I use some of both. I leave the ladder stands out all year long but I loosen the straps at the end of each season so the tree doesnt break them growing over the summer. I have 5 hang on stands that I leave out all year as well. Some have straps some have chains. It just depends on where you hunt and who else is in the area. I take down stands every year when I hunt other properties that I do not own, that way I know the wont grow legs and walk off.