Distel Carbon Fiber 3.1 Climbers: The Most Ergonomic and Lightest Tree Climbing Spurs Available

Distel Carbon Fiber climbers were the original lightweight tree climbing spike. Updated in 2025 to version 3.1: the perfect combination of lightness, stability, high-technology. The Distel carbon fiber tree climbing spur sets a new standards for professional arborists who value efficiency and comfort.

• Light weight: The carbon material minimizes weight fatigue. Complete set of 2 climbers with all straps, pads, and gaffs weighs only 3.8 to 4.2 lb (depending on straps and gaffs.)
• Ergonomic design: Forward offset and angled shaft for optimized fit. Combined with the extra-wide 1.85" base, the result is maximum comfort.
• Incomparable stability: Maximum load-bearing capacity and durability, even under the toughest conditions, thanks to a ductile and robust polycarbonate matrix. High break resistance is achieved through unidirectional carbon fibers.
• Well protected: A Vibram rubber sole on the underside of the climber protects the carbon and ensures a firm grip on branches.
• Sustainably produced: State-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, short and preferably regional supply chains, fair working conditions in a German production facility, and a high-quality, durable product with available spare parts ensure the smallest possible ecological footprint.

'Pads Plus' Climber Pads

• Additional padding for the shin and calf from foam plate that is 50% larger than its predecessor. The Pads Plus encloses almost the entire leg.
• Grid structure of the pad for optimal fit in the shell and on the climber's leg.
• Grid also distributes weight and pressure for increased comfort.
• 0.8" thick foam cushions every pressure point.

Gaffs with Black Teflon (PTFE) Coating

• High-quality steel precision casting from southern Germany.
• Special heat treatment blends hardness and toughness.
• Rockwell C hardness (HRC): 50.
• Gaffs coated with Teflon, for easier release of the gaff from the tree trunk, saving force and stress.
• Pre-sharpened, extremely sharp gaffs ready for immediate use.

Distel Straps

Distel climbers are sold with Click Buckle Straps and Tree Gaffs.  Other straps and gaffs may be purchased separately to customize your climbers.

USA Long - Tree Gaff

The Distel tree gaff is the specialist for trees with thick bark. Due to the long gaff length a firm hold is always achieved.

Spike height: 48mm, gaff length:57mm

Lower and Upper Click Buckle Straps

Cobra click buckles from AustriAlpin make putting on or taking off your spurs quick and easy. Combined with VELCRO fasteners, you adjust the straps to fit, and then off you go with an exact fit every climb.

Product Specification

• Country of origin: Germany
• Operating temperature: -4°F to 122°F
• Weight limit with equipment:
  • 330 lb with short and medium gaff
  • 286 lb with long gaff
• Height adjustability: 13.5" to 18.8" in steps of 0.24"
• Adjustment of upper straps: 12.2" to 19.7"

What sets Distel climbers apart?

• High quality: Only top materials are used, so you can rely on your climbers
• Longevity: Distel aims to build climbers that will support your work for many years
• Made in Europe: Distel climbers are created in an exclusively European production chain

Distel Climbers - History, Quality, & Innovation

Ulrich Distel built his first pair of entirely fiberglass climbers in his garage back in 1989. He began taking the climbers to trade shows, and followed them up with aluminum spurs. From the beginning, the climbers that bear the Distel name have been innovative and high-quality.

Features & Benefits

• 2020 pads have extra shin and calf padding and grid structure for optimal fit
• Adjustable height from 34.3cm to 47.8 cm (13.5" to 18.8")
• Stirrup width: 47mm
• Vibram rubber sole on climber bottom
• Top quality manufacturing
• Weight per pair starting from 1.73 kg (3.81 lb) depending on configuration.

Distel part # .