Tree Spikes for Climbing Trees: A Complete Guide

Tree climbing spikes, also known as tree climbers or spurs, are an essential tool for professional arborists and recreational tree climbers They allow climbers to ascend trees quickly and safely. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of tree spikes, including their benefits, types, usage tips, and safety considerations

What are Tree Spikes?

Tree spikes are metal devices that attach to boots and provide gripping traction for climbing up trees. They consist of a metal or aluminum frame that holds sharp spikes, usually made of hardened steel. The spikes dig into the bark and wood of the tree to support the climber’s weight as they climb upwards. Tree spikes strap onto climbing boots, hiking boots, or other sturdy footwear using buckles and straps.

Professional arborists rely on tree spikes for pruning, trimming, and accessing high branches when caring for trees. Recreational climbers use spikes for adventure and exploring tree canopies. Tree spikes provide secure footing on almost any tree surface compared to relying solely on boot traction. They allow ascending trees with speed and safety.

Benefits of Using Tree Spikes

There are several key benefits to using tree spikes for climbing:

• Traction – The metal spikes dig into the bark and wood, providing unparalleled traction when foot holds are scarce. This allows climbing where branches and handholds are limited.

• Speed – Spikes enable climbing trees at a much faster pace compared to ladder climbing or relying on branches. Professionals can access high areas quicker.

• Safety – Proper use of spikes provides stable, secure footing when climbing. This reduces slips and falls compared to unassisted climbing.

• Versatility – Tree spikes work on many tree varieties and bark types. They provide grip on smooth barked trees where boot traction fails.

• Durability – Quality spikes are made of hardened or forged steel that maintains their sharpness climb after climb. Some models last for years of heavy use.

For both work and recreational climbing, spikes make ascending trees faster, safer, and more versatile. They open climbing possibilities on trees without low branches or with slippery bark.

Types of Tree Spikes

There are two main types of tree spikes:

Traditional Spurs

• Have longer spike lengths, usually 1 to 1.5 inches.
• Provide the best grip and traction for climbing.
• Heavier than other designs.
• Best for professional use where maximum traction is needed.

Low Profile Spurs

• Use shorter spike lengths around 0.5 to 0.75 inches.
• Lighter weight and more compact than traditional spurs.
• Less potential damage to trees.
• Ideal for recreational climbing and style focused on speed.

Within each category, there are models made of aluminum or steel, with variations in spike configuration, straps, buckles, and attachment methods. Heavier steel spurs are most common for professional use.

Using Tree Spikes Safely

While tree spikes provide a huge climbing advantage, they must be used with care to prevent injury and unnecessary tree damage. Here are essential safety tips:

• Select spike length based on tree species. Longer spikes provide more grip but may penetrate deeper into softer woods.

• Keep spikes sharp – dull spikes require more force and cause tearing of bark and wood.

• Climbing lines should always be used with spikes for fall arrest and work positioning. Spikes alone do not provide fall protection.

• Use extra caution when descending and avoid relying fully on spikes to support your weight.

• Take care when climbing near power lines to avoid contact shock hazards.

• Inspect tree health and structure before climbing using spikes. Make sure the tree is healthy enough to support your weight and spikes.

• Use latex tubing wrap or other friction savers when necessary to avoid bark gouging.

With proper training and safe usage, tree spikes allow safe and efficient climbing. But mistakes can damage trees or lead to dangerous slipping. Careful use and judgment is required.

Tips for Using Tree Spikes Effectively

Follow these tips to maximize your climbing effectiveness with spikes:

• Always use climbing ropes, saddles, and other safety gear along with spikes. Do not free climb without fall protection.

• Clear debris, peeling bark, and moss above your climbing line to prevent slipping.

• Take slow and controlled steps when climbing, setting your spike tips carefully. Maintain three points of contact.

• On slippery bark, angling spikes horizontally provides better traction than vertical penetration alone.

• Lean into the tree on vertical sections to keep your center of gravity close. Avoid outstretched reaching steps.

• Penetrate thicker bark areas when possible. Brittle bark can collapse under spike pressure.

• Rest by hanging from your climbing line rather than balancing on your spikes to avoid muscle fatigue.

With practice, you will gain skill using spikes across various tree shapes and surfaces. Always stay focused and methodical for a safe, effective climb.

Selecting the Best Tree Spikes

With many tree spike models available, here are key factors to consider when choosing spikes:

• Spike length – Pick standard or low profile length based on your climbing application and tree types.

• Spike material – Forged or hardened steel lasts the longest under rugged use. Stainless steel resists corrosion.

• Number of spikes – More spikes provide greater traction. 4 or 6 spike models are most common.

• Buckles and strapping – Look for sturdy but adjustable attachment straps to customize fit.

• Weight – Professional climbers need maximum traction from heavier spurs. Recreational climbers often prefer lighter aluminum models.

• Tree health – Ensure chosen spikes are appropriate for your tree species’ bark thickness and wood hardness.

Leading brands known for quality and durability include Bashlin, Buckingham, Klein Tools, Weaver, and Woodsmen. Professional arborist spikes range from $100 to over $200 depending on features.

With research and advice from experienced climbers, select the right spike design for your climbing application, tree species, and skill level. Quality spikes are a long term investment for enhanced safety and climbing enjoyment.

Maintaining Your Tree Spikes

To maximize the lifespan of your tree spikes:

• Dry thoroughly after use to prevent rusting – do not store wet.

• Regularly inspect for damage or cracked welds. Remove from service if structural problems are found.

• Lubricate hinges and adjustment buckles to prevent seizing.

• Use a metal file or sharpening stone to refresh dull spike tips.

• Replace loose or worn attachment straps and fasteners.

• Consider removable spike tips which can be replaced once worn down.

• Clean off sap, resin, and debris buildup after each use.

With proper care, storage, and sharpening, a quality set of tree spikes can provide years of reliable climbing performance.

Tree Health Considerations

While extremely useful for climbing, spike use does impact tree health to varying degrees. Follow these guidelines to minimize tree damage:

• Only use spikes when necessary and remove them when climbing or working without them.

• Select tree species with thicker or protective bark to avoid penetrating wood tissues.

• Exit descent paths carefully to avoid excessive bark gouging on the way down.

• Disinfect spikes and pruning gear between trees to avoid spreading disease.

• Monitor tree health following climbing and take appropriate treatment measures if impacts are excessive.

Being selective and disciplined when using spikes will help maintain tree vigor following repeated climbs. Consider tree padding or friction savers when possible. Practice low impact climbing techniques when accessing delicate or damaged trees.

The Spiked Future of Tree Climbing

Tree spikes have come a long way from the original 19th century “climbers” that used long screws drilled into trees. Thanks to modern materials and designs, today’s spikes allow safe, efficient climbing with lower tree impacts. Advances in plastics and composites will likely yield even more tree friendly designs in the future.

While some view spikes as harmful, responsible use by trained climbers keeps tree health balanced with climbing access. Correct spike usage minimizes injury risk and ecological damage. Spikes enable tree professionals to care for dangerous trees and maximize productivity.

For recreation, spikes open the joy and thrill of tree climbing to many who lack advanced rope and caving skills. They allow climbing on a wider diversity of tree species and sizes. Under proper supervision, spikes even help expand tree climbing experiences for children and youth.

Whether for work or play, tree spikes will continue to enable climbing access for those who seek the heights of tree canopies and the wonders found there.