climbing gear

[CA arborista]

We are finally to the point of training our "own" climber - have a great candidate - and need some info on gear.

Can I get some feed back on the extra wide padding used with tree gaffs. (This trainee is looong.) How do they compare with the cast aluminum with foam rubber pads?

Thanx

 

[beowulf343]

Padding is for comfort. If the climber is "long" get the extenders for the shank. Doesn't matter how much padding is there if the spikes are too low on the leg.

 

[John Paul Sanborn]

I'm near 7ft tall and just need to set my gaffs on the top screw.

as for padding, it depends on how often he will be in them. If it is a ccouple times a week, then go for the wraps with metal inserts. I've had the velcro ones for a few years and love them.

my opinion as to other gear, set him a geaar allowance based on hours worked, or production, then let him order stuff to add to the kit as time goes on.