Weaver Steel Support Pads

Weaver steel support pads add a stiff steel support to the climber pad so the spur shank stays aligned with your leg. They suit climbers who want more stability than soft pads give.

How these pads work

A soft pad flexes when you load the spur off-center, and that wobble costs energy and can make the gaff less secure in the bark. A steel support resists that twisting so your weight goes straight down the shank to the gaff.

The trade-off is a little extra weight compared with aluminum or soft pads. Many full-time removal climbers think the stability is worth it.

Pads also wear in ways that are easy to miss. Padding compresses, straps stretch, and hook-and-loop loses its grip as it fills with bark dust. A pad that lets the shank wobble makes every step harder and can let a gaff cut out, so replace pads before they are completely worn out rather than after.

Fitting and inspection

Confirm the pads fit your climber shanks before you order; mounting slots, straps, and hardware vary between spur makers. Fit them to the shank so the top of the pad sits just below the knee, and tighten the straps snugly without cutting off circulation. Compare other climber pads if you want more or less support.

Check straps, buckles, and stitching every time you put the spurs on, and replace worn parts promptly. Spurs are for removals and trees that are coming down, not for pruning, and climbers should be trained before using them.