Aluminum Spurs for Tree Climbing

Buying guide

Why go aluminum

Every step on spurs means lifting the spur with your leg. Lighter aluminum shanks reduce fatigue in your hips and knees, so you climb fresher at the end of the day. For climbers who are on spurs most days, the savings are worth the extra cost over steel.

Aluminum shanks are strong but can be more prone to wear in some spots, so inspect them closely, especially around the gaff mount and strap slots.

Lighter spurs also help on spar work where you climb, cut, flip your lanyard and climb again many times in a day. Every ounce saved on each leg adds up across hundreds of steps.

For occasional spur users, steel may be the more economical choice. For daily removal climbers, aluminum spurs are often the first upgrade they make.

Pads, straps and fit

Pads spread pressure across your calves. Big Buck style pads are wide and supportive, while steel-support pads add stiffness for heavy climbers or long climbs. Make sure the shank length fits your leg; the top should sit a few fingers below the knee joint.

Adjust straps snug but not tight enough to restrict circulation. Replacement pads and straps are available when the originals wear out.

Look at the stirrup too. It should sit squarely under the boot's arch and shank, and the lower strap should hold it firmly without pressing on the top of your foot. A badly placed stirrup can make even the lightest spur feel unstable on the stem. Wear your usual climbing boots when fitting new spurs.

Gaffs and maintenance

Choose a gaff length suited to the bark you climb, and keep it sharp with the correct profile. Replace gaffs when they wear short or get damaged. Inspect the whole spur before each climb, and only climb on spurs for removals, with proper training and a flipline.

Store aluminum spurs with gaff guards on so the points stay sharp and do not cut rope, bags or the climber reaching into the truck.

Carry a small file in the truck for touch-ups, following the maker's guidance for the correct gaff profile.

Comparing models

Climb Right aluminum climbers come with Big Buck pads or steel support pads, so you can pick the level of stiffness you want. Notch Ergo climbers are designed with an ergonomic shape for comfort on long days. Look at the shank shape, how the stirrup sits under your boot and the pad and strap system. Fit is personal, so try them on if you can and walk around before climbing.

Check that the climbers you choose accept the gaff length you want, and that replacement parts are available.

Before your first long day, wear the spurs for a few short climbs to set strap tension and pad position. Small fit problems become big ones over a full removal.