Patent attributes
Climbing devices and tree supports are provided for aiding a climber in scaling a tree, pole, or other generally vertical surface, and for supporting the climber at an elevated position along a tree or pole, such as in a standing or sitting posture. The climbing and tree supports include a body that supports one or more steps or support surfaces or handholds, a strap, cable, or other flexible securing member that is wrapped around the tree, and a retractor for stowing the flexible securing member so that it is extendable and retractable from the support. The climbing and tree supports are thus substantially self-contained so as not to require separate components for installation or use. Standoffs may be provided for stabilizing the support in a location spaced from the tree. Optionally, the steps or footrests, standoffs, and body are collapsible to compact configurations for stowage or transport.
