XOP Mutant Saddle Review: Is It Worth It?

Saddle hunting has exploded in popularity over the last few years, transforming from a niche subculture of DIY enthusiasts into a mainstream method for mobile hunters. If you have been dragging heavy climbers or hanging lock-on stands your whole life, the freedom of a saddle system is incredibly appealing. However, the price of entry has historically been a major barrier. High-end saddles often cost upwards of $400 just for the harness, leaving many hunters on the fence. Enter the XOP Mutant Saddle, a product designed to break that barrier without breaking the bank.

In this review, I am going to walk you through everything you need to know about the XOP Mutant, from its comfort on long sits to the quality of the included ropes. I will analyze whether this budget-friendly option cuts too many corners or if it is the best value in the mobile hunting market today. Whether you are a first-time saddle hunter looking to dip your toes in the water or a veteran looking for a backup rig, this guide will help you decide if the Mutant belongs in your pack.

For those looking to buy, I highly recommend purchasing directly from the XOP Outdoors official website or major outdoor retailers like Scheels or Amazon to ensure you are getting the latest version with updated bridge materials and valid warranty support.

My Experience With The XOP Mutant Saddle

I have been hunting from a saddle for several seasons now, and I admit I was initially skeptical of the XOP Mutant. My primary rig has always been one of the premium brands that costs nearly double what XOP charges. In the world of life-support equipment, “budget” is a scary word. You are hanging twenty feet up a tree by a piece of fabric and a rope; you want to know it is going to hold. But after hearing the buzz about XOP’s improved quality control and design, I decided to pick one up and put it through the wringer during the late archery season.

When the box arrived, the first thing I noticed was the completeness of the kit.

Most saddle companies sell you the saddle, then the tether, then the lineman’s belt, and then the carabiners all separately.

XOP throws it all in one box. As I pulled the Mutant out, the mesh material felt surprisingly robust.

It didn’t feel cheap or plasticky like some entry-level harnesses I have handled in the past.

The “Nanocore” bridge was interesting—it is a continuous loop system that looked durable, though slightly stiffer than the Amsteel bridges I was used to.

My first hang was in a gnarly oak tree with plenty of lean. Walking in, the saddle was comfortable enough. It is not the most minimalist design on the market—it has a bit more bulk than a single-panel ultralight saddle—but it didn’t impede my walking. The leg loops stayed in place thanks to the G-hooks, which is a massive plus because nothing is more annoying than having leg straps slapping your thighs as you hike.

Once I was at hunting height, I settled in. The mesh seat is static, meaning it doesn’t expand or pleat like some other designs. At first, I was worried this would cause “hip pinch,” where the saddle squeezes your hips together, cutting off circulation. To my surprise, the fit was quite forgiving. I sat for about four hours that first evening, and while I did have to adjust the bridge length a few times to find the sweet spot, I didn’t experience any numbing pain. The mesh breathes incredibly well, which I can see being a huge advantage during those early September hunts when the humidity is high.

However, it wasn’t all perfect. The included ropes are heavy. They are safe and rated, absolutely, but they lack the premium feel of high-end climbing ropes. The carabiners are also a bit clunky. They work fine, but they are heavy and have a distinct metallic “clank” if you aren’t careful. I ended up wrapping them in stealth tape immediately after that first hunt because the noise was stressing me out in the quiet woods.

The bridge adjustment system is simple but effective. I liked that I could lengthen it to lean further back or shorten it for a more upright sitting position. During a long sit, shifting your weight is key to staying comfortable, and the Mutant allowed for that. I also appreciated the rows of MOLLE webbing. I was able to attach my dump pouch and platform easily without having to rig up any custom solutions.

Overall, my experience was positive, especially considering the price point. It felt safe, secure, and comfortable enough to get the job done. It didn’t have the “cloud-like” comfort of a $400 two-panel saddle, but it also didn’t leave me limping back to the truck. For a hunter who wants a grab-and-go system that is ready to hunt right out of the box, the Mutant impressed me more than I expected.

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Pros Of XOP Mutant Saddle

When evaluating the XOP Mutant, it is clear that value is its biggest strength, but it offers more than just a low price tag. Here are the specific advantages that make this saddle a strong contender.

• Incredible Value for a Complete Kit: The most significant pro is undoubtedly the cost-to-feature ratio. Most saddle systems require you to piece together your setup à la carte, which can quickly drive the price over $500. The XOP Mutant typically comes as a “ready-to-hunt” package that includes the saddle, a lineman’s rope, a tether rope, and carabiners. For a beginner, this eliminates the confusion of trying to figure out which ropes and connectors to buy. You can open the box and literally climb a tree ten minutes later (after practicing at ground level, of course), making it the most accessible entry point into saddle hunting on the market.
• Breathable and Durable Mesh Construction: The seat is constructed from a heavy-duty, breathable mesh that excels in early-season hunting. If you hunt in the South or during early bow season in the Midwest, you know how sweaty a neoprene or canvas saddle can get. The Mutant allows air to flow right through the seat, keeping your core temperature regulated and preventing that swampy feeling. Despite being mesh, it is incredibly tough and resistant to snagging on briars or bark. It holds its shape well under load, providing a consistent cup for your backside without sagging over time.
• User-Friendly Adjustment System: XOP kept the adjustments simple, which is a huge benefit for new users who might be overwhelmed by complex knot systems. The bridge is adjustable, allowing you to change the pressure points on your hips and back easily. The leg loops use simple G-hooks or quick-connect buckles (depending on the version) that are fast to secure and release. The waist belt is robust and doesn’t slip, which is a common complaint with cheaper saddles. This simplicity means there is less to fiddle with in the dark, allowing you to focus on the hunt rather than your gear.
• Robust MOLLE Attachment Points: The saddle features two rows of standard MOLLE loops running along the waist and back. This makes it universally compatible with almost any aftermarket accessory, pouch, or holster. You can easily attach a dump pouch for your ropes, a holder for your bow, or even a back band for extra support. The webbing is stiff enough that attached gear doesn’t flop around loosely as you walk. This modularity allows you to customize the saddle to your specific climbing method, whether you use sticks, steps, or a one-sticking method.
• Safety Ratings and Testing: Despite being a budget option, XOP does not skimp on safety certifications. The saddle is ASTM tested and rated for up to 350 pounds, giving you peace of mind that it can handle the stress of a fall. XOP is a reputable company with a history in the treestand industry, unlike random unbranded saddles you might find on eBay. Knowing that a legitimate engineering team designed and tested the product provides a level of trust that is essential when you are hanging from a tree.

Cons Of XOP Mutant Saddle

While the Mutant is a great value, corners had to be cut somewhere to reach that price point. You need to be aware of these limitations before you buy to ensure they don’t ruin your hunt.

• Included Ropes are Heavy and Bulky: The ropes that come with the kit are functional and safe, but they are far from premium. They are thicker and heavier than the specialized 8mm or 9mm ropes used by high-end brands. This extra bulk takes up more space in your dump pouch and adds weight to your walk-in. The carabiners are standard steel or heavy aluminum screw-gates that are perfectly safe but heavy and prone to making metallic noise. Many users end up upgrading the ropes and carabiners eventually, which eats into the initial cost savings.
• Comfort Limitations for Long Sits: As a single-panel mesh saddle, it lacks the customization of a two-panel system or a pleated design. After about 3 or 4 hours, you may start to feel pressure points on your hips or lower thighs, commonly known as “hip pinch.” Because the shape is static, you cannot expand the seat to cradle your knees or lower back as effectively as more expensive models. While it is fine for a morning or evening sit, an all-day rut hunt might leave you shifting around constantly to get comfortable. You may need to invest in a separate back band or “recliners” to alleviate this pressure for longer durations.
• Hardware Noise Potential: The metal buckles and D-rings on the saddle are not silenced with rubber coatings or stealth strips out of the box. If you accidentally clang your climbing stick or release aid against the bridge loops, it makes a loud, unnatural sound that can spook deer. You will need to spend some time “silencing” your gear with hockey tape or stealth tape before taking it into the woods. Premium saddles often come with silenced hardware or Amsteel loops to prevent this issue entirely.
• Bulky Profile When Walking: Compared to ultralight saddles that fold up into the size of a grapefruit, the Mutant is a bit more substantial. The structured mesh and stiff webbing mean it feels a bit like wearing a climbing harness combined with a diaper while walking. It doesn’t disappear on your body the way a Tethrd Phantom or a Cruzr XC does. If you have a long hike in steep terrain, you might find the bulk slightly annoying, although it is still vastly superior to carrying a climber.

Maintenance Tips For XOP Mutant Saddle

Your life depends on your saddle. Treating it like a piece of clothing rather than a life-support device is a dangerous mistake. Here is how to keep your Mutant safe and functional for years.

• Inspect the Bridge Before Every Hunt: The bridge (the rope that connects you to the tree tether) takes the most stress of any component. You must inspect the Nanocore bridge for any signs of fraying, cuts, or abrasion before you leave the ground. Pay special attention to the areas where the bridge rubs against the carabiner or the saddle loops. If you see any broken fibers or significant fuzzing, replace the bridge immediately. Do not try to burn or tape over a damaged bridge; buy a certified replacement.
• Hand Wash Only with Mild Soap: Your saddle will eventually smell like sweat, swamp water, and deer attractant. Never put your saddle in a washing machine or dryer; the mechanical agitation and high heat can damage the stitching and weaken the structural integrity of the webbing. Fill a bucket with lukewarm water and a scent-free, mild detergent (like Dead Down Wind or even plain Dawn). Submerge the saddle and agitate it gently by hand to remove dirt and oils. Rinse thoroughly with cold water to ensure no soap residue remains.
• Air Dry Away from Direct Sunlight: UV radiation is the silent killer of nylon and polyester webbing. After washing, or if your saddle gets wet from rain, hang it up to dry in a cool, shaded area like a garage or basement. Do not hang it outside in the blazing sun to dry, and never place it near a heater or fire. UV damage is often invisible until the fabric fails, so keeping it out of the sun when not in use is critical for longevity. Store it in a scent-proof bag or tote bin during the off-season to protect it from moisture and rodents.
• Lubricate and Check Buckles: The metal buckles on the waist belt and leg loops can accumulate dirt and grit over time. Check that the spring mechanisms (if applicable) or the threading paths are clean and functioning smoothly. If a buckle becomes stiff or difficult to adjust, blow it out with compressed air. Avoid using heavy oils like WD-40, as they attract dirt and can stain the webbing. If a buckle is bent or shows signs of cracking, retire the saddle immediately.
• Manage Your Ropes: The tether and lineman’s ropes need care too. Inspect the prusik knots to ensure they bite and hold firmly on the rope. Over time, prusik loops can wear out or become glazed from friction. If the prusik slides too easily or looks shiny and melted, replace the loop. Store ropes loosely coiled or flaked into a bag rather than tightly knotted, which can create kinks and weak spots in the core.

Comparison with Other Brands

The XOP Mutant is a budget beast, but how does it stack up against the titans of the industry? Here is a breakdown of how it compares to three major competitors.

• Tethrd Phantom: This is arguably the most popular saddle on the market and the standard by which others are judged. Comparison: The Tethrd Phantom is significantly more “minimalist” and comfortable for walking than the Mutant. It features a “Comfort Channel” (pleated seat) that expands to cup your shape better than the Mutant’s static mesh. However, the Phantom is nearly double the price when you factor in buying the ropes and carabiners separately (the Mutant comes as a kit). The Phantom has higher quality, silent hardware and endless modularity, whereas the Mutant is a “what you see is what you get” system. If money is no object, the Phantom wins on comfort and weight; if budget matters, the Mutant wins on value.
• Hawk Helium Saddle: This is the direct budget competitor to the XOP Mutant. Comparison: Both saddles are priced similarly and target the entry-level market. However, the Hawk Helium has a reputation for being uncomfortable due to a very rigid, almost hard structure that digs into the hips. The XOP Mutant’s mesh is far more forgiving and breathable than the padded material used by Hawk. XOP’s ropes are generally considered higher quality than the ropes included in the Hawk kit, which have faced recalls and safety concerns in the past. Between the two budget options, the XOP Mutant is widely considered the safer and more comfortable choice.
• Cruzr XC: This is a premium saddle known for its expanding pleat design. Comparison: The Cruzr XC is famous for its expanding mesh pleat that creates a huge, comfortable pocket for your rear. This design almost completely eliminates hip pinch, making it superior to the Mutant for all-day sits. The Cruzr is also lighter and less bulky. However, like the Tethrd, it is an expensive investment. The XOP Mutant mimics the general shape of the Cruzr but lacks the expanding pleat technology. If you hunt only a few hours at a time, the Mutant is 90% of the Cruzr for 50% of the price; for all-day grinders, the Cruzr XC is worth the upgrade.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Conclusion

The XOP Mutant Saddle is a game-changer for the mobile hunting market, not because it reinvents the wheel, but because it makes the wheel affordable. It offers a safe, durable, and surprisingly comfortable entry point into saddle hunting for a fraction of the cost of the premium brands. While it lacks the refined features and ultralight materials of a $500 setup, it performs its core function—keeping you safe and hidden in a tree—exceptionally well.

If you are a hunter looking to try saddle hunting without emptying your savings account, or if you want a solid backup rig for a friend, the XOP Mutant is a fantastic choice. It proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy the freedom and versatility of the saddle game. Just be prepared to maybe upgrade your ropes down the line, and you will have a system that serves you well for many seasons to come.