Buckingham Ergo Pro Harness

The Buckingham Ergo Pro is an arborist climbing harness from Buckingham's Ergo line, built for working positioned in the tree for long stretches. It suits climbers who want a US-made Buckingham saddle with a focus on comfort and support.

On the job

A saddle is where you spend the day, so comfort turns into productivity. When the waist and leg support spread your weight well, you can hang in position to make a careful pruning cut or rig a piece without fighting pressure points.

Buckingham has made climbing gear in the US for a long time, and the Ergo line is aimed at climbers who want that kind of support. Look at how the bridge, side D-rings and gear loops fall on your body, and whether you can add shoulder straps if you want them.

If you climb most days, it is worth thinking about the whole system. Look at how replacement bridges are sourced, whether you can add or swap parts such as shoulder straps, and how easy the saddle is to clean and dry after a wet day. A saddle that can be kept in service with parts usually works out cheaper over its life than replacing a whole saddle every time one part wears.

Fit and inspection

Size the saddle with the clothing you climb in and adjust it so it sits snug above the hips. Hang in it on the ground before your first climb to check the fit and how the bridge moves.

Inspect webbing, stitching, buckles, bridge and D-rings before every climb, and retire the saddle or replace parts at the first sign of damage. Saddles are life support, so use one within the maker's instructions and ANSI Z133 practice, inspect it before every climb and get trained. See more in Buckingham saddles.