Collection: Tree Climbing Kits for Arborists & Professional Climbers

Tree climbing kits give arborists and professional climbers a complete, ready-to-go setup for safe and efficient work at height. Our curated kits include essential components such as climbing harnesses, ropes, karabiners, friction devices, lanyards and accessories chosen to suit both beginners and advanced climbers. Each kit is assembled using trusted brands to ensure durability, comfort and full compliance with industry standards. Whether you need a starter kit for training or a fully featured professional setup for daily tree work, these kits offer outstanding value and reliability. All kits are available with fast UK delivery.

Tree climbing kits give arborists and professional climbers a complete, ...

Tree surgeon in climbing gear, showcasing essential tree climbing kit like harness and lanyard in a forest.

Buyer's Guide

Tree Climbing Kit Buyer's Guide

Whether you're building a first arborist starter kit for training, setting up a complete SRT system or upgrading from DRT to single rope technique, this guide covers everything you need to know about choosing, checking and building a professional tree climbing kit from the Gustharts range.

What's in an Arborist Tree Climbing Kit?

A complete arborist climbing kit includes: a certified arborist saddle (EN 813), a climbing rope (30m or 45m), friction hitch or mechanical climbing device, at least two certified screwgate carabiners (EN 362), a work positioning lanyard (EN 354/358), a certified arborist helmet with visor and ear defenders, and a throw line for rope installation. Kits at Gustharts are assembled using trusted brands including Petzl, DMM, Teufelberger, Courant and ISC.

Arborist Starter Kits

An arborist starter kit gives trainee tree surgeons everything needed to begin professional climbing training. A good starter kit includes a DRT-compatible saddle, a 45m climbing rope, friction hitch set, two screwgate carabiners, a work positioning lanyard and a helmet. Gustharts arborist starter kits are assembled to industry training standards and are suitable for City & Guilds, NPTC and Lantra arborist qualifications.

SRT Climbing Kits

An SRT tree climbing kit is built around a low-elongation single rope and a set of mechanical ascenders - typically a foot ascender, knee ascender and chest rope clamp, plus a descender for controlled descent. SRT kits at Gustharts use proven components from ISC, Petzl and Rock Exotica, assembled for professional arborists transitioning from DRT to single rope technique or setting up a complete SRT system from scratch.

DRT Climbing Kits

A DRT (doubled rope technique) tree climbing kit uses a 45m or 60m climbing rope running through an anchor, with progress made via friction hitches or a mechanical device like the Rope Wrench. DRT is the traditional arborist climbing technique and remains widely used in the UK for its versatility and familiar handling. A DRT kit requires: a mid-elongation climbing rope, friction hitch set or mechanical device, saddle, and work positioning lanyard.

Treehog Climbing Kits

Treehog is a UK arborist equipment brand producing complete climbing kits and gear bundles specifically designed for professional tree surgeons and arborist trainees. Treehog climbing kits are assembled to UK industry standards and include all essential components for safe DRT or SRT tree climbing. The Treehog brand is widely recognised in the UK arborist sector and their kits offer strong value at entry and mid-level professional price points.

What to Check Before Buying a Climbing Kit

Before purchasing a tree climbing kit, verify: (1) the saddle carries EN 813 certification; (2) the climbing rope is rated for arborist use with a minimum breaking strength above 22kN; (3) all carabiners carry EN 362 certification; (4) the helmet meets EN 397 head protection and EN 1731 mesh visor standards; (5) all components are within their service life and free from damage. If in doubt, contact Gustharts for pre-purchase compatibility advice.

Building Your Arborist Kit Over Time

Most professional arborists start with a DRT kit and add SRT components as their technique develops. A sensible progression: start with a quality DRT saddle (Petzl Sequoia or Courant Koala), a 45m climbing rope and friction hitches. Add a throw line and throw bag for rope installation. Upgrade to mechanical devices (ISC Reflex or Rope Wrench) when comfortable with the basics. Add SRT ascenders when transitioning to single rope technique. Gustharts can advise on upgrade paths for any climbing setup.