Using Tree Climbing SpikesA lot of climbers find tree climbing spikes very helpful. It is true, they can make climbing much easier. However, you cannot simply go out and buy any old pair of spikes. You need to carefully prepare, make sure that you have the proper supplies, and be certain that all the pieces of equipment you have are actually the tools that you need. Spikes are a little bit like cleats, in that there are cleats on golf shoes and on baseball shoes, but they are definitely not the same. You should no sooner try to wear baseball cleats on a golf course than you should try to climb with the wrong spikes.
The most important thing to remember is that there are different spikes for all the different things that people climb. What are those things? Well, some people climb trees for recreational purposes, of course. Some people do it because they are required to for their jobs. And some people have to for reasons in between those two. For instance, you might need to climb a tree or a pole in your backyard in order to install an antenna or something like that. Typically, climbing trees is recreational, while climbing poles is occupational. The point is, you will need different tools for different climbing needs.
The thickness of the spike you need to climb a tree is different from the one needed to climb a pole. Actually, spikes may be different for different kinds of trees as well. The bark is the main reason for this. If the bark on the tree you are climbing has very thick bark, then you will need a longer spike. Because things like telephone poles and power poles do not have any bark to contend with, the spikes you use can be shorter. Sometimes climbers eschew spikes, especially when they climb trees and poles for the purposes of their jobs. They may use gaffs instead. Gaffs are hooked poles which can be handy in reaching things at high distances. They will also stick strictly to using belts to help them climb the poles and/or trees they need to climb. Novice climbers definitely should not try this method. You should take every possible safety precaution until you are comfortable in your climbing abilities.
Of course, spikes are not the only supplies you will need no matter what you are climbing. There is plenty more equipment necessary to make sure that your climbing experience is a safe and secure one. A helmet should be top priority, as should a good harness. Saddles can provide extra support. In fact, saddles are particularly recommended for novice climbers who may not yet have much experience with climbing. A sturdy belt is always recommended as well. Those climbers who do not choose to use spikes should definitely make sure that they have a strong and supportive belt. And, too, ropes is just as important as a helmet and a harness. In fact, sturdy ropes will make it easier for you to get used to your tree climbing spikes.
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