I got to thinking about the phantom. Ive climbed with my LW sticks just to see how the climb would go. The linemans loops being stiff and more foward are a huge benefit compared to the Mantis. Their much easier to find especially in the dark. Although i like the new leg loop orange straps especially how their more in front and stiff i still find myself fumbling around looking for them. I guess if your wearing the saddle in you would already have those connected in the light at the truck. Speaking of wearing the saddle in for me i cant walk 10 steps without the saddle falling down even with the bridge cinched tight. Maybe pulling it high up when walking but when wearing it at where i would hang from i cant walk. It just falls down. I have no problem using the linemans belt over my shoulders and clipped to the opposite side to hold it up but have not tried a walk with it that way. I needed to walk with the Mantis the same way or that would fall too. I recall a video showing flininarrows Jarod cinched up to walk and it looked tight on him but i don't know if he could walk with it either without using the linesmans belt to hold it up. Also in the videos they never show the Phantom with the accessories attached which are in my opinion required. Another reason it may be falling down is i have all my full gear attached to it. 2 sys haulers, one on each side with the ropes in each one as well as the backband in one and the gear hanger in the other, as well as a Doyles tree hoist on-the top molly loops in the center. Thats a fair amount of gear pullin down on the saddle. This is by no means a knock to the Phantom. Its the best saddle ive used by far its just real world experience using the Phantom. As far as the comfort channels i have played with them a little but have only sat in the saddle an hr, or so at a time with no discomfort in any position. Only much longer sits will tell if they are a benefit for me. Says alot for the comfort of the Phantom though. I had no discomfort in any position i tried. So to sum up my early experience in the Phantom boys and girls.
WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER!!!!