RIGGING SUPPLY YOU CAN DEPEND ON

Professional Tree Climbing Gear & Arborist Equipment

Climbing Ropes

The climbing rope is the foundation of any tree climbing system, providing the primary connection between the climber and the tree. Professional arborist ropes are designed for low stretch, durability, and compatibility with friction hitches.

Popular Rope Types:

• 24-Strand Polyester: Industry standard for arborist climbing, excellent flexibility
• 16-Strand: Smoother running, popular for advanced climbers
• 12-Strand: Good balance of performance and value
• Double Braid: Versatile for climbing and rigging
• Static Kernmantle: Low stretch for precision work

Tree Climbing Saddles

The saddle (harness) is the climber's seat and connection point to the climbing system. Modern saddles feature padded leg loops, multiple attachment points, and gear loops for equipment organization.

Saddle Types:

• Saddle-Style: Traditional design with leg loops and bridge
• Full-Body Harnesses: Additional upper body support
• Minimalist Saddles: Lightweight for recreational climbing
• Professional Saddles: Multiple D-rings and gear loops for work

Friction Hitches & Mechanical Devices

Friction hitches or mechanical devices allow the climber to ascend and descend the rope while providing fall protection. These are critical components of the climbing system.

Common Systems:

• Friction Hitches: Blake's hitch, Tautline, Distel, VT, Prusik
• Mechanical Ascenders: Rope grabs and handled ascenders
• Mechanical Descenders: Figure-8s, ATCs, specialized devices
• Combination Devices: Ascend and descend functionality

Essential Rigging Gear

• Rigging Ropes: Heavy-duty ropes for lowering wood and rigging operations
• Pulleys & Blocks: Redirect forces and create mechanical advantage
• Fiddle Blocks: Compact mechanical advantage systems
• Rigging Slings: Anchor points and load attachment
• Portawraps: Friction devices for controlled lowering
• Rigging Plates: Multi-point anchors and load distribution
• Carabiners & Hardware: Steel carabiners for rigging connections

Critical Safety Equipment

• Positioning Lanyards: Work positioning and hands-free support
• Fliplines: Wire core lanyards for quick repositioning
• Chainsaw Lanyards: Cut-resistant lanyards for saw safety
• Helmets: Head protection from falling objects and impacts
• Tool Tethers: Prevent dropped tools and equipment
• First Aid Kits: Emergency medical supplies
• Communication Devices: Radios and signaling equipment

Getting Into the Tree

• Throw Weights: Weighted bags for setting lines (8oz-20oz)
• Throw Lines: Slippery lines for rope installation
• Friction Savers: Protect rope and tree, improve efficiency
• Cambium Savers: Tree protection at anchor points
• Tree Slings: Create secure anchor points
• Throw Line Storage: Cubes and bags for organization

Industry Standards

• ANSI Z133: Safety requirements for arboricultural operations
• ANSI Z359: Fall protection equipment standards
• OSHA Regulations: Occupational safety requirements
• ISA Standards: International Society of Arboriculture guidelines
• Manufacturer Specifications: Equipment-specific requirements and ratings

Safety First: All tree climbing equipment should meet applicable safety standards. Purchase from reputable manufacturers and authorized dealers. Ensure proper training before using any tree climbing equipment.

Essential Gear for Beginners

1. Climbing Rope: 150'-200' of 11mm-13mm arborist rope
2. Saddle/Harness: Properly fitted tree climbing saddle
3. Friction Hitch System: Prusik cord or mechanical device
4. Carabiners: Locking carabiners for critical connections
5. Helmet: ANSI-rated climbing helmet
6. Throw Weight & Line: For setting rope in tree
7. Positioning Lanyard: For work positioning
8. Basic Training: Professional instruction in tree climbing techniques

Professional Arborist Kit

In addition to basic gear, professional arborists typically carry:

• Multiple climbing ropes for different applications
• Rigging ropes and lowering equipment
• Chainsaw and chainsaw lanyard
• Hand saws and pruning tools
• Additional positioning lanyards and fliplines
• Pulleys, blocks, and rigging hardware
• First aid kit and emergency equipment
• Communication devices

General Care Guidelines

• Daily Inspection: Inspect all equipment before each use
• Cleaning: Clean ropes, harnesses, and soft goods regularly
• Storage: Store in cool, dry location away from UV and chemicals
• Documentation: Maintain records of equipment purchase dates and usage
• Retirement: Retire damaged or aged equipment according to manufacturer guidelines
• Professional Service: Have critical equipment professionally inspected periodically

What equipment do I need to start tree climbing?

Essential gear includes: climbing rope (150'-200'), tree climbing saddle, friction hitch system (prusik or mechanical device), locking carabiners, helmet, throw weight and line, and positioning lanyard. Most importantly, get proper training from a qualified instructor before attempting to climb. Tree climbing involves serious risks and requires proper technique and safety knowledge.

What's the difference between arborist rope and regular climbing rope?

Arborist ropes are typically static or low-stretch designs (24-strand, 16-strand, or double braid) optimized for tree climbing with friction hitches. Rock climbing ropes are dynamic (designed to stretch and absorb fall energy). Never use dynamic rock climbing rope for arborist work with friction hitches, as the stretch interferes with hitch function and positioning.

How often should I replace my climbing rope?

Rope lifespan depends on usage intensity and care. Professional daily use may require replacement within 1-2 years. Recreational use with proper care might last 3-5 years. Always inspect before each use and retire immediately if damage is detected. Follow manufacturer retirement criteria and maintain usage logs for professional applications.

Do I need ANSI-certified equipment?

For professional arborist work, ANSI Z133 compliance is required by OSHA and industry standards. This includes using appropriate climbing systems, positioning lanyards, chainsaw lanyards, and other safety equipment. Even for recreational climbing, using certified equipment ensures it meets safety standards and has been properly tested.

Can I learn tree climbing from videos or books?

While educational resources are valuable, hands-on training from a qualified instructor is essential for learning safe tree climbing techniques. Tree climbing involves serious risks including falls, equipment failure, and environmental hazards. Professional instruction ensures you learn proper techniques, safety systems, and emergency procedures. Consider ISA-certified arborist training or professional tree climbing courses.

Professional Tree Climbing Gear from US Rigging

US Rigging is a manufacturer and master distributor of climbing ropes, fall protection equipment, and industrial rigging equipment located in Santa Ana, California. With over 40 years of experience serving professional arborists, tree care companies, and climbing enthusiasts, we offer a comprehensive collection of tree climbing gear and arborist equipment that meets or exceeds industry safety standards.

Our tree climbing gear collection includes professional climbing ropes and rigging lines, safety harnesses and positioning equipment, carabiners and hardware, chainsaw lanyards and tool accessories, and all the specialized equipment needed for safe, efficient tree work. Whether you're a professional arborist outfitting your crew, a tree care company building your equipment inventory, or a recreational climber exploring the canopy, we have the certified equipment and expertise to support your climbing operations.

Browse our tree climbing gear collection and contact our knowledgeable team for expert guidance. Trust US Rigging for reliable tree climbing gear that ensures safety and performance in every climb.