The 10 Best Tree Climbing Gear

video play icon

This wiki has been updated 20 times since it was first published in January of 2018. Whether you need to trim a few branches, get to your hunting stand, or just teach that mouthy squirrel a lesson, this climbing gear will make it easier than ever to scurry up a tree. We've included a variety of equipment types, so you're sure to find something that's practical for your needs. Before using any of these, of course, consult the manual for safety instructions -- and then follow them. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Petzl Pro Zigzag

2. Klein Tools

3. Newdoar Hand Ascender

Editor's Notes

July 04, 2019:

There haven't been any huge innovations in the tree climbing gear market since we last visited this category. Even so, we've made a few changes to our list.

Every arborist and tree climber should have a friction hitch in their arsenal and the Petzl Pro Zigzag is an exceptionally well-built model. It allows you to ascend, descend and swing across branches like Tarzan with the utmost confidence. Not to mention, it has a built in slack tending pulley.

Because it's one of the most fundamental pieces of equipment for those who spend a lot of time hanging out in canopies, we have elevated it to the top spot.

One product was also knocked off our list. The Guide Gear Climbing Sticks were replaced by the Lone Wolf Treestand Climbing Sticks, which offer better craftsmanship and portability. They also boast large reversible steps with ridges for a better foothold, even when wearing bulky boots.

4. Guardian Fall Protection Harness

5. Hunter Safety System

6. Tree Spider Vertical Climbing Belt

7. Klein Weaver Steel Spur Kit

8. GM Climbing Prusik Cord

9. YXGood Harness

10. Lone Wolf Treestand Climbing Sticks


Quincy Miller
Last updated by Quincy Miller

After getting his bachelor’s from the University of Texas, Quincy Miller moved out to Los Angeles, where he soon found work as a copywriter and researcher, specializing in health and wellness topics for a major online media brand. Quincy is also knowledgeable about home improvement, as he’s had extensive experience with everything from insulation to power tools to emergency room trips, sometimes in that order. Sharing a home with three dogs and a couple of cats has forced Quincy to learn as much as he can about pet supplies, animal nutrition and, most importantly, the best ways to tackle the mountains of fur that accumulate in every corner of your home.


Thanks for reading the fine print. About the Wiki: We don't accept sponsorships, free goods, samples, promotional products, or other benefits from any of the product brands featured on this page, except in cases where those brands are manufactured by the retailer to which we are linking. For more information on our rankings, please read about us, linked below. The Wiki is a participant in associate programs from Amazon, Walmart, Ebay, Target, and others, and may earn advertising fees when you use our links to these websites. These fees will not increase your purchase price, which will be the same as any direct visitor to the merchant’s website. If you believe that your product should be included in this review, you may contact us, but we cannot guarantee a response, even if you send us flowers.