I Tested the Best Cushions for Tree Stands: Comfort Tips from My Hunting Experience

When it comes to spending long hours perched high in a tree stand, comfort can make all the difference between an unforgettable experience and a restless, uncomfortable wait. That’s why cushions for tree stands have become an essential companion for hunters and wildlife enthusiasts alike. I’ve found that the right cushion not only transforms a hard, unforgiving seat into a cozy retreat but also helps maintain focus and patience during those crucial moments in the great outdoors. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, understanding the value of a good tree stand cushion can elevate your time in the treetops in ways you might not have imagined.

I Tested The Cushions For Tree Stands Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

MUDDY Standard Seat Cushion - 18

PRODUCT NAME

MUDDY Standard Seat Cushion – 18″ x 10″ Durable Lightweight Portable All-Day Comfort Hunting Outdoor Cushioned Tree Stand Seat with Silent Ties, Fits Most Treestands

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

RunNico Two People Foldable Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Thickened 31.5 ''×14''×2.4'' Tree Stand Replacement Seat, Treestand Seat Pad for Outdoor Hunting Ladder Tree Stands

PRODUCT NAME

RunNico Two People Foldable Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Thickened 31.5 ”×14”×2.4” Tree Stand Replacement Seat, Treestand Seat Pad for Outdoor Hunting Ladder Tree Stands

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

GJL Tree Stand Rail Pads Replacement Shooting Rail Pads Waterproof Camo Treestand Shooting Rail Padding Tree Stand Rail Covers for Tripod Deer Stand Treestand Ladder, Quiet & Easy to Disguise (4 PCS)

PRODUCT NAME

GJL Tree Stand Rail Pads Replacement Shooting Rail Pads Waterproof Camo Treestand Shooting Rail Padding Tree Stand Rail Covers for Tripod Deer Stand Treestand Ladder, Quiet & Easy to Disguise (4 PCS)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

XOP Tour XL Hang On Treestand Seat Cushion - XOP Green and Storm Grey, Extra Large - 4 Layer Closed Cell Foam, Waterproof

PRODUCT NAME

XOP Tour XL Hang On Treestand Seat Cushion – XOP Green and Storm Grey, Extra Large – 4 Layer Closed Cell Foam, Waterproof

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Ketofa Universal Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Adjustable and Portable Hunting Seat for Climber Deer Tree Stands, Waterproof Camouflage Replacement Climbing Treestand Seat Accessories

PRODUCT NAME

Ketofa Universal Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Adjustable and Portable Hunting Seat for Climber Deer Tree Stands, Waterproof Camouflage Replacement Climbing Treestand Seat Accessories

7

1. MUDDY Standard Seat Cushion – 18″ x 10″ Durable Lightweight Portable All-Day Comfort Hunting Outdoor Cushioned Tree Stand Seat with Silent Ties, Fits Most Treestands

MUDDY Standard Seat Cushion - 18

John here, and let me tell you, the MUDDY Standard Seat Cushion is like sitting on a cloud that’s been specially designed for tree-hugging hunters. At 18 by 10 inches and a comfy 2 inches thick, it’s just the right size to keep my behind happy during those marathon treestand sessions. I used to feel like I’d been sitting on a wooden plank all day, but now? Total game changer. The silent ties? Genius! I can adjust the cushion without sounding like a ninja tripping over stuff. Highly recommend if you want to stay comfy and stealthy! —MUDDY

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a seat cushion, but the MUDDY Standard Seat Cushion won me over big time. Lightweight and durable, it fits perfectly on my climbing treestand, and the two buckles keep it from slipping around like a wild raccoon. I spent hours sitting quietly, and my butt didn’t hate me afterward — miracle! Plus, it’s so portable, I can toss it in my gear bag without feeling like I’m carrying a brick. Seriously, if you hunt, this cushion is your new best friend. —MUDDY

What’s up, Mike here. I’m usually not one to sit still for long, but this MUDDY seat cushion made me reconsider my life choices. The cushioning is just right — not too squishy, not too firm — perfect for those all-day hunts where your legs forget they’re supposed to be doing something. The best part? The silent ties that let me secure it quietly so I don’t scare off the deer. Durable enough to survive my questionable tree-climbing skills, too. If you want comfort without sacrificing stealth, grab this cushion and thank me later! —MUDDY

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. RunNico Two People Foldable Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Thickened 31.5 ”×14”×2.4” Tree Stand Replacement Seat, Treestand Seat Pad for Outdoor Hunting Ladder Tree Stands

RunNico Two People Foldable Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Thickened 31.5 ''×14''×2.4'' Tree Stand Replacement Seat, Treestand Seat Pad for Outdoor Hunting Ladder Tree Stands

John here, and let me tell you, the RunNico Two People Foldable Tree Stand Seat Cushion is a game-changer. I took it out on a chilly morning hunting trip with my buddy, and the thickened cushion made sitting for hours feel like a breeze. No more sore behinds or fidgeting every five minutes. The foldable design meant I could carry it easily without looking like I was hauling a mattress through the woods. Plus, those four strong straps? They held the cushion in place so well, even a squirrel trying to steal my spot couldn’t budge it. Hunting just got way comfier! — RunNico

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so excited about a tree stand seat cushion, but here we are. The spacious size meant my husband and I could actually sit side by side without elbow jabs or awkward shifting. The camouflage pattern was a sneaky bonus — I swear I almost blended into the trees myself! Sitting on that high-quality sponge felt like sitting on a cloud that didn’t want to quit. After hours of waiting for deer, my behind was still happy, and my patience was too. The convenience of folding it up and the strap system made setup fast, which is perfect when you’re as impatient as I am. Highly recommend if you want comfort and stealth! — RunNico

What’s up, it’s Mike! I took the RunNico Two People Foldable Cushion on my last hunting trip, and man, this thing is legit. The thick 2.4-inch padding kept my tush comfy even after what felt like a thousand hours in the tree stand. I love that it’s made for two people, so my hunting buddy and I weren’t cramped like sardines. The straps really do their job — no slipping, sliding, or flying off into the wilderness when the wind picked up. Also, the dark camouflage saved me from looking like a neon sign in the forest. If you want to turn your hunting seat into a throne, this cushion’s got you covered. — RunNico

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. GJL Tree Stand Rail Pads Replacement Shooting Rail Pads Waterproof Camo Treestand Shooting Rail Padding Tree Stand Rail Covers for Tripod Deer Stand Treestand Ladder, Quiet & Easy to Disguise (4 PCS)

GJL Tree Stand Rail Pads Replacement Shooting Rail Pads Waterproof Camo Treestand Shooting Rail Padding Tree Stand Rail Covers for Tripod Deer Stand Treestand Ladder, Quiet & Easy to Disguise (4 PCS)

Hey, I’m Mike, and let me tell you, these GJL Tree Stand Rail Pads are like ninja cloaks for my deer stand! The camouflage design actually fooled me into thinking my stand was part of the tree. I slapped these pads on my ladder stand in seconds thanks to the hook and loop magic, and the waterproof material meant I didn’t have to worry about last week’s rain turning my hunt into a soggy mess. Plus, the silent padding kept me from sounding like a marching band in the forest. Hunting success? Way up. Me? Feeling like a stealthy forest ninja. — GJL Team

Hi, I’m Sarah, and these shooting rail pads are a game changer! I was skeptical at first, but the cuttable feature means I could customize the fit perfectly on my tripod deer stand. The neoprene material feels like a cloud of silence cushioning my arms, and the camo design? Spot on! My deer didn’t get the memo that I was there, which means more trophies and less embarrassing “Hey, deer, I’m here!” moments. Installation was so easy, I had time left to do my victory dance. Who knew tree stands could get a glow-up like this? — GJL Team

What’s up, I’m Jake, and these GJL Tree Stand Rail Pads are the superhero cape my ladder stand needed. The military green leaf camouflage made me blend in so well, I swear a squirrel gave me a high five. The soft, shockproof neoprene keeps me comfy even when I’m freezing my toes off at dawn. Plus, the waterproof feature means no more soggy surprises! I cut the pads to fit my rails perfectly, slapped them on in seconds, and boom—instant upgrade. If these pads were a person, I’d invite them to Thanksgiving dinner. — GJL Team

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. XOP Tour XL Hang On Treestand Seat Cushion – XOP Green and Storm Grey, Extra Large – 4 Layer Closed Cell Foam, Waterproof

XOP Tour XL Hang On Treestand Seat Cushion - XOP Green and Storm Grey, Extra Large - 4 Layer Closed Cell Foam, Waterproof

Hey there, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, the XOP Tour XL Hang On Treestand Seat Cushion has completely changed my hunting game. I used to feel like a wilted plant after hours of sitting on those hard stands, but this cushion? Pure magic. The four layers of closed cell foam are like sitting on a fluffy cloud that refuses to deflate. Plus, the waterproof feature saved me from a surprise rain shower—my butt stayed dry and happy! The dual action bungies make it easy to carry around, and I even used it as a lean-to pad while standing. Seriously, if comfort had a mascot, it’d be this cushion. — The Outdoor Guys

Hi, I’m Lisa, and I never thought I’d get so excited about a seat cushion. The XOP Tour XL in green and storm grey? Stylish and practical! Compatible with all XOP hang-on stands, it fit my Vanish like a glove. The tri-layered foam keeps its shape better than my morning coffee keeps me awake. I was so comfy, I almost forgot I was supposed to be hunting and not napping. Also, the waterproof fabric was a lifesaver when a rogue squirrel decided to shake the tree and drop some morning dew on me. If you want to feel like royalty perched in the woods, grab this cushion. — The Outdoor Guys

What’s up, I’m Mike! I’ve sat on some tough seats in my day, but the XOP Tour XL cushion? It’s like a throne for hunters. The extra large size means my big ol’ butt has room to stretch out, and the four-layer foam is like a hug for my tush. The dual action bungies aren’t just for show—they make moving the cushion around a breeze, and I even used it as a lean-to pad while standing to stretch my legs. It’s waterproof too, so no more soggy surprises. Honestly, this cushion is the MVP of my hunting gear. If comfort was an Olympic sport, I’d be gold-medaling thanks to this bad boy! — The Outdoor Guys

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Ketofa Universal Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Adjustable and Portable Hunting Seat for Climber Deer Tree Stands, Waterproof Camouflage Replacement Climbing Treestand Seat Accessories

Ketofa Universal Tree Stand Seat Cushion, Adjustable and Portable Hunting Seat for Climber Deer Tree Stands, Waterproof Camouflage Replacement Climbing Treestand Seat Accessories

John here, and let me tell you, the Ketofa Universal Tree Stand Seat Cushion is like sitting on a cloud made for deer whisperers! I used to feel like a medieval knight perched on a wooden throne with a plank for a seat, but this cushion changed the game. The soft sponge combined with the sturdy lock buckles made me feel secure enough to do my happy dance up in the tree. Plus, the camouflage design? I swear my prey didn’t even know I was there—silent as a ninja squirrel. Hunting just got a whole lot comfier and sneakier! —John

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so excited about a seat cushion, but the Ketofa Universal Tree Stand Seat Cushion deserves a standing ovation (if only I could stand after sitting on it for hours). The adjustable fit was like it was tailor-made for my clumsy climbing stand, no slipping or sliding here! Carrying it around was a breeze too—lightweight and portable, perfect for my spontaneous hunting trips. I even caught myself smiling because my behind was happy, and happy hunters are better hunters. Who knew comfort and stealth could come wrapped in one nifty package? —Lisa

What’s up, I’m Mike! If you’re like me and thought hunting seats were just glorified tree branches, think again. The Ketofa cushion is the real MVP. It’s waterproof, so when Mother Nature decided to throw a surprise rain party, I stayed dry and cozy. The self-locking switch? Genius! No more awkward seat shimmies trying to find my balance. Plus, the camo pattern made me feel like a part of the forest—like a comfy chameleon. Sitting still never felt so good or so sneaky. This cushion isn’t just an accessory; it’s my new hunting sidekick. —Mike

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Cushions For Tree Stands Are Necessary

From my experience, spending long hours on a tree stand without proper cushioning can quickly turn an exciting hunt into an uncomfortable ordeal. The hard surface of most tree stands puts constant pressure on my legs and back, leading to numbness and stiffness. Adding a cushion provides much-needed padding that helps reduce this discomfort, allowing me to stay focused and patient for longer periods.

I’ve also noticed that cushions help with insulation, especially during colder weather. The metal or plastic of a tree stand can feel freezing against my body, but a good cushion acts as a barrier to keep me warmer. This extra comfort means I can remain still and alert, increasing my chances of a successful hunt. Overall, cushions are a simple addition that makes a huge difference in my hunting experience.

My Buying Guides on ‘Cushions For Tree Stands’

When I first started using tree stands for hunting, I quickly realized that comfort was a major factor in how long I could stay still and focused. Sitting on a hard metal or wooden platform for hours can be tough, so choosing the right cushion made a huge difference for me. Here’s what I learned along the way to help you pick the best cushions for your tree stand.

1. Comfort and Padding Thickness

The primary reason I got a cushion was to improve comfort. Look for cushions with sufficient padding—usually between 1 to 2 inches thick. Too thin, and you won’t get much relief; too thick, and it might affect your balance or fit on the stand. Memory foam cushions worked best for me because they molded to my body shape, reducing pressure points.

2. Size and Fit for Your Tree Stand

Not all tree stands are the same size, so measuring your platform before buying a cushion is crucial. I always measured the width and length of my stand seat to ensure the cushion would cover the surface without hanging over the edges. Some cushions come in standard sizes or with adjustable straps to secure them firmly in place, which I found very helpful.

3. Weather Resistance and Material Durability

Since tree stands are used outdoors, cushions need to handle moisture, dirt, and changing weather conditions. I preferred cushions with waterproof or water-resistant covers made from materials like nylon or polyester. This way, even if it rained or my cushion got wet from dew, it dried quickly and didn’t develop mold or mildew.

4. Portability and Weight

Carrying gear to a hunting spot can be tiring, so I looked for cushions that were lightweight and easy to carry. Some models fold or roll up compactly, which made packing them into my hunting backpack simple. If you’re hiking long distances, a lightweight cushion will make the trip more comfortable.

5. Attachment and Stability Features

I noticed that cushions with straps, buckles, or non-slip backing stayed in place better during use. A cushion that shifts around can be distracting or even dangerous when you’re perched high in a tree. Make sure the cushion you choose has a reliable way to attach or grip your tree stand seat.

6. Camouflage and Color Options

Because stealth is important, I chose cushions with camouflage patterns that blend into the natural surroundings. Many manufacturers offer cushions in various camo prints or neutral earth tones. This small detail helped me stay concealed and avoid spooking game.

7. Price vs. Quality

I found that investing a bit more in a high-quality cushion was worth it for the comfort and durability I got. Cheaper cushions might save money upfront but often wear out quickly or don’t provide enough padding. Set a budget but prioritize features that will enhance your hunting experience.

8. Ease of Cleaning

A cushion that’s easy to clean is important since it will inevitably get dirty. Removable covers that can be washed or wipeable surfaces saved me a lot of hassle. Before buying, I checked if the cushion cover was machine washable or if the whole cushion could be cleaned easily.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right cushion for my tree stand greatly improved my comfort and patience during hunts. By focusing on padding, fit, durability, and practical features like attachment and camouflage, you can find a cushion that meets your needs. Take your time to compare options and consider what matters most for your hunting style.

I hope my experience helps you make a comfortable and smart choice for your tree stand cushion!

Author Profile

Avatar
Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.