I'm glad that there're other climbers who look at the clothes they wear
as "gear" too. Many climbers will have very specific, and expensive,
tools for tree work but have clothing that is the equivalent of junk.
Most of the tree climbers that use technical clothing are active in
rock/ice/mountain climbing or active in outdoor recreational sports.
I've been climbing in a pair of Arborwear prototype pants. Paul found a
material that he felt would make a good, durable pant. The material is
great! When they came in February I knew that they would be a good
winter pant. Since they are all synthetic they will dry quickly and not
make me cold if they get wet. During the jungle weather days we've had
this summer they are also comfortable. In July I wore the AW pants one
day when I would sweat them to saturation. That night I didn't wash them
and had to wear a pair of cheap [$10-$15 pair] jeans and that was a
very uncomfortable day. The pants have the AW crotch patch, double seat
and knees, redesigned top pockets, patch pockets above the knee with
flaps. The knee pockets are accessible while wearing a saddle.
Paul is hoping to have them in production by TCI. I know that he'll be
a hit when they are on the shelf. Even though they will be spendy, they
will out perform other pants.
Tom