Hitch Hiker 2 Mechanical Friction Device

The Hitch Hiker 2 is a mechanical friction device for doubled-rope (MRS) tree climbing that pairs a friction hitch with an integrated tending system. Climbers use the Hitch Hiker 2 to keep a smooth, slack-free system on long limb walks and quick ascents.

What the Hitch Hiker 2 does

The Hitch Hiker sits between your climbing line and your hitch, keeping the hitch in line with the rope and tending it as you move. You get the controlled release of a friction hitch with the smooth slack-tending of a pulley. It is aimed at climbers who like hitch climbing but want less fiddling, especially on long limb walks.

The second version refines the original design. Many climbers who searched for a hitch climber or hitch tender upgrade land here because it keeps a hitch-based system rather than switching fully to a mechanical device.

The device is compact and relatively light, which keeps your system tidy and close to your bridge. That helps on long limb walks where every bit of slack and extra hardware adds up.

Setting it up

Follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly for rope diameter, hitch cord, and which hitch to tie. Small changes in cord, wraps, or bridge setup change how the system grabs and releases. Set it up on the ground, test it with your full weight just off the ground, and adjust before you climb.

Pair it with a rope the device is approved for, such as an 11.7 mm line like Yale Poison Moon, and a properly sized bridge and carabiners.

Take your time with setup. A system that feels too grabby or too slippery usually needs small adjustments, such as a different number of wraps or a slightly different hitch cord. Make one change at a time and test it.

Compared to other MRS devices

Fully mechanical devices like the Petzl Zigzag replace the hitch with a chain of metal links. The Hitch Hiker keeps a fiber hitch, which many climbers find more forgiving and familiar. Either way, your hitch cord is a wear item and should be replaced when glazed or stiff.

If you climb a lot of SRS, look at SRS devices instead; the Hitch Hiker is built around doubled-rope work.

Both systems take practice. If you are switching from a basic split-tail and pulley, plan a few climbs low in the tree to learn how the device behaves.

Inspection and safety

Check the device for cracks, sharp edges, and wear grooves, and inspect the hitch cord before every climb. Any change to the system should be tested low.

Life-support gear must meet the applicable standard (ANSI Z133 and the manufacturer's instructions), be inspected before every climb, and be used only by trained climbers.

Record when you put a new hitch cord into service and replace it on a schedule, not just when it looks worn. Hitch cords lose performance gradually, and a regular replacement schedule keeps the system predictable.

Store the device dry and away from chemicals, and keep it in a gear bag where it will not be knocked around by heavier tools.