Tree Climbing Gear
Tree climbing has always been a sport for kids when they play outdoors, but it didn’t actually become an adult adventure sport until the 1980’s when environmentalists began climbing trees for fun. If you want to give tree climbing a try, you will need to have the right tree climbing equipment.
Basic tree climbing equipment consists of a rope, a harness, and a helmet. No tools are necessary, unless you call your rope a tool, because you don’t want to damage the tree by driving spikes into it; you climb the tree using strength and stamina. There is also no special apparel other than the helmet and harness, but it is a good idea to wear clothing to protect you from the scrapes of the bark and the spiders and other creatures you might encounter on your way up the tree.
Some use other tree climbing gear for the purpose of spending some time in the tree once they climb it. A treeboat (hammock) can be taken in order to stay in the tree for a while, and a blanket is nice if you intend to do some camping in the tree. You could look for special tents that you can set up in the tree or over your treeboat if you are really adventurous, these are called treeboat shelters, or you could leave the tent on the ground if you toss and turn a lot in your sleep.
Tree climbing gear isn’t cheap. Some products seem to be outrageously expensive. A product such as a rope for tree climbing can cost well over $100! But, you must understand if you are a beginning tree climber that you cannot just use any rope to climb a tree. Ropes tend to fray and shred and weaken as you climb if you are not using the right kind of rope. Using the wrong rope can cause a life threatening accident. So it is worth the higher cost of the proper equipment in order to be safe.
You can find tree climbing gear at outdoor adventure sporting or gear stores. Make sure if you are a beginning tree climber to take an experienced climber with you or find an experienced climber who works at the store to help you decide which products are the best for your money and the best to keep you safe in your new adventure.
There are stores online to purchase tree climbing gear, but if you are a beginning tree climber be doubly sure to do your research and know exactly what you need or ask someone who is experienced to help you. Another option is to find a site that sells tree climbing gear exclusively or to find a tree climbing forum and introduce yourself to get some expert opinions on tree climbing gear before you buy.
While tree climbing gear does seem quite expensive, it may make you feel better to go have a look at the prices of gear for rock climbing or cave dwelling sports. Tree climbers actually get off quite cheaply compared to the others. Get your gear and have a great (and safe) first climb.
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