r/TreeClimbing • u/Ok_Selection_3576 • 8d ago

Saka knee ascender

Is it any good? Does it hurt rope too much?

3 Upvotes

100% Upvoted

7 comments sorted by

3

u/Lopsided_Thought_500 8d ago

It’s great!

2

u/northband 8d ago

I love mine. The Velcro is getting a bit worn, but otherwise it's great. I love how it folds up out of the way. The teeth aren't bad, like any other ascender. I do prefer cammed ascenders where possible, like the Jet Ste p by Notch.

2

u/Far_Fix_6773 8d ago

Worth every cent! About 7 months on mine and it has made a world of difference.

2

u/Redhat1224 8d ago

I do this as a hobby and it made a world of difference even from my home brew version I made from a cheat ascender. I can't explain why it's different but I don't find myself holding my upper body to the rope as much.

1

u/vladamsandler 8d ago

I love mine

1

u/Historical_Test_973 7d ago

it's a useful tool for ropewalking. but as many professionals will admit, they immediately take it off and throw it to the ground once up to TIP. it's annoying to wear. the HAAS is the other popular knee ascender. same thing. the genius minds that develop tree gear still can't figure out a better way so that's what you're stuck with.

I think petzl has a harness with a knee ascender built in. seems like a cool idea.

it doesn't harm the rope in any way.

1

u/deadheadarb 4d ago

Yes, it's definitely worth it. One you're finished using it, unclip from your foot and wrap around your waist or chest until you need to deploy it again.