A foot rests is a hunge comfort aid, and I probably need to pick one up myself. I have a Goliath and a broadhead. The goliath is basicly a Viper on steriods and is an excellent stand. Quiet comfortable, stable and very easy to use. The broadhead is more like a cobra/bushmaster that folds flat. It packs a good bit easier due to the fact that it folds flat. I have not hunted out of it yet, but will put some serious time in next week. I have useds it around the house playing around and found it to be typical Summit quality. Quiet stable, comfortable and all the rest. The first time I put my wieght on the hand climber/seat It sort of popped/squeeked once, then has been totaly quiet ever since. It' s not as comfortable as the stands with the rail but it does allow you to shoot sitting down in almost all directions. the folding stands are much better to carry even if the weigh a bit more than the non folding styles, this is proably due to the flat profile. In any case I think you will be very happy with which ever Summit you pick.