The 10 Best Tree Climbing Boots of 2023

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Are you in search of a good pair of tree-climbing boots that will last you a lifetime? Do you want boots that will be comfortable while working? Tree climbing boots are a necessity for tree workers. As an arborist, you need tree-climbing boots that will be your best friend. You need the best fit along with excellent performance.

You might be a professional tree worker or just an adventurous spirit who spends his time climbing trees to get the rush. Regardless of why you’re interested in this vertical ascent, you need the right footwear to assist you.

If you want something light on the pocket or if you’re looking to invest in a high-quality pair of tree climbing boots, we’ve got it covered. After reading through this list, you’ll be able to find the right product that fulfills all your needs and is much more than an average pair of boots.

What Makes Tree Climbing Boots Unique?

Tree climbing boots are not your ordinary day-to-day boots. They are specifically designed to cater to arborists who require specialized gear for their jobs.

Tree climbing boots have thicker soles and special lacing styles, so nothing gets in the way when going up a tree. They need to be durable and tough for all kinds of weather. Tree climbing boots can be used for other adventurous activities, but not all boots can be used for arboreal work.

Rundown

Best Overall: Pfanner BOA Chainsaw Boots Class 2

Best Looking: Andrew Cervino Wood Boots

Best Hot Climates: Haix Protector Ultra Boots

Best for Comfort: Haix Protector Pro 2.0 Arborist Boots

Best Reliable: Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Boot

Best 4D Sole: Arbortec Scafell Lite Chainsaw Shoes

Best for Tree Logging: Red Wing Loggermax Work Boots

                                           Kayo Chainsaw Boots

Best on a Budget: Carhartt Men’s Leather Logger Boots

Best With Spikes: Arbpro Evo2 Climbing Boots

The Top 10 Tree Climbing Boots

Best Overall: Pfanner BOA Chainsaw Boots Class 2

tree climbing boots
  • Rubber sole
  • Pull-on closure
  • BOA Fit System
  • Class 2 chainsaw protection
  • Higher shaft for comfort and support

Pfanner is an Austrian company that specializes in making boots and shoes. They are highly renowned when it comes to mountaineering boots but have outstanding reviews regarding their chainsaw boots as well.

The BOA Chainsaw Class 2 Boots by Pfanner are the first-ever boots to feature the BOA Fit System. This revolutionary design makes wearing chainsaw boots very easy. If you want to tighten the boots, all you have to do is turn the dial.

This boot is perfect for climbing since the laces cannot be entangled. It is a certified S3 safety boot with high durability and abrasion protection.

Pros

  • High durability.
  • More comfort. 
  • Easy to wear.
  • Without laces.

Cons

  • Slightly expensive.
  • It cannot be used for climbing spikes.

Comparing alternatives to the Pfanner BOA Chainsaw Boots

ProductsProsCons
ARIAT Men’s Intrepid 8″ Waterproof Composite Toe Work Boot  Spider-Tek Pro TechnologyComposite safety toe with metal
Waterproof Pro construction with Duratread outsole
Not just designed for tree workers.
Kenetrek Men’s Guide Ultra 400 Insulated Leather Hunting Boot  Thick leather upper Windtex waterproof breathable membraneExpensiveGreater functions as a mountaineering boot

Best Looking: Andrew Cervino Wood Boots

tree climbing boots
  • Made in Italy
  • High grip rubber
  • Sympatex membrane
  • Steel toe cap

These boots by Arbpro are extremely lightweight, making them ideal for tree climbing.

You do not just need to wear these to the forest. With extra comfort and a Vibram sole model, you can wear these boots anywhere.

With no metal hooks at the front, you can tie your climbing ropes with the boots whenever required. These boots come with Class 3 chainsaw protection and weigh only 2.5 lbs.

Pros

  • Class 3 protection.
  • Climbing ropes can be tied.
  • Lightweight.

Cons

  • Steel toe caps can be dangerous for electrical work.
  • Quite expensive.

Comparing alternatives to the Arbpro Cervino Wood Boots

ProductsProsCons
OUXX Work Boots Cheaper Static dissipative and can transfer electricity to the groundHeavy
BOIWANMA Steel Toe Work Safety Boots A cheaper alternative
EVA and rubber outsoles
No chainsaw protection
Better for hiking

Best for Comfort: Haix Protector Pro 2.0 Arborist Boots

tree climbing boots
  • Upper leather material
  • Covers ankle height
  • Waterproof

The Haix Protector Pro 2.0 boots are for loggers who also prefer tree climbing. These boots provide level 1 cut protection and will let you work safely with chainsaws at a speed of 20 m/s.

The classic lace-up style provides stability, and the sole is sturdy against slipping. The Haix Protector Pro 2.0 boot comes with an orthopedic insole for comfort.

Pros

  • It can be equipped with spikes.
  • Extra comfort and stability.
  • Puncture protection.
  • Gore-tex liners.

Cons

  • Not suitable for tree climbing in the snow.
  • Heavy.

Comparing alternatives to the Haix Protector Pro 2.0

ProductProsCons
Chainsaw Safety Boots Solidur Forestry Arborist Class 1Steel toe capsulated from heat and cold  Not durable
La Sportiva Men’s Trango Tech Leather GTX Mountaineering/Hiking Boots  Quite cheap
Leather outer material
Not ideal for tree climbing

Best Reliable: Lowa Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Boot

tree climbing boots
  • Leather and synthetic
  • Full-length nylon shank
  • Vibram Evo outsole

The LOWA Renegade Mid Boot is great for adventures and tree climbing. Weighing at around 1.5 pounds, these are meant for all kinds of terrains.

The Vibram outsole provides stability, and the climate control footbed provides protection from moisture.

Pros

  • Full-length stabilizer.
  • Lightweight and durable.
  • Shock-absorbing sole.

Cons

  • Slightly expensive.

Comparing alternatives to the LOWA Men’s Renegade GTX Mid Boot

ProductProsCons
Jack Wolfskin Men’s Force Striker Texapore Mid M High Rise Hiking Shoes  Texapore O2+Wire support for grip Force plate for stabilityHeavier Less durability
Foxelli Men’s Hiking BootsGreat support and stability Lightweight and comfortableNot worth the price
Less durability

Best 4D Sole: Arbortec Scafell Lite Chainsaw Shoes

tree climbing boots
  • 4D sole
  • Steel toe cap
  • 3-zone lacing system

These boots come with 4D soles and provide excellent mobility. To provide extra support to your feet, the Arbortec Scafell Lite Chainsaw boots come with a multi-zonal lacing system.

The inner tongue comes with an i-fit concept and is moveable.

Pros

  • Pierce-resistant midsole
  • Best for spurless tree climbing
  • Refined lacing system

Cons

  • No protection from electric hazards
  • Not suitable for different climates

Comparing alternatives to the Arbortec Scafell Lite Chainsaw Boots

ProductProsCons
Thorogood Logger Series 9” Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boots  Electric shock-resistant Breathable membrane for venting moistureHeavier
Terra Men’s 10 In Crossbow CT CP ESR CSA Insulated Waterproof Boots  4 layered insulation
Waterproof
Bigger in size

Best for Hot Climates: Haix Protector Ultra Chainsaw Boots

tree climbing boots
  • Vibram sole
  • Steel toe cap
  • Watertight sole

The Haix Protector Ultra Chainsaw Boots have a two-zone lacing system and are lightweight, making them perfect for tree climbing.

A special rubber compound is added to the sole preventing the climber from slipping and providing them with protection.

Pros

  • Vibram sole provides enhanced grip.
  • Great for use in a hot climate.
  • Better stability with the multi-zonal lacing system.

Cons

  • No insulation against electric shocks.
  • Only for tree climbing activities.

Comparing alternatives to the Haix Protector Ultra Chainsaw Boots

ProductProsCons
Wolverine Warrior, Men’s, Brown, Comp Toe, EH, Mt, WP  Oil and slip-resistant Comp toeNot durable
Cat Footwear Men’s Second Shift Steel Toe Work Boot  Full leather material Lower price  Only for summer/spring weather

Best for Tree Logging: Red Wing Loggermax Work Boots

tree climbing boots
  • Advanced waterproof system
  • High-tech welt construction platform
  • Vibram sole

These boots with a steel toe cap provide extra protection and are high-rise. The Vibram sole is specifically designed for withstanding wet weather and slippery surfaces.

The lacing system extends above the ankle and gives extra support to the tree climber. Even without spikes, these boots give excellent traction and stability when climbing trees. If you’re looking for chainsaw protection while logging, these boots are the answer.

Pros

  • Perfect for loggers who are tree climbers.
  • Ideal for spur climbing.

Cons

  • Not ideal for climbing trees in hot weather.

Comparing alternatives to the Loggermax Work Boots

ProductsProsCons
Irish Setter Men’s Wingshooter ST-83632 Work Boot  100% leather material
Safety from electrical hazard
Not for professional use
Carhartt Men’s Rugged Flex Safety Toe Work Boot    Composite safety toeInsulation from heat/coldSole de-laminates quickly

Best for Tree Logging: Kayo Chainsaw Boots for Arborists

tree climbing boots
  • Steel toe cap
  • High-quality upper leather
  • Waterproof membrane
  • Vibram sole

The Kayo Chainsaw boots come with Class 2 protection while providing extra support and mobility to tree climbers.

These boots come with special gators that keep debris and other things out of the shoe. The inner sock matches the shoe’s shape to provide extra comfort when worn.

Pros

  • Class 2 protection.
  • Perfect for tree loggers and climbers.

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Have a lower cut than other boots.
  • Low durability for everyday use.

Comparing alternatives to the Kayo Chainsaw Boots

ProductsProsCons
ROSSIGNOL 1907 Chamonix Boots Men’s  Rugged rubber outsoles for traction Insulation against heat and coldSlightly expensive
Kenetrek Mountain Extreme 1000 Hiking Boot with 1000 Gram Thinsulate Insulation  Thinsulate insulation
Double and triple stitching for durability
Quite expensive

Best With Spikes: Arbpro Evo 2 Climbing Boots

tree climbing boots

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  • Vibram sole
  • Water-resistant membrane
  • Customizable lacing system
  • Loop attachment available

These boots can work for tree climbing for a long time period, thanks to their resilient soles. As compared to other alternatives, they are cheaper in price and get the job done equally well!

Pros

  • Affordable.
  • Great for trees without spurs and spikes.
  • Reinforced lacing system.

Cons

  • Not for in-tree work.
  • Not suitable for tree climbing in different climates.

Comparing alternatives to the Arbpro Evo 2 Climbing Boots

ProductsProsCons
Arc’teryx Acrux LT GTX Boot | Lightweight Precise Climbing Boot  LightweightGore-Tex membraneExpensive  
Kenetrek Men’s Corrie II Hiker, Leather Hiking Boot  Waterproof Reinforced double and triple stitchinguncomfortable

Best on a Budget: Carhartt Men’s Leather Logger Boots

tree climbing boots
  • Goodyear welt construction
  • Cushion comfort insole
  • Rubber outsole

With a composite toe, these boots are resistant to oil and chemicals. Ideal for loggers who also climb trees, these boots come with a waterproof texture making it easier to work in wet weather.

Heel stabilizer increases mobility while providing stability during use.

Pros

  • Affordable.
  • For loggers and tree climbers.

Cons

  • Not ideal for hot climates.

Comparing alternatives to the Carhartt Men’s Leather Logger Boots

ProductsProsCons
Thorogood 1957 Series 8” Waterproof Steel Toe Work Boots for Men  Moc toe
Waterproof
Slightly expensive
Durango® Ultra-Lite™ Western Boot  Full mesh lining Removable cushion footbedNot ideal for tree climbing

Conclusion

When choosing tree-climbing boots, you need to keep all factors in mind and find the best fit for yourself. Arboreal work is dangerous and also very difficult. So, you need the right safety gear, which includes tree climbing boots.

A higher price tag doesn’t necessarily guarantee durability and comfort. When purchasing a pair of arborist boots, you might have to check and test a few options before finding the right one.

While all these boots are enlisted as the best, the Pfanner BOA is the best choice for me.

How to Make the Right Choice When Buying Tree Climbing Boots

When buying boots, you need to look at a design that has an enhanced grip and allows vertical movement on a tree.

Logging boots are specifically designed for chainsaw protection which is why they’re heavier. However, they also provide more protection to users.

Climbing boots usually come with spurs or spikes, while logging boots have Vibram soles for improved grip.

Logging boots with additional features make them compatible with loggers who also climb trees. Here are the other factors you need to keep in mind when buying climbing boots:

Weight

Ideal tree-climbing boots shouldn’t weigh too much. You need one with a balanced weight. However, lightweight boots aren’t very durable and don’t provide high protection.

Breathability

Good quality boots have high breathability. Some boots come with a foam system that provides good air circulation when wearing them.

Durability

Since tree climbing boots are used in rough terrain, they need to have high durability. Check the sole, waterproof feature, and abrasion resistance when judging durability.

Sole quality

Most climbing boots come with Vibram soles. These provide a better grip and are great for both wet and dry terrains.

Toe cap material

Many climbing boots come with steel toe caps, but this doesn’t determine protection. Non-metallic toe caps are perfect for electrical hazards.

FAQs

Where can I buy tree climbing boots?

You can easily buy a tree-climbing boot from Amazon, eBay, or even the manufacturer’s official website.

Can I attach a rope to my climbing boot?

If the boot doesn’t have any metal hooks, then you can easily attach ropes for climbing trees.

What’s the best boot for hot climates?

The Haix Protector Ultra Boots are perfect for hot climates since they have a foam that provides air circulation.

Why Trust Chainsaw Larry?

Over the years, I have gained expertise in the field of outdoor appliances and equipment. All products are thoroughly tested and reviewed by other experts before I provide my feedback. Due to my knowledge and experience, you can trust all the information you find here!