Kids' Tree Climbing Equipment

Climbing trees can be adventurous for kids of all ages, but it can also be dangerous because they are pulling themselves up high in the air without a safe landing beneath them. Parents should ensure that their children have the proper safety equipment for climbing trees.

  1. Saddles and Harnesses

    • Saddles and harnesses are pieces of equipment that wrap around kids' waists, over their shoulders and around their legs to comfortably yet securely allow them to attach themselves to a rope while they climb a tree. These harnesses can be loosened and tightened based upon the child's size around the waist, shoulders and thighs. The rope between their metal or plastic latches is made of nylon, which is the same type used by mountain climbers. Saddles and harnesses vary in price according to size and cushioning. Most harnesses are between $40 and $80 dollars apiece, while saddles, which have a lot more padding, are up to $120.

    Rope

    • A rope will slow or stop a fall. The rope should be made of nylon, which is used by mountain climbers when they are climbing up the faces of cliffs. These ropes should be attached to the harnesses with metal belays or clips and then tied to a branch or run through a pulley system. Without the rope, most of the other safety equipment will not keep a child very safe in the event of a fall.

    Helmets

    • A helmet will help prevent a child from being seriously injured or killed if he falls from a great height and hits his head. If he knocks his head against a branch when climbing, he can also become disoriented and fall. You do not have to buy a special helmet for your child as a standard bike helmet will provide enough protection.