
Aaron Cranfield
July 21, 2025
Lightweight Climbing Boots for Tree Climbers - The Ascent Pro by Arbortec
Climb with confidence in boots crafted for movement, control, and comfort.
In the world of tree climbing, whether competitive, recreational, or professional, footwear is much more than just gear. It’s a vital part of your climbing system, directly affecting your comfort, control, and safety throughout the day. For climbers who don’t need full safety-rated boots but still demand top-tier performance, the Ascent Pro stands out as a purpose-built approach boot designed specifically for life above and below the canopy.
The Ascent Pro belongs to our non-safety footwear range, created for those who prioritise agility, grip, and comfort over additional protection features like steel toecaps or chainsaw resistance. Built in Italy and tested in a variety of field environments, this boot offers climbers a blend of precise engineering, rugged materials, and ergonomic comfort for full days spent on their feet or in the trees.
Designed to Climb
The Ascent Pro is a low-cut approach boot made to excel in the specific challenges of tree climbing. From rope work to foot ascenders, from foot-locking techniques to canopy navigation, every feature of this boot is crafted to support confident, controlled movement.
Starting with its sole, the Ascent Pro uses a premium Vibram sole unit, recognised for exceptional traction on bark, rope, wet surfaces, and uneven terrain. Whether ascending in competition or exploring a wooded area recreationally, the Vibram outsole keeps your footing solid and dependable.

The boot is built around a stiffened full-length performance midsole, providing the leverage and stability needed for extended periods of climbing. This midsole delivers the structural integrity climbers need when engaging with spurs or foot ascenders, without compromising comfort during ground movement or long approach walks.
Tough Outside, Comfortable Inside
Durability is a defining characteristic of the Ascent Pro. Its exterior is finished in our distinctive lime green reversed leather, a material chosen not just for its standout looks but for its robustness and resistance to wear. Around the collar, Keprotec mesh fabric adds lightweight breathability and flexibility while still standing up to the rigours of hard use. The stiffened toe box adds an extra layer of structure and protection, essential during vertical climbing manoeuvres and when dealing with harsh, unpredictable terrain.

Surrounding the boot is a full wrap-around rubber rand, offering additional abrasion resistance, particularly in areas where rope, gear, and hardware often make contact. It also enhances grip during foot-locking, a must-have for serious climbers.
One of the Ascent Pro’s most climber-friendly features is its full-length low-profile lacing system. There’s no protruding hardware to catch or snag on rope or webbing, reducing the risk of interference or damage during complex climbing movements. The lacing allows for a customisable, secure fit that stays in place through all phases of activity.
Comfort for All-Day Climbing
The Ascent Pro doesn't just excel in technical performance. It’s designed for all-day comfort. It features a Breathe Dry waterproof and breathable membrane, which keeps feet dry from both external moisture and internal perspiration. This makes it ideal for working in damp conditions, humid forests, and changeable climates.

Inside, the boot offers strategically placed comfort cushioning that supports key pressure points and ensures comfort over long periods of use. Whether you're on the ground prepping gear or in a harness for hours at a time, the Ascent Pro keeps fatigue at bay.
Thanks to its low-cut profile, the boot allows for greater ankle flexibility while still providing excellent lateral support. This mobility is especially valuable in tree climbing, where foot placement and balance are constantly shifting.
Versatile Performance, On and Off the Tree
While the Ascent Pro is clearly optimised for tree climbing, its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of outdoor activities. Its rugged sole and lightweight build make it great for approach walks, light hiking, rigging setups, and even daily wear in forestry or land-based environmental work. Its comfort and performance also make it a solid choice for ground crew members, tree workers, or enthusiasts who aren’t performing chainsaw operations but still want high-spec footwear.

Important Note: Non-Safety Classification
It’s crucial to note that the Ascent Pro is not a safety boot. It does not feature a steel or composite toecap, anti-perforation midsole, or chainsaw protection. This is by design, created for scenarios where mobility, weight-saving, and climbing functionality take precedence over traditional PPE requirements. If you’re involved in commercial operations that demand safety certification or protective gear, you’ll want to look at our safety-rated climbing boots.

But for those working or competing in lower-risk environments, or for climbers who already use chainsaw protection elsewhere in their system, the Ascent Pro is a superb option.
Feature Overview
To recap, here are the standout features of the Ascent Pro:
- Performance climbing boot crafted in Italy
- Lime green reversed leather for durability and visibility
- Vibram sole unit for maximum grip on a variety of surfaces
- Full-length performance midsole for leverage and foot support
- Keprotec mesh collar for breathable, flexible comfort
- Breathe Dry waterproof & breathable membrane
- Stiffened toe box and full rubber rand for structure and abrasion protection
- Low-profile, snag-free lacing system
Note: No toecap, no anti-penetration midsole, and no chainsaw protection
Who Should Choose the Ascent Pro?
This boot is purpose-built for:
- Tree climbing competitors seeking lightweight, agile footwear with grip and control
- Recreational climbers who want professional-grade footwear for non-commercial climbs
- Arborists and climbers working in non-safety-critical environments
- Outdoor professionals who want waterproof, breathable footwear for varied terrain
- Support teams and ground staff who need high-performance without full PPE
Conclusion: A Tool for the Committed Climber
The Ascent Pro represents a focused solution for climbers who need precision, durability, and comfort in a non-safety package. It’s not trying to be a jack-of-all-trades. It’s a specialist boot for a specific type of work and play: climbing trees.
Every component, from its Vibram sole to its reversed leather upper, has been tested in the real world by real climbers.
It offers a rare balance of strength and sensitivity, making it a smart investment for anyone who takes tree climbing seriously but doesn’t need the bulk or restrictions of a safety boot.
If you’re looking to step into footwear that enhances your performance and comfort in the tree, the Ascent Pro is ready to climb when you are.