I like my XOP sticks much better than my LW's. The steps are wider and curve upwards at the end of step on the XOP's, giving you better footing especially on a somewhat crooked tree. The strap button on the XOP sticks are metal and an oval shape, vs the LW's that is plastic and round. I also like the way the XOP sticks lock together with their 1/4 turn locking mechanism. The seat on an XOP flips around and sandwiches between the seat and the platform when the stand is folded, so there is no noise of the stand clanging together when carrying it on your back. I keep a Vanish stand with a set of sticks strapped to it in the back of my truck all season for a run and gun set up if I need it. It all comes down to personal preference, I don't think you could go wrong with either brand.