Tree Climbing Safety Gear
- There are some areas where a climber should never compromise, and that is involving the quality of the equipment. Do not purchase used equipment. It's impossible to know how it was used in the past, and small defects may go unnoticed. Purchase new safety gear, take care of it, and it should last for many years.
- Purchase a helmet that is designed for both rock climbing and tree climbing, as they have similar attributes and a rock climbing helmet may be easier to find. A helmet will protect a climber from falling branches and will protect other climbers on the ground from falling branches. Make sure the helmet has a chin strap and is ventilated. Most helmets are constructed of a polycarbonate shell and include a spongy liner, which is replaceable. Most helmets are adjustable.
- Grabbing branches and limbs can wreak havoc on the palms of your hands. Invest in good gloves that are pliable, flexible and thin enough so you can feel the texture of whatever it is you are grasping. Make sure the gloves have a non-slip surface and has elastic around the wrist to keep it securely fastened. Gloves are made of synthetic materials and can be washed many times without losing any elasticity or comfort.
- Glasses will protect your eyes from small twigs that come close to your face as well as dust and leaves that that may fall from the tree. Glasses should block ultraviolet rays and are polarized to protect your eyes from the strong reflections of sun and snow. The arm of the glasses should have a bit of flexibility to them, which prevent them from breaking if they are bent slightly.
- Finally, a first aid kit is always something that should be carried in any sport. In tree climbing, injuries such as deep scratches and pokes from wayward branches are common. A good kit will carry bandages in various sizes, antiseptic towelettes, gauze pads, cold packs in the event of bone breaks or muscle sprains and a rescue blanket.
