7 Best Tree Climbing Helmets in 2024 | LydiaScapes

Best Tree Climbing Helmets

The best tree climbing helmet is the one that fits your needs. Whether you are a hobbyist or professional, this can make all the difference in the world. It’s important to find a helmet that has features such as an adjustable headband and chin strap for comfort, wind protection and rain resistance, along with safety ratings from leading organizations like ANSI and CE. To help narrow down your search we have compiled a list of five top-rated helmets on Amazon.com so you can find the perfect match! In addition to looking at reviews for these products, it’s also important to read their specifications carefully before making any purchase decisions because things like weight will vary by model.

Best Tree Climbing Helmets

What are the Best Tree Climbing Helmets?

Below you’ll find the list of the top 7 Best Tree Climbing Helmets. We compiled this list from tree climbing helmets we have used, asked others about, and researched further to give you the best possible roundup. With many years of experience with helmets for tree climbing you can be assured that this article will give you what you’re looking for.

We also wrote a buying guide and answered some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) at the end of this article.

1. Husqvarna Technical Forest Helmet with Ratchet

Husqvarna Technical Forest Helmet with Ratchet
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: Orange ounces
Colors: High Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
Shell Material: Yes
Face Shield: Yes

Husqvarna is a well-known brand that provides a wide range of forestry equipment and protective gear. The Technical Forest helmet is designed for professional loggers and arborists and features a robust and lightweight construction for long hours on the job. It comes with top mesh ventilation to keep you cool in hot weather while also providing warmth for working in low temperatures.

Other notable features include a mesh face protection visor that is adjustable to close over the face or open fully for an unobstructed view. The 6-point textile harness is adjusted with a one-hand ratchet wheel to secure the headband around your head and it even accommodates knit caps in the cold months, while the earmuffs provide noise cancellation to 26-decibels. One downside is that the earmuffs come off quickly, while the headband does not absorb sweat. However, it comes in a bright orange color for visibility, and the helmet comes with a cloth shield to cover your neck.

Pros

  • Provides a universal fit for all
  • Protective mesh face shield with clear visibility
  • Well ventilated for hot seasons
  • Comes with noise reduction earmuffs

Cons

  • Earmuffs and face shield slips off occasionally Premium pricing

2. TR Industrial TR88011 Hard Hat Forestry Safety Helmet & Ear Muffs

TR Industrial TR88011 Hard Hat Forestry Safety Helmet & Ear Muffs
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: Orange ounces
Colors: Recyclable Plastic
Shell Material: Yes
Face Shield: Yes

The TR Industrial Hard Hat provides excellent protection for arborists and is made with recyclable plastic materials. The five-in-one helmet features adjustable and removable earmuffs with interchangeable plastic and metal mesh visors. It also features vents at its top to allow warm air to escape and keep your head cool, while the headband features a thin removable cushion to absorb sweat.

Also notable are the 22-decibel noise reduction earmuffs that protect your ears from chainsaw noise. However, some users have noted that the earmuffs come off their hinges quickly, and the high-density foam also comes off its casing. The helmet features a 6-point suspension system that is easily adjustable with a ratchet wheel. But, some have found it constantly unsnaps, which makes the helmet loose fitting.

While it is significantly lower priced than the big brand helmets such as Husqvarna and Stihl made for professional work, the TR Industrial is an excellent quality safety helmet ideal for the occasional property clean-up.

Pros

  • Good quality and affordable helmet
  • Comes with interchangeable face shields
  • Effective noise reduction earmuffs
  • High visibility orange color

Cons

  • Inferior suspension system
  • Not ideal for industrial work

3. NoCry 6-in-1 Industrial Forestry Safety Helmet

NoCry 6-in-1 Industrial Forestry Safety Helmet
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: Red ounces
Colors: Polypropylene
Shell Material: Yes
Face Shield: Yes

NoCry is an Estonian-based company that produces high-quality work and safety gear. The 6-in-1 Industrial Forestry helmet is an affordable protective gear for professional forestry work. It features a 4-point suspension system that fits comfortably and securely, with a padded sweatband and adjustable with a ratchet wheel. However, some users have found the helmet to be too tight for their size. The 25.9-decibel earmuffs offer the highest noise reduction in the market and can rotate backward or removed when you do not need them.

The helmet also comes with a full wrap-around polycarbonate face shield to protect against high-velocity debris. It also comes with a mesh visor that allows breathability in hot conditions. Both face visors move smoothly up or down the helmet for visibility and are removable if you prefer using safety goggles. The helmet does not come assembled, and many users struggled with installing the suspension system.

Pros

  • Good quality and affordable helmet
  • Internal headband provides a secure fit
  • Full wrap-around visor for improved protection
  • High noise cancelling earmuffs

Cons

  • It may be difficult to assemble
  • Tight-fitting for some users

4. Petzl Pro Vertex Vent Helmet

Petzl Pro Vertex Vent Helmet
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: Black, White, Yellow ounces
Colors: ABS Plastic
Shell Material: Attachable
Face Shield: Attachable

The Petzl Vertex Vent helmet is ideal for professional work and recreational climbing activities. It is significantly heavy at 640g compared to the competition and is not suitable for extended wear. However, the ABS outer shell meets EN 397 industrial standards and EN 12492 standards for shock absorption and impact resistance. It also features side vents with slide shutters that allow airflow in hot weather and can be closed for warmth in cold temperatures.

The Vertex Vent helmet features a 6-point textile headband with a CenterFit system that comprises two adjustment dials at both sides of the helmet. This system makes the helmet position on the center of your head for comfort, while the Flip and Fit system positions the headband low for a secure fit.

Another notable feature includes the chin strap that allows you to adjust the fit depending on the environment. The helmet is also compatible with several accessories such as an eye shield, headlamp, hearing protection, and nape protector, among others. While it features an impressive build quality with excellent safety features, the helmet may not be ideal for professional rock climbing due to its weight.

Pros

  • The suspension system provides a comfortable fit
  • High quality and durable construction
  • Adjustable ventilation system regulates airflow
  • Compatible with several accessories

Cons

  • Heavy construction for climbing
  • Premium Pricing

5. JORESTECH 6-Point Ratchet Suspension Hard Hat

JORESTECH 6-Point Ratchet Suspension Hard Hat
Specs
Price: 💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: Lime, Orange, Pink, Red, White ounces
Colors: ABS Plastic
Shell Material: Attachable
Face Shield: Attachable

The Jorestech hard hat helmet offers general headwear protection for any work condition that requires a helmet. It features a low-profile design that allows unobstructed upward visibility and is compatible with eye, nape, and hearing protection gear. It offers decent impact protection with an ABS outer shell and shock absorption with a 6-point ratchet suspension system that allows multiple adjustment points for a secure and comfortable fit.

The Jorestech helmet also features a chin strap to keep it in place when looking up. However, many users find the chin cup uncomfortable, and it is easily removable without affecting the overall performance of the helmet. It also features adjustable ventilation holes to allow airflow when needed and a quick-detach, washable, and replaceable brow liner that keeps sweat out of your eyes.

Pros

  • Comfortable and secure fit
  • Compatible with safety accessories
  • Decent head protection for working heights
  • Moisture-wicking and washable soft brow liner

Cons

  • Uncomfortable chin strap
  • Slightly Brittle material

6. Fusion Meka Work Climbing Helmet

Fusion Meka Work Climbing Helmet
Specs
Price: 💲💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: Orange, Black ounces
Colors: Polycarbonate
Shell Material: No
Face Shield: Attachable

The Fusion Meka is a work helmet suitable for industrial jobs and recreation activities. The most notable feature of this helmet is its lightweight at 0.7lbs, which makes it packable and comfortable to wear. It features a polycarbonate construction that gives it high impact resistance, while the EVA foam 4-point ratchet suspension system provides extra comfort and a secure fit. However, the suspension system does not adjust vertically to sit low on the head. The helmet features ten ventilation shafts to keep your head cool while antimicrobial padding absorbs sweat on the headband. However, the padding is not removable, and the shafts are not adjustable to open and close as conditions allow. It also features headlamp clips and slots for mounting earmuffs when needed.

Pros

  • Sturdy and lightweight construction
  • Excellent ventilation and moisture-wicking interior
  • Padded headband for comfort
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • The ratchet wheel breaks quickly

7. SMASYS Safety Hard Hat with Smoked Visor

SMASYS Safety Hard Hat with Smoked Visor
Specs
Price: 💲💲 (fewer 💲 = cheaper)
Weight: White ounces
Colors: ABS Plastic
Shell Material: Yes
Face Shield: No

The Smasys helmet is a sports helmet for cycling and climbing that features a sun visor to protect your eyes from sun and glare. It also features an ABS construction with a 6-point suspension system for a secure fit. However, the helmet is quite heavy compared to the competition, probably due to the inclusion of a sun visor for eye protection. The ratchet wheel adjustment is easy to use and provides a universal secure fit, but it may also break quickly.

The helmet also features a chin strap with double belt buckles adjustable for comfort, while the air vents are openable to facilitate airflow when needed. It has an attractive design, although the visor does not have protection against scratches when packed. Overall, it is a high-quality and affordable helmet for light-duty use.

Pros

  • Comes with a sun visor for eye protection
  • Provides secure and comfortable fit
  • Stylish design available in many colors
  • Good value for money

Cons

  • Heavy construction
  • The ratchet wheel may break loose

Verdict

Based on all of our experience with helmets for tree climbing, we found that Husqvarna Technical Forest Helmet with Ratchet is the best tree climbing helmet available today.

Our Premium Option is Petzl Pro Vertex Vent Helmet with all the best features and high-quality materials, but that’s only if you have more money to spend.

However, if you are on a slightly tighter budget, you can also consider the TR Industrial TR88011 Hard Hat Forestry Safety Helmet & Ear Muffs as an affordable alternative.

Our other reviews you may find useful in your research:

What You Should Know Before Buying tree climbing helmets

Why Wear a Tree Climbing Helmet

Most tree industry standards throughout the world require professional tree climbers to wear helmets at all times, whether up on trees or on the ground. Helmets protect from falling objects and impact from potential swings. They are especially important for tree climbers working on the ground because branches and twigs can get dislodged and fall. In addition, even the most experienced tree climbing professionals have dropped objects like carabiners and water bottles.

In addition to the helmet, some other equipment is needed for tree climbing:

  • Lanyard – The lanyard attaches to the side d-rings of your tree climbing or tree safety harness and goes around the tree to hold you in place. A lanyard adjuster to make your lanyard adjustable to get the perfect position.
  • Rope – A rock climbing rope or any other rope is not suited for tree climbing. You’ll need a rope double the length of the tree you’re intending to climb. Ropes can range from 35 to 60 meters.
  • Prusik – A friction hitch piece of cord that can be used to adjust your position on the rope. The cord used in prusiks has to be a specific material to be able to tolerate heat from the friction generated as you move up and down the climbing rope.
  • Locking carabiners – Made of alloy or steel and rated for a certain weight, carabiners will connect you and your equipment.
  • Spurs or spikes – These allow you to maintain a foothold on the tree. For environmental reasons, spurs are usually used only for tree removals and not pruning as it strips the tree’s bark.
  • Eye Protection

    While helmets protect the head from impact and falling objects, eye protection is necessary to protect the eyes from falling debris. In addition, eye protection is mandatory while operating heavy equipment like chainsaws. Safety goggles and glasses should give unobscured vision and resistance to impact. Wire-mesh goggles have increased ventilation, making them more resistant to fogging while performing tasks and scaling the trees. Lastly, these helmets with an eye protection component must conform to the ANSI Z87.1 standards.

    Ear Protection

    One of the often neglected items for personal safety, ear protection is required for arborists operating heavy and loud machinery like chainsaws and chippers to prevent hearing loss. Ranging from simple ear plugs to ear muffs, hearing protection should not be modified and needs to be taken seriously. The mainstream earphones or headphones are not a substitute for proper hearing protection for tree climbing professionals and cannot be used in its place.

    Suspension and Shock-Absorption

    Suspension and shock absorption are incredibly important in any harness. With wide waist belts and leg loops, tree climbing harnesses are designed for maximum comfort of tree climbers that spend long periods in suspension. A comfortable climbing harness is necessary to prevent Suspension Trauma that can occur when climbers are suspended with little to no movement for long periods. In addition, some climbing harnesses are not designed to be shock loaded so its a feature to be mindful of. When the need ever arises and there is an accident, climbers must be equipped to self-rescue or be rescued after a fall is arrested. When that happens, an additional shoulder harness is necessary to upgrade the harness to a fall arrest harness.

    Ventilation

    Most tree harnesses are made of breathable material to better wick moisture and sweat away from the harness padding. Long periods spent in suspension can cut off blood circulation at the points of contact, especially in warm weather, hence this is a necessary feature. The common materials you would find that are used in webbing and tree climbing harnesses include nylon and polyester. After long use, these tree climbing harnesses can collect sweat, grime and dirt. Some models of such harnesses can be machine washed on a warm, delicate cycle with no detergent or spin cycle, but its best to read the instructions on the labels when purchasing to verify if your brand of harness mentions that.

    Certifications

    The ISA (International Society of Arboriculture) is the global standard of tree climbing certification. It is recommended to be a certified ISA Tree Climbing Specialist to do any tree work. Climbers must have a minimum of 18 months of climbing experience and have current training in aerial rescue, CPR and First Aid. To be certified as an ISA Tree Worker, arborists are tested in both a classroom (theory) and field ( practical) setting.

    Questions and Answers About tree climbing helmets

    Is wearing a helmet essential for tree climbing?

    Yes, helmets are absolutely essential for any tree work. Most professional tree climbers have to wear helmets at all times whether on the ground or up a tree to protect from the smallest of falling sticks and debris. In uncontrolled circumstances, even the most experienced and careful tree climbers can accidentally drop objects from height and onto fellow tree workers below. In addition, a tree climbing helmet will protect your head from swings and impact from any falls.

    What other equipment do I need for tree climbing?

    In addition to the harness, some other equipment is needed for tree climbing:
    Lanyard – The lanyard attaches to the side d-rings of your harness and goes around the tree to hold you in place. A lanyard adjuster to make your lanyard adjustable to get the perfect position.
    Rope – A rock climbing rope or any other rope is not suited for tree climbing. You’ll need a rope double the length of the tree you’re intending to climb. Ropes can range from 35 to 60 meters.
    Prusik – A friction hitch piece of cord that can be used to adjust your position on the rope. The cord used in prusiks has to be a specific material to be able to tolerate heat from the friction generated as you move up and down the climbing rope.
    Locking carabiners – Made of alloy or steel and rated for a certain weight, carabiners will connect you and your equipment.
    Spurs or spikes – These allow you to maintain a foothold on the tree. For environmental reasons, spurs are usually used only for tree removals and not pruning as it strips the tree’s bark.

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