Tree Climbing Knots

Climbing up a tree is a task required of rescuers as well as people checking telephone and electric lines and those cutting trees. For recreation, though, this can also be a fun activity. In fact, kids can even enjoy it with adults.

But as safety is always a priority in any physical activity, one needs to have the proper equipment when climbing trees. If you’re one planning on venturing into this form of recreation, here’s a checklist of the equipment you should have.

Helmet. This is a basic protection for your head. A must-have. Pick one with a strap.

Climbing rope. A long rope is required if you’re going to climb a tall tree. Together with the harness and the other devices, this will hold you safe as you ascend and while you’re staying on top of a tree. Ropes for climbing purposes are of two types: the dynamic and static. Dynamic ropes are stretchable and are often used for belaying purposes while the static ones are often used in anchor systems.

Harness belt. This comes in two types: the waist belt and the chest belt. The waist belt can be used by itself or in combination with the chest harness. The chest belt is used to provide more balance to a climber.

Spikes. These are attached to high cut boots for an easier climb. These accessories made from stainless steel penetrate hard into the bark of the tree to support your weight and keep your balance.

Pulleys. This is used in your safety system and this is where the ropes pass through to make ascending and descending faster. In addition, this comes in different styles and sizes.

Ascenders. The ascender also called Jumar is used to provide a firm grip on the rope through a locking mechanism. This is attached to the harness through a sling and then is clipped on the rope and locked.

Descender. This is a rappel device also known as a friction brake and is specially designed for use in descending ropes. The figure eight descender made from aluminum in the shape of the number eight is the most popular one.

Carabiner. These are screw locks made from metal or aluminum (recreational climbing) and have a screwed gate. This is used to connect the parts of a safety system especially ropes. The same concept is used in key holders and water bottle holders.

Quickdraws. Climbers use this to attach their ropes to bolt anchors. This device also referred to as draws has two non-locking carabiners connected by a short and pre-sewn loop of webbing.

Belay devices. These provide mechanical friction brakes to let tree climbers control their belay rope. With these devices, locking off of the rope is made easier. The descender is just one of them

Tree hammock. For the more experienced tree climbers, this is one extra and very light gear they can bring along. With a hammock sometimes called a tree boat, anybody can recline and relax while up on a tree. Just make sure you’re hanging your hammock on a big and sturdy branch to keep you from falling.

With these pieces of equipment ready, you can now enjoy every tree climbing adventure.

Tags: Equipment, tree climbing