Buckingham Agility Saddle

The Buckingham Agility saddle is a Buckingham tree saddle designed for climbers who move constantly in the canopy. It is built to let you twist, reach and limb walk without the saddle fighting you, while keeping the support you need for long hangs.

Who the Agility suits

Buckingham has been making climbing saddles in the US for a long time, and the Agility is aimed at climbers who spend their day moving: pruning wide crowns, limb walking and repositioning often. A bridge-style attachment lets your friction system travel side to side as you turn, so you are not twisting against a fixed point.

If you mostly do removals and hang in one spot, the support and seat may matter more to you than mobility. Compare with the Buckingham Buckcraft.

Mobility saddles are especially useful on large-crown pruning, where you spend a lot of time reaching out on limbs and rotating around the stem. Being able to turn without fighting the saddle saves energy over a full day.

Fit and safety

Order the size that matches your waist and leg measurements, adjust it with the clothes you climb in, and hang test it before going aloft. Check stitching, webbing, bridge and D-rings before each climb.

A saddle is life-support equipment: buy one that meets the applicable standard, follow the manufacturer's instructions and ANSI Z133, inspect it before every climb and retire it when wear reaches the maker's limits. Get trained before you climb on any new system.

Look at gear loops and accessory options too. A saddle that carries your handsaw, carabiners and slings where you can reach them will make you more efficient.