6-Channel Platform Frame with new Dead Metal, Sound Deadening (SD) Technology
- QuickDraw cable retention system
- Huge Platform and seat frame
- Umbilical Cord for connecting upper and lower pieces
- Zippered cushion armrests
- Padded Backpack Straps
- Padded climbing seat bar
- 350 pound weight capacity
- RapidClimb stirrups
- Four-Point FAS with safety strap and attached SRS strap included
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a short video about the Titan SD.
Best Lightweight: Lone Wolf Crossover Climber
Lone Wolf is known for hang on tree stands, but they also make a super lightweight climbing tree stand. The Lone Wolf Crossover Climber is the lightest climbing tree stand available today. It is from the D'Aquisto series at Lone Wolf Custom Gear.
Unlike the Lone Wolf Assault climber, the patent pending Crossover is a hybrid design that can be utilized with a sit and climb method or a hand climber.
Not only did they replicate the Assault, but they improved on it as well, by making it lighter and quieter.
It weighs in at only 11.5 pounds and has a 250 pound weight limit.
The seat is nice, but it is not as comfortable as the Summit.
It also packs down to a super thin 1 7/8" profile for transporting.
It is the lightest and easiest to transport climber that we tested
Features:
- Crossover technology (both hand climbing & sit and climbing style)
- 25" X 16.5" platform
- 17" X 13" adjustable seat
- Moon Seat Design
- Super quiet rubber traction belts for climbing
- Backpack straps, bungee strap and stabilizing straps included
- Hinge Compaction System
- Cam Action fastening system
- 250 pound weight capacity
- 6-point Fall Arrest System (tested to meet industry standards)
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a great video showing how to use the Lone Wolf Crossover Climber.
Best For Bow Hunting: Summit Open Shot SD
Any of the climbing tree stands that we have reviewed on this page can be used for bowhunting, but one complaint that we sometimes hear from bowhunter is that the wrap around bar on most of the top rated climbing tree stands can interfere with your ability to shoot a compound bow sitting down.
A lot of those bowhunters choose the Summit Open Shot.
It is super lightweight at only 15 pounds for packing deep into the woods. This makes it a great stand for public land so you can get away from the crowds.
The open front design allows complete archery shot making range of motion, while the fold up seat allows you to stand flush with the tree and provides a cushion for leaning.
The platform frame measures 20 inches wide by 32 inches deep and the seat frame measures 19 inches wide by 20 inches deep.
Keep in mind that this is a hand climber and is more difficult than a stand up, sit down climber.
Features:
- Aluminum 4-Channel Platform Frame with Dead Metal, Sound Deadening (SD) Technology
- Foam seat pad
- RapidClimb® Stirrups
- QuickDraw cable retention system
- Backpack straps and utility strap included
- Summit umbilical Cord for connecting upper and lower pieces
- Coated steel climbing cables
- 300 pound weight capacity
- Four-Point FAS (harness) with safety strap and attached SRS strap included
RELATED: Off Season Tree Stand Maintenance
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a video showing setup and climbing with the Summit Open Shot.
Best For Crossbow And Rifle Hunting: OL'MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS
When we asked all of our pro staff members what was their favorite climbing tree stand for crossbow hunting, we were surprised at how many times the OL MAN TREESTANDS Alumalite CTS came up for discussion.
When we asked why, the answers ranged from the fact that it is lightweight aluminum and easy to climb with, but the one thing that kept coming up was that the front bar is just the right height for a perfect rest for shooting a crossbow when it is in the upright position.
RELATED: Best Hunting Crossbows Tested With Reviews
One of the great features of this stand is that the front bar can be put in the down position and used as a footrest if you prefer.
This makes it a great choice for bowhunting as well.
It is definitely a lightweight stand at only 21 pounds and it has a 300 pound weight capacity.
The platform measures 18 inches by 32 inches and the seat is 21 inches wide.
The seat is not as comfortable as the seats on the Summit climbers and it does not have a backrest.
Ol MAN Treestands has quite the history and we are proud to include the Alumalite CTS in our best climber stand roundup.
Features:
- Super strong aluminum oval tubing
- Patented ComforTechTM seating
- Pivoting spreader arms
- Rubber coated steel cables
- Straps secure top and bottom pieces
- 300 pound weight capacity
What We Like
What We Don't Like
Here's a really informative video showing how to set up and climb with the Ol Man Alumalite CTS.
Climbing Stand Comparison Chart
Model | Weight | Platform Size | Weight Limit | PRICE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall - Summit Viper SD | 20lbs | 20" x 36" | 300lbs | |
| Most Comfortable - Summit Goliath | 21lbs | 20" x 36" | 350lbs | |
| Best Budget - Summit Viper Steel | 29lbs | 20" x 34.5" | 300lbs | |
| Best For Big Guys - Summit Titan | 25lbs | 20" x 38.5" | 350lbs | |
| Best Lightweight - Lone Wolf Crossover | 11.5bs | 16.5" x 25" | 250lbs | |
| Best For Bow Hunting - Summit Open Shot | 15lbs | 20" x 32" | 300lbs | |
| Best For Crossbow Hunting - Ol Man Alumalite CTS | 21lbs | 18" x 32" | 300lbs |
What to look for when buying a Climbing Tree Stand
RELATED: How To Keep Your Feet Warm While Hunting
- Comfort - Our number one criteria in determining the best climbing tree stand is comfort! If you’re not comfortable, you are not going to last long in that stand. The key to comfort in any tree stand is a large bottom platform and a comfortable seat with backrest and cushioned armrests, which is why we chose the Summit Viper HD as the best overall. It is as close to sitting in an easy chair as you will find in a tree stand! Also consider a tree stand umbrella if you are going to be hunting in bad weather. Don't overlook your hunting clothes for helping you to remain comfortable in your stand. Quality hunting pants and a jacket will go a long way towards increasing your comfort level.
- Ease of Use - Let's face it, if the stand is not easy to use it is going to be collecting dust in the garage. Most of the top rated climbers utilize a sit down, stand up climbing method that is very easy to master with a little practice.
- Weight - How much the stand weighs should be a consideration, but there is a caveat. You shouldn’t just pick the lightest climbing stand that you can find because there will be a trade off for comfort. We have found it better to find a climbing stand that is comfortable first and a weight that we still find easy to backpack to and from the tree.
- Weight Capacity - Most of the climbing tree stands that we have reviewed have a weight capacity of 300 pounds. There are a few that go up to 350 pounds. Keep in mind that the weight capacity is for hunter and gear, that includes weapon, backpack, clothing, binoculars and everything that you have in the tree with you, so plan appropriately.
- Noise - Be sure to consider how quiet the climbing stand is. Obviously it is impossible to be completely quiet, but most manufacturers take steps in design and manufacturing to reduce the amount of noise the stand makes during setup, climbing and use.
- Design - The specific design of a climbing stand can make or break it for some hunters. For instance, some hunters love the wrap-around padded bar on the seat section, while some bowhunters can’t stand that and prefer an open front design, especially hunters that use recurve bows, which are much longer than compound bows.
- Ease of Transport - The best climbing tree stands have comfortable backpack straps that make transporting the stand very easy. The top and bottom pieces mesh together and then you simply put the straps over your shoulders and you can effortlessly move them for miles. This is one of the instances where the weight of the stand needs to be considered.
- Is it Easy to Shoot Standing Up? - Many hunters like to shoot standing up, so you need to consider how easy and quiet it is to stand up and move the seat out of the way. The best climbing tree stands have a seat that silently slides or folds out of the way so that you can stand and shoot without being detected.
- Safety - Climbing tree stands had a bad reputation when they first came out, but today’s climbers are very different from your fathers climber. Advances in design and safety have solved all of the issues with safety. All climbing tree stands now have a cord to secure the top and bottom sections (Summit calls it the Umbilical Cord), so that if the bottom section does get away from you, you simply pull it back up by the cord. Designs have also improved on how the stand bites into the tree, virtually eliminating the stand sliding, even in the rain. Of course, it goes without saying that you should never use a tree stand without wearing a hunting safety harness.
Final Thoughts
We have shared with you our top picks for best climbing tree stand along with in depth reviews so that you have the knowledge to choose which one is right for you, or as a gift for the hunter in your life.
Our top choice is the Summit Viper Sd and once you try one, you will know why.
If you are still on the fence and don't know which one is for you, try going through our buyers guide and frequently asked questions section below.
There are both advantages and disadvantages to using climbing tree stands. I love the mobility of them. You can move them easily and quickly, but you can only use them on certain size trees that are relatively straight.
To learn more about the different tree stands for hunting visit our best tree stand page.
These are the exact climbers that I, and every member of the DeerHuntingGuide.net staff uses to hunt deer every season.
You can not go wrong with any of them.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the best height for a climber tree stand?
The best height for a climber tree stand is between fifteen and twenty feet. Any lower than that and you begin to lose the advantages of hunting from a tree stand such as getting above your prey's line of sight and giving you a better vantage point. Any higher than that and you begin to have difficulty with shot angle. This is especially true with bowhunting and crossbow hunting. The higher you climb, the smaller the vitals target becomes.
Are climbing tree stands worth it?
Yes climbing tree stands are worth it. They are the most comfortable tree stands that you can buy and they are also easy to move around from tree to tree making them extremely versatile. They are easy to use and quick to set up. They do not need additional gear like climbing sticks in order to get up the tree.
What should be worn at all times while climbing a tree or in a tree stand?
A lineman's belt and safety harness should be worn at all times while climbing a tree or in a tree stand.
How do I hide my climbing stand?
You hide your climbing stand by attaching evergreen boughs to the stand with zip ties, taking care to not block shooting lanes. Another great way to hide your climber is to climb a multi trunked tree. A tree with 3 or 4 trunks can be excellent camouflage for your climber. You will need to use a climbing stick to get your climber onto one of the trunks high enough off the ground. Then climb up the tree so that you are inside of the multi trunks and can hide behind them. This ideal for calling deer and remaining undetected
