The Essential Buyer’s Guide to Mechanical Tree Climbing Devices in the Tree Care Industry! - Part 1

By the time you’ve spent a few years climbing trees, you quickly learn two things: 

1. Gravity never takes a day off.

2. Your climbing system matters almost more than anything else on the job (if your sole duty is to climb trees).

I've spent countless hours climbing trees professionally over the years, witnessing mechanical tree climbing devices evolve from innovative novelties to indispensable tools in today’s arboriculture. I’ve also seen some once-promising devices fade into obscurity. Whether you’re new to these impressive gadgets or considering an upgrade, this guide aims to help you make an informed choice—without requiring an engineering degree or multiple cups of coffee.

Let’s break it down.

Why Mechanical Devices Changed Tree Climbing 

Traditional friction hitches will always have their place in tree care. They’re reliable, versatile, and continue to be the chosen tree climbing equipment amongst many tree care professionals. But mechanical devices brought consistency, efficiency, and reduced physical strain into our daily climbing. 

In simple terms, mechanical climbing devices:

• Provide smoother ascents

• Controlled descents

• Offer predictable performance in varying conditions

• Reduce friction 

• Minimize finger burns 

• Improve overall system efficiency

When the day calls for multiple climbs, pruning large tree crowns, or spending long hours on removals, that efficiency adds up quickly in both productivity and body longevity.

Think of it like this: mechanical tree climbing devices don’t replace skill, they amplify it!

The Main Categories of Mechanical Tree Climbing Equipment

Tree gear varies considerably; while mechanical ascenders and descenders share some characteristics, each has distinct features that make it unique and differentiate it from others.

1. Moving Rope System (MRS, previously Doubled Rope Technique DDRT) Devices

These are the mechanical counterparts to traditional doubled-rope systems.

Common features include:

• Integrated friction control

• One-handed tending

• Smooth descent modulation

MRS devices shine on removals, trees that require constant limb walking, and jobs requiring frequent repositioning. They’re intuitive for climbers transitioning from hitch-based systems and often the easiest entry point into mechanical tree climbing systems.

If your day consists of lateral movement which requires micro adjustments in order to maintain constant weight on rope and not on the limb, this category deserves your attention.

      2. Stationary Rope System (SRS, previously Stationary Rope Technique SRT) Devices

SRS devices are built for energy efficiency on long vertical ascents and may work best on larger trees.

Advantages include:

• Effortless ascent

• Increased climbing speed

• Frictionless redirects

For removals, tall access climbs, and large spread canopies, SRS systems can be game changers. Paired with a foot ascender and knee ascender and suddenly that 80-foot ascent feels a lot less personal.

Just be prepared for a learning curve SRS rewards good technique and system understanding.

      3. Hybrid Devices

Most modern tree climbing devices are compatible with both MRS and SRS, allowing tree climbers greater flexibility without needing to change equipment. While these tools may be designed to excel in one type of application, they can still perform in others, rather than being limited to a single use.

These are popular with arborist who:

• Bounce back and forth between tree climbing techniques

• Want one primary device

• Travel light

• Appreciate versatility

Hybrid devices offer a versatile solution by streamlining your equipment and adapting to a variety of job site requirements. However, it is important to note that not all hybrid mechanical ascenders provide an optimal attachment point for a “clean” MRS eye splice.

What to Look for When Choosing a Mechanical Device

It’s not easy to confidently tell someone “This is the best and only device you should use to climb trees”. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, climbing methods, and the person’s workload.

However, here are some things to consider when searching for the ideal mechanical for you:

Rope Compatibility

Not all devices are compatible with every type of arborist rope. It is essential to consider factors such as diameter range, rope construction, cover and core design (including double braid or parallel configurations), and elongation characteristics. Always review the manufacturer's specifications and confirm that the climbing rope aligns with these requirements to ensure proper compatibility. Conduct initial testing at a low height and slow pace prior to committing aloft.

Your device is only as good as the rope running through it.

Friction Control

Adjustable friction settings are considered essential features by current standards in tree climbing equipment. Only a limited number of mechanical devices offer an adjustable friction dial. By adjusting the friction, climbing arborists can precisely control their descent speed; an effective device allows smooth speed modulation without grabbing, slipping, or abrupt "on/off" sensations. If performance feels unreliable during ground tests, it is unlikely to improve at height.

In addition to aiding descent, adjustable friction enables users to tailor the device to their body weight and gear. This feature is also advantageous for individuals who frequently test various arborist rope types, as the ability to adjust friction enhances versatility and safety.

Durability

Tree care is hard on gear, that is not news. Sawdust, rain, heat, cold your device should handle it within reason. The biggest thing to watch out for, PITCH and how the device will function while “contaminated.” Some devices will handle pitch moderately well, while others may completely lock up, but that’s our industry. There is no way around it, unless you have the option to choose what trees you get to climb. 

Proper inspection and cleaning can extend the working life of the device. If the device is allowed to remain filled with contaminates, the material of the device will wear quicker and so will the rope. Follow the user specs to properly clean your device. 

Rescue Compatibility

This easily gets overlooked far too often.

Device specifications will dictate whether the device can be utilized for a two-person rescue (weight limitations) and what guidelines must be followed when performing a rescue. 

Remember to ask yourself: Can my crew operate this device in an emergency? If the answer is no, the response isn’t to exile said mechanical device. Rather, thorough training must be conducted.

Training Matters More Than the Device

I’ll say it hoping not to upset, but rather to encourage more training.

Mechanical tree climbing devices demand understanding of friction, loading, and rescue procedures. Practice at low heights and involve your crew. The more everyone understands your system, the safer the entire operation becomes.

Are Mechanical Devices Worth the Hype?

Short answer: yes.

Long answer: absolutely if you’re willing to invest the time to learn them properly.

They can reduce some wear on the body, shoulders, increase efficiency, and bring a consistent climbing experience. Over a career, that can mean fewer injuries and an enjoyable smoother workday.

Final thoughts

Mechanical climbing devices aren’t about replacing traditional skills, it's about enhancing them.

As professional arborists, we owe it to ourselves to work smarter, safer, and more efficiently. The right mechanical device can become one of the most valuable tools on your tree climbing harness, right alongside with your favorite chainsaw and your experience.

Take your time choosing. Test different systems if you have the ability to walk into our showroom here at Bartlett Arborist Supply or if you have fellow coworkers that own different mechanical devices. Ask other climbers through social media what they like (and what they’ve rage-quit). And most importantly, build a setup that fits your climbing style, your workload, and your long-term plans.