Hey! So, about the Notch Gecko Steel Climbers—they've caught the eye of a lot of professional arborists for being pretty solid in terms of build and performance.
But like with most gear, opinions on how comfy they are differ a bit. Something cool about them is the Velcro fastening system on the calf straps, which is meant to give you a snug fit. Our research shows folks often talk about how stable they feel on trees, and they're definitely seen as a step up from some of the cheaper options out there.
A big plus is that they don't give you that annoying shin pain, even if you're climbing for hours, which is a common issue with more affordable climbers. Still, comfort does really depend on what works for you and how you use them.
One thing to keep in mind is that over time, the Velcro straps can collect dirt and sawdust, which might make them less effective—something to think about if you're in variable environments a lot. Also, a few arborists noted the padding might slip, especially in warm weather, and when it does, the green plastic casing can end up rubbing against your leg.
That can get uncomfortable, so some regular users tweak their setup, like adjusting the padding, to keep things comfy.
Bottom line: they do have an edge with grip and durability, but if you're a pro using them a lot, you might need to make a few adjustments.
It's all about balancing those positives with the chance of having to tweak them a bit. Make sure they match up with your work style and environment, and you'll probably get the most out of them in the long run!
