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Saddles come in two types: leg-strap and butt-strap. Leg-strap saddles
are similar to rock climbing harnesses in that they have two straps
which wrap around the thigh near the crotch. However, tree climbing
leg-strap saddles feature wider straps that are often padded for more
comfort.
Butt-strap saddles
use a strap that goes across the climber's bottom. They feel like one
of those flexible swing-set seats. Some models have a stiffened seat
that feels more like sitting in a chair. These saddles are much heavier
and are usually used by professional tree workers. When wearing a
butt-strap saddle, you must be careful to use one that has two smaller
straps that pass through the crotch and connect to the front of the
saddle. These straps prevent you from slipping out of the saddle while
hanging upside down and from getting into contorted positions.
Use harnesses designed especially for tree climbing. Do not use a
rock climber's harness, which is not designed for prolonged suspensions
in mid air: if you hang too long in it, it can become very painful!
Hanging too long in a rock climbing harness can also create serious
problems due to restricted blood circulation.
Small children are most comfortable using a padded leg-strap saddle.
The most important consideration with children's harnesses is that they
fit snugly. Using an adult harness is dangerous because if it's too
big, children can slip out of the harness and fall to the ground.
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