How to Use Tree Climbing Gear

Tree climbing is a popular activity. People climb trees for a variety of reasons including recreation, adventure and even for work. Whatever your reason for climbing a tree, it is essential that you know how to properly use tree climbing gear. With the proper use of the gear, such as harnesses and gaffs, you can guarantee your safety while climbing.

Things You'll Need

  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Rope
  • Caribineer
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Instructions

    • 1

      Put on the safety helmet and make sure it fits properly and is tightly fastened under your chin.

    • 2

      Put on a tree climbing harness. The design and wear instructions for harnesses vary depending on the brand and type of harness, but generally the harness should fit comfortably around your waist and all buckles and straps should be securely fastened Make sure your climbing partner checks to make sure the harness is correctly fastened.

    • 3

      Throw the weighted end of a lead rope line over a large, sturdy tree limb. Do not try to throw your rope over a small, thin or damaged branch that may not be able to support your weight. Feed the rope until the weighted end falls back to the ground.

    • 4

      Attach the rope's carabineer to your harness and make sure it is completely closed.

    • 5

      Put on your tree climbing spurs or gaffs. Spurs and gaffs vary greatly in design and style, but always make sure that you fasten all buckles and ties before beginning your climb The spur side of the gear should be on the sides of the legs facing the tree. Spurs and gaffs are not necessary for tree climbing, and in some cases can damage the tree, but if you decide to use them, make sure that they are properly secured.

    • 6

      Begin climbing the tree. Your climbing partner should be monitoring the climb as you ascend. He should hold the rope and make sure that as you go up the tree, the lead rope is going down the other side of the branch.