Tree climbing is a hard-enough experience already! But, it gets even harder when you’re unable to push yourself up or slide down smoothly.
That’s why many Arborist enthusiasts use foot ascenders to push themselves up! These small devices attach themselves to the boots and they help a lot.
But, when it comes to finding the best foot ascender, a lot of factors do matter! Don’t you worry, on that matter? We’ve worked hard and tested out 20 of these bad boys! Finally, we’ve made it possible to publish them all in one piece.
In fact, we’ve noted down the informative points at the end along with some common questions.
Care to find out? All you have to do is start below-
- Best Overall: Climbing Technology Right Foot Ascender
- Editor’s Pick: Climbing Technology Left Foot Ascender
- Best Value: PETZL – PANTIN Foot Ascender
- Best Premium: Notch Jet Step Foot Ascender
- Most Durable: CMI Right Foot Ascender
- Best Reliable: CMI Left Foot Ascender
SKIP AHEAD
- 1 1. Climbing Technology Right Foot Ascender
- 2 2. Climbing Technology Left Foot Ascender
- 3 3. Petzl Pantin Foot Ascender
- 4 4. Notch Jet Step Foot Ascender
- 5 5. CMI Right Foot Ascender
- 6 6. CMI Left Foot Ascender
- 7 What is a Foot Ascender?
- 8 Types of Foot Ascenders: Locking VS Non-Locking
- 9 How Does a Foot Ascender Work?
- 10 Frequently Asked Questions
- 11 Final Words
1. Climbing Technology Right Foot Ascender
- Foot: Right Foot
- Color: Orange
- Weight: 5.6 Ounces
- Dimension: 9.09 x 4.88 x 2.2 inches
- Department Name: Unisex-adult
- Material: Alloy
We’ve tested a lot! But, nothing came close to this particular product. We’re talking about the Climbing Technology Right Foot Ascender. Yeah, we’ve crowned this product over the others. But, we have our reasons too-
The unique standpoint of this product is the alloy construction! Yes, it’s durable and long-lasting. And, the best part is that it won’t add unnecessary weight to your boots when you’re climbing. Otherwise, it would fatigue you easily.
Other than that, there’s a lot to talk about in this product. Even though we got the selling point out of the way. But, that’s not all, trust me!
Firstly, the product comes with a lever mechanism integrated into the body. As a result, you won’t experience much snagging in the ropes. When climbing, this is important as it’ll make sure you’re gliding smoothly without friction.
It comes with a toothless cam as well. And, yeah, it’s a high-performance factor that locks the device in place. Now, the best part about the cam is that it’ll function even on icy or dirty ropes.
That said, we don’t want you to work with dirty or icy ropes. But, if that’s the case then you can worry less as this rope will take care of that!
Another great thing about this cam is that it’ll self-clean itself. So, you won’t have to worry about cleaning the cam in any way possible.
That said, it does come with adjustable webbing on the sides. So, you can adjust the positioning and correct them on the boots.
As a matter of fact, you can even reinforce the lower side completely. By using tubular webbing, you can work on the lower side.
Now, this product is designed in such a way that it’s ideal for working at heights. And, you can even use that on tree climbing as well.
Here, the opening lever of the device allows you to open the device. This will facilitate the insertion of ropes. And, it can even prevent any type of accidental slipping. So, that’ll protect you at all times.
If you’re wondering what department it’ll suit then it’ll work on the unisex adults. And, the orange color does provide a nice touch to the design. Even though aesthetics are rarely considered, you can give it a shot!
And, yeah, it does cost a bit high, but we believe it’s a worthy investment!
2. Climbing Technology Left Foot Ascender
- Foot: Left Foot
- Color: Gray
- Weight: 6.84 Ounces
- Dimension: 8.31 x 4.8 x 2.01 inches
- Department Name: Unisex-adult
- Material: Alloy
Spoiler alert! This is the exact same product as the previous one! Well, there are differences here. But, those are little-to-none! That said, it’s still a great product and if you’re looking for a left foot-ascender, this is it.
The subtle yet visible difference in this product is the color! Here, it comes in gray color! This means the product will look different, right? Well, it’s a bit larger than the previous product. And, a bit heavier. So, it means business and adds in toughness.
Now, let’s get one thing out of the way- the build quality! Well, we’ve tested it out ourselves. And, yes, the build quality is one of the best on the list! Solid built with no complications!
It’s safe and you’ll feel much more confident when climbing.
Also, it does have the same level mechanism that we’ve spoken about in the previous product. The mechanism allows smooth gliding and takes away the rope snagging!
At the end of the day, you’ll want a solid product. Otherwise, your safety will be questioned all the time!
As for safety, you can even work with icy and dirty ropes! So, yeah have your faith with this one as well. Speaking of safety, the opening lever of this device prevents accidental slips. So, you’re in safe hands.
Another thing that was praised in this product is the adjustable webbings. Using these features, you can correct the positioning. This increases safety and comfort at the same time.
So, by now, you’ll know that both these products are quite similar in their features. All you need to look at is the technical differences. And, there’s a few. The weight is a bit heavy and it’s a bit long. That’ll be all!
3. Petzl Pantin Foot Ascender
- Foot: Right/Left Foot
- Color: Yellow
- Weight: 85 g
- Rope Compatibility: 8-13mm
- Department Name: Unisex
- Material: Aluminum/ Stainless Steel
Say hello to the first Aluminum product on the list- Petzl Pantin foot ascender. There’s a lot to discuss here. But, the thing that we loved the most is the durability factor. More on that below-
The USP of this product is the lightweight feature. Here, it comes in 85g only. To be precise, that’s 2.89 ounces. So, this product doesn’t add extra weight to the boots. And, it’s quite easy to move with this product!
Other than that, the manufacturers have designed this product in such a way that it proves to be less tiring. But, how? Well, the design of these ropes makes ascending easy and fast at the same time.
As a result, you won’t have to put in more effort when climbing using this product. So, it won’t make you feel fatigued or tired.
Also, the product is designed to complement the rope clamps too. So, overall, it’s a great addition!
We’re not done with the design of this foot ascender. Here, the design makes it easier to glide fewer meters using the rope. Plus, the performance is optimized thanks to the toothed cam.
Another great thing about the toothed cam is that you won’t have trouble cleaning it, by any means. Moreover, the rope comes with this added mechanism that’ll prevent snagging. But how?
Well, the mechanism is designed to be integrated into the rope clamp. As the entire thing is integrated into the body, it’ll prevent any bit of snagging.
As you might know, the locking mechanism of the ropes gets hard at times. As a result of that, it’s hard to get out of the rope as it is to get inside. Well, that won’t be a problem with this rope.
Here, it’s easier to release the rope. All you have to do is to do the backward movement of the rope. And, that’ll be all to get you out of the rope!
And, this rope is admired by us because of the quick easy adjustments. The rope comes with DoubleBack buckles. Thus, you can easily adjust whenever you want. There are even options to keep your accessories attached if you want.
Now, it does come in a steel/aluminum construction. The presence of steel means that you’ll have a rugged construction.
And, it’ll even provide better resistance against corrosion. Plus, the straps of this device resist any abrasion. So, it’ll last for a long time.
In the end, it comes with rope compatibility of 8-13mm. So, you know what to expect from this product.
Also, the aluminum construction adds in durability and keeps the weight low. So, it’s an excellent addition to our list as it provides great value!
4. Notch Jet Step Foot Ascender
- Foot: Both Foot
- Color: Green
- Weight: 6.88 Ounces
- Dimension: 3.25 x 2.75 x 0.75 inches
- Rope Compatibility: 8-13mm
- Department Name: Unisex
- Material: Aluminum
Back-to-back aluminum products in our list. This one is the Notch Jet Step Foot Ascender. There’s a lot in common between this one and the previous. So, let’s check out-
The main selling point of this product is the dual-cam design! Here, the unique design contributes to the lower tension in the spring. Also, it causes reduced drag as well. By providing self-tending climbing lines that are efficient, it causes lower drag and tension.
That’s all about the design. Now, let’s focus on the toothless cam of this product. Here, the toothless cam of the product makes it easier at eliminating rope wear.
So, the rope lasts for a long period of time. And, that’s not all. The toothless cam also increases the strength of the grip. Even when you’re on frozen, muddy terrains and using ropes there, the grip remains solid enough.
Yeah! This means you’ll have some added confidence since the rope will have your back. On the other hand, the rope makes it even easier to climb with confidence. So, it’s a win for you, either way.
Now, the similarity between this rope and the previous one is that both of them are made of aluminum. But, the previous one had steel inside of it as well.
So, this one isn’t more durable than the previous one. That said, the aluminum construction does provide toughness.
Added to toughness, the aluminum construction takes off the weight as well. Even though this one isn’t the lightest product on the list, you can still carry it without fatigue.
And, to us, that’s a big factor. So, a bonus point is provided.
Speaking of similarities, this particular rope has the same rope diameter capacity as well. So, it’ll remain a tad durable as well. The higher the thickness, the better, right?
Lastly, a thing that’s loved by us the most is that you can wear this product on the left and right boot. So, you don’t have to go on and buy two separate products for yourself. Hence, it’s for a better cause.
5. CMI Right Foot Ascender
- Foot: Right Foot
- Color: Blue
- Weight: 11.2 ounces
- Dimension: 3.1 x 2.2 inches
- Department Name: Unisex-adult
- Material: Aluminum
The only bummer about separate foot ascenders is that you have to buy the products separately. While there isn’t an option to change that, we loved this product!
Hence, we’ve added the right foot first and the left one second. Let’s begin with the features-
Well, the unique standpoint is that coated aluminum has been used here. But, the product is also the heaviest on the list! So, it adds tremendous toughness. It even feels premium and high-performance when you carry the product. Overall, it’ll provide safety and confidence.
Speaking of carrying, the higher weight certainly increases fatigue. As this product will be mounted on the boot, you won’t have an easy time climbing.
And, it can get the climbers tired quickly as well. But, the added weight has its glory since it’ll keep the product durable, at all times.
As we’ve spoken about durability and toughness, let’s look a bit more into the matter. Here, the device makes it easier to climb as well. But, how? Well, the device makes it easier to maintain the tension.
Since it’s boot-mounted, the device can ease the tension. As a result, easy advancement of the ascender is possible.
Furthermore, it even makes it easier to keep the body in an upright position. By using better body mechanics, the ascender makes it easy at climbing.
On the other hand, the device used hard-coated cams that’ll ensure that the ropes don’t wear out fast. So, you won’t have to run to the stores to buy a rope once again.
The only drawback we believe is that you need to buy the left and right foot ascenders separately. So, yeah, it’s expensive and time-consuming. But, hey, no complaining, other brands do the same thing as well.
6. CMI Left Foot Ascender
- Foot: Left Foot
- Color: Blue
- Weight: 11.2 ounces
- Dimension: 3.1 x 2.2 inches
- Department Name: Unisex-adult
- Material: Aluminum
Down to the last product on the list! Well, this product is a carbon copy of the previous. After all, it was the exact product just on the left foot. So, there won’t be much difference here.
The first difference here is that ionized aluminum is used. Whereas, the previous product had coated aluminum used there. Well, it doesn’t create much of a difference. But, there will be a slight upgrade in toughness, we believe!
Well, there are a lot of benefits to this product. In fact, almost a lot will be similar to the previous. And, as we’ve mentioned already, we won’t go into details here.
In fact, even the technical specifications are the same. But, the material does have ionized aluminum instead of hard-coated aluminum. We haven’t seen much difference after the testing.
And, even the weight has been the same. So, the carrying problems will be evident here as well. Also, you might experience a bit of fatigue from the weight. But, we believe these factors can be overlooked.
Then again, if you consider safety and durability, there’s plenty in this product. So, why not look into the matter? Since durability is one of the leading considerations, we believe that’ll be prioritized here.
This is because durability is one of the selling factors of this ascender. Even though you’ll purchase this one automatically when buying the previous one.
But, you can start from this one as well. After all, this does provide a lot of benefits to wonder about!
If the weight isn’t a large enough factor for you, we’d suggest you give this a thought!
What is a Foot Ascender?
Yeah yeah, we know that it’s quite obvious what this thing is. But, perhaps, there are some of you out there that don’t know what a foot ascender is. For those people, let’s break the definition down-
Basically, a foot ascender is just a small device that’s attached to the foot of the climber. Here, the small toothed device is attached by a webbing sling. But, what does it actually do?
Well, the device allows the climber to slide their foot up the rope. Also, they’ll be able to raise the weight and push down at the same time. This allows them to straighten their legs and makes them easier for climbing.
Types of Foot Ascenders: Locking VS Non-Locking
Well, there are two functions of foot ascenders. Now, many climbers do wonder which one is the better between the two. Well, we believe it depends on the perspective.
Also, it depends on how an individual uses them. So, let’s break the thing down in order for a better understanding-
1. Locking Foot Ascenders
Honestly, some people don’t love this functionality of the foot ascenders. Also, it annoys some people as well. But, why is it so?
Well, locking foot ascenders attach and lock themselves to the climber’s foot. As a result, the climber needs to unlatch and take the ascender off every time. And, this process can be annoying.
When the climber needs to climb up and down the tree, this process can become frustrating fast. Well, it’s a good way for the climbers to learn the locking and unlocking mechanism of the ascender.
Yes, they do provide added levels of safety. Having a locking mechanism means that you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands.
But, there have been tons of phenomena where the climbers have been stuck. Mainly because they couldn’t unlock the ascenders. So, you’ll need to know how to unlock this device. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck for good!
The only place these things can come in handy is when you’re in a competition. Oftentimes, climbing competitions require you to move fast in a straight line.
Here, the rope can come out anytime. But, with the lock ascender, you won’t have to worry about it. Since the mechanism is locked, you won’t have to worry about the ropes coming out.
2. Non-Locking Foot Ascender
We’ve spoken a lot about the locked foot ascender. Now, it’s time for the non-locking foot ascender. Well, this could be loved and admired by many. It depends on the individual.
If you have the technique intact, you won’t have issues with climbing. And, using this foot ascender will never be a problem when you have the techniques.
Now, let’s come forward with the benefits of using a non-locking foot ascender. First off, it’s really easy and effortless to use this device. All you have to do is pull the device up.
Here, you’ll need to follow the trend as if you were pulling slack out. It’s quite smooth and flows nicely with the pull. So, all you have to do is pull the rope up in order for you to move.
Between the locking and non-locking ascenders, we believe that the non-locking ascenders are easier to use. And, you can easily control them.
Whereas, the locking ascenders are a tad safer. But, it could be a nightmare for the ones who don’t know how to unlock it. After all, no one wants to remain stuck in their device, right?
How Does a Foot Ascender Work?
You’ve learned a lot about the foot ascenders in this guide. We’ve tested and reviewed them in our list. And, we’ve even shown their purpose and benefits.
But, now, it’s time to take things to the next floor. Here, we’ll discuss how the foot ascenders work. Even though we’ve given some bit of an idea, let’s take a look at a broad level. On that note, let’s proceed-
As a foot ascender is a device attached to the climber’s foot, it’ll allow the climber to slide up. By raising their body weight, the climbers can push down and straighten the leg. As a result, the climbers can go up the rope by sliding down!
But, then again, you’ll need to remove the ascender for the descent as well. So, you’ll need to know how to use the lockable for the long ascents. You can use the tool clips or the carabiners here. So, proper knowledge about these devices needs to be known by the climbers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Will you require both foot ascenders?
Answer: Since single ascenders aren’t trusted by many, getting dual ascenders will provide further safety. Here, the two ascenders need to be attached to the harness. So, that’ll provide better safety.
Question: Which one is a knee ascender?
Answer: Knee ascenders work almost the same as foot ascenders. Here, the knee and foot ascenders can be used in the same manner. And, both of them make climbing very efficient. So, the knee and foot ascender can be used and the rope can be set up.
Question: Do you need to rely on body weight to climb down the ascender?
Answer: No, bodyweight doesn’t matter much when climbing down the ascender. The functionality of the ascender makes it glide friction-free down the rope. But, the ascender’s smaller teeth grab and bite into the rope. Now, this doesn’t damage the rope in any way. Here, you’ll need to put the body weight behind the foot. Only then, you can step down and lift the body.
Question: Will you be able to ascend using a dynamic rope?
Answer: Yes, you can ascend using a dynamic rope. That said, the process of ascending using a dynamic rope isn’t easy, by any means. This is because of the stretchy and bounciness of the dynamic ropes. Compared to the static ropes, these ropes are bouncy. As a result, you’ll have a tough time controlling it. But, then again, it’s possible to ascend using a dynamic rope. You’ll just have a hard time.
Final Words
Well, woodworking enthusiasts! We’re glad you’ve made it this far. And, this brings a smile to all of our faces. The team has worked endlessly for the past few weeks.
As a result of this, we’re able to publish this guide on- best foot ascender. We believe all the products are described pretty well. Also, the informative section of this article has been described thoroughly.
But if we missed anything, why don’t you notify us? All you have to do is comment down. It’ll be a pleasure chatting with you! Goodbye for the time being!
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