Petzl Sequoia saddle

[Frans]

Posted this over at the buzz but they seem more interested in other stuff...


Got a call yesterday from my friend who works there. He said the saddles have come in.
I will head up there next week and pick one up. This saddle, (yes I know it is just yet another saddle) could be a good one.

[xtremetrees]

I will probably buy a new saddle this year. Mostly what I am looking for in a saddle is space for two safties on the side D rings and comfort. If they made this saddle with bigg D's I'd consider it. I may not get what I want and have to do with small side d's as I have been for years. That saddle seems to have alot of gear loops which I like, best saddle I've seen for the price.
Hands down Petzl consumers are extreme

[Canuck]

I'm first on the list with my dealer up here. He hasn't gotten his yet.

[wiley_p]

I was tempted to go that route Frans, but I am waiting for Wesspur to get them in. Live local, buy local. Besides I'm trying out this TreeAustria3 and really digging it.:)

[Frans]

the TreeAustria is one of the few saddles which is made well and incorporates the modern climbing styles.


As for large 'D' rings, I just cant use a saddle anymore with the large Ds. Over the years, I kept hitting my 'funny bone' when handsawing. Now when that happens my arm just goes dead for awhile.

The smaller Ds stay out of my way

[MasterBlaster]

Wow, I've never done that even once.

I bet it hurts!

[okietreedude]

Tree austria 3???? Never heard of it. Post a pic!

I just got me a new TA1 couple weeks ago. I had one for about 2 yrs, then switched to the BF2, now im back on the TA. That butterfly sucked eggs. I hate the small ring in front. Not very acomodating for two biners. Doubtfull Ill ever use it again.

[top hopper]

I liked the BF....

and I immediately changed the small ring out for a larger one.

[Skwerl]

My last two saddles have been the Tree Austria Duo. But at my current rate of climbing, I won't need another saddle in this lifetime. I'd still like a pic of the TA3 though.
:D

[Frans]

The 'TA3' is still a prototype altho Fresco was selling a few at the last TCIA.
The design is still under review and the final construction will be altered according to Friedrich.

[wiley_p]

This a prototype TA3, So far I have no complaints at all. Gotta love big D's:) There are a couple of sewn loops at each end of the bridge that I ain't to clear on the idea. Other than that it is light, good support, hangs good for srt.

[Skwerl]

Is the bridge replaceable on this one? The only reason I retired my first TA was because of wear on the bridge. My second one is still in good shape only bacause I don't use it very often.

[top hopper]

Looks like the bridge is sewn directly to the rings.

[Hobby Climber]

[QUOTE=xtremetrees;206434]I will probably buy a new saddle this year. Mostly If they made this saddle with bigg D's I'd consider it.
-------------------------------


Xtremetrees,

I too prefer the larger D's on the side. I find the bigger D's easier to work with while wearing gloves, (cooler weather).

I still use the versitile saddle by Buckingham. I had to special order it with the larger D's on the side. Think it cost me an extra $20.00 and was worth it IMO.

HC

[Paul B]

I like your sticker Wiley. :)

[Bounce]

I am waiting for Wesspur to get them in
We got 'em in Friday last week Wiley, although you probably won't see them on our website for a while yet.

[wiley_p]

Well Hell's Tinklin' Bells. I'll see you in the am brother. Gotta have a high speed side by side going for the comparison.:D

[Frans]

The first batch of Sequoias will be provided with the new larger 'caritool'!
This will be for a limited time only

I am looking forward to picking mine up.
Maybe by the end of the week I will have the time to drive up there and get it.

[NickfromWI]

Seems like if one could get their mitts on those sequoia openable rings, you could hack saw the old rings off, then replace them and a the old bridge with the new replaceable rings.

love
nick

[Frans]

Seems like if one could get their mitts on those sequoia openable rings, you could hack saw the old rings off, then replace them and a the old bridge with the new replaceable rings.

love
nick


When I pick up the saddle I will check and see just how they created these opening rings.

I am curious to see if they inserted a hardened sleeve which the screw goes into, or if they just tapped/cut threads into the ring.
Also if the rings are the same diameter and thickness as the regular ones.
I have a bunch of rings and will make some of my own.

[NickfromWI]

I have a feeling they do have a sleeve and I also think they had to put something else by the threads so that the aluminum thread doesn't just "let go" of the bolt in a pull.

Just a hunch...

love
nick

[wiley_p]

went and picked up the Sequoia yesterday. Didn't get back from work in time to try it out, hopefully after the bucket job this am, I can work it some today. I did notice that the removable rings don't have a big enough gap for anything except webbing. So maybe no cord bridges? I will try and sew a bridge this weekend on the Pfaff, see if I can get the stitch pattern right.

[rumination]

Any pictures you could post of the rings would be greatly appreciated Wiley.

[Frans]

Any pictures you could post of the rings would be greatly appreciated Wiley.

Yes, please do!

[Canuck]

Got my sequoia today. I'll put it to the test tomorrow.

[Frans]

why is everyone so reluctant to post pictures of this saddle and details of the opening rings?
Jeez, pictures get posted all the time, its not THAT hard.
point, shoot, click, post!

[Canuck]

Sorry Frans. My memory card for my camera was in my laptop when it was stolen and I haven't bought a new one yet. The rings have a hard rubber insert that fills the gap. A screw goes from one side of the gap, through the insert and into the other side. I'll see what I can do about getting that new memory card so I can post some pics.

[MasterBlaster]

But the the soul of the saddle will be captured by the camera! :/:

[Frans]

But the the soul of the saddle will be captured by the camera! :/:

:lol::lol:

Now my trip has been postponed until early next week to pick up my sequoia.....:whine:

[Canuck]

Climbed in it for a bit this morning and I love it. First impression is that it is super light. Almost rock climbing harness light. Very comfortable. With minimal adjustment its almost like its not even there. No pressure points anywhere. They have the atachment points dialed in. The caritool is awesome for hanging your saw on. Even hanging my 365 on it was comfortable and it didn't seem to pull or want to move the saddle around. Now the big test is to see how durable it is.

[OTGBOSTON]

Now the big test is to see how durable it is.


I tried it on and it's lightweight and thin webbing led me to conclude durability could be a problem. I'm waiting for my local supplier to get the SRT version before I decide between it or the Flex.

[Paul B]

But the the soul of the saddle will be captured by the camera! :/:

:shifty:

[wiley_p]

Frans, I found 3 spare minutes in my workday to get these pics posted for you. ell 4 more minutes counting the time to load them. And before you you say it, I screwed up and did not get a picture of the screw. It's about a 1/2" long, fine thread.

[Frans]

bless you my son...

It looks like the screw threads into the regular alum. body of the ring?

[Canuck]

Yes, it does

[wiley_p]

So far I'm liking the TA3 just a bit more than the Sequoia. Still not digging the slanted gear loops on the Petzl. It's close though.

[No_Bivy]

those rings look big......or you have itty bitty fingers. Are they normal size..the rings I mean.:lol:

[Canuck]

They are pretty big. Bigger than a large friction saver ring.

[NickfromWI]

Woops..I was thinking they might be between the big ring and little ring on a friction saver.

Shucks.

love
nick

[High Scale]

Can you fit a seat on the TA3? Not that I ever use mine.

[wiley_p]

Highscale, they have the buckles in place on this saddle to snap a seat right on.

[Frans]

Highscale, they have the buckles in place on this saddle to snap a seat right on.

The square rectangular loops are there to hook suspenders on.

[okietreedude]

if the ta3 is anything set up like the ta1, there are suspender 'squares' and buckles like the waist buckle for seat attachment.

[High Scale]

Highscale, they have the buckles in place on this saddle to snap a seat right on.

Thanks Wiley, I like the look of the new one, my old one is looking a little sorry.

[Burnham]

Does the Sequoia carry the ANSI tag? Seems like I recall that the Petzl saddles only had CE certification.

[Frans]

Does the Sequoia carry the ANSI tag? Seems like I recall that the Petzl saddles only had CE certification.

No. the only tag I was able to find attached to the saddle is the CE tag. I will look through the documentation later to see if any other certs. have been done.


I am holding the saddle right now in my hands (well actually it is sitting over there on the coffee table) and I have already switched the bridge to Nick's bridge he made me utilizing the 'opening' rings.

Seems like a light weight saddle. The ring size is just the same as the larger alum. rings produced by Buckingham in their false crotchs.

The back pad does seem thin, but all the webbing is sewn directly through the entire back pad so it all appears fairly strong.

Robert Phillips noticed that the 45 degree gear loops on the back are sewn in a way which seems like the stitches would pull out over time.

One detail I like is the side D rings are robust and have the same double bar set up like the B'fly where the webbing will hold the Ds either in the open (forward) or closed (backward) position.
Much better IMO to have the D rings like this than the alternative of having them flop back and forth.

Bailey's is including the new LARGE plastic flat back spline tool holder with every purchase of the Sequoia for just a limited time. The thing is huge, like a carrytool on steroids.
The regular ones are a good size for me personally as they dont stick out too far and snag on stuff.
Too bad they didn't simply make the old one stronger....


As for the 'opening' alum. rings. The torx head fine threaded bolt goes through one end and is threaded into the other end.
Petzl tells me that the thread depth is exactly the same as the bolt length, so pretty much impossible to strip the threads.
In addition, when they anodized the ring, they also anodized the threads inside. So that is how they are making the threads stronger.

I own the SRT model. On the back is a flat slotted piece of hardware designed to thread suspenders through. I wish they had simply made a webbing loop so a biner could be inserted. That way the climber can strip off the suspenders easily while in the tree without any hassle.

[wiley_p]

Frans I believe the flat hardware is for their top that goes with the saddle not really for suspenders.

[Frans]

Yes your correct Wiley. I just loosly used the term 'suspenders'. It is designed to hold a Petzl strap which goes over your shoulders. This strap helps to keep the Croll in place.

Still, I don't like it when a manufacturer builds a product which forces you to only use their line of accessories. Not to mention that it is a pain to take on and off especially when you get into the tree and want to take it off.

[Stumper]

Frans, why not tie/sew a little loop to the rectangular attachment to clip you 'biner to? Those sorts of mods ain't rocket surgery.

[wiley_p]

On the note of sewing, does anyone know anything about stitch patterns? I seem to remember reading somewhere ( I just can't remember where) about different patterns and strength loss.

[Frans]

I know that 'bar' stitching requires a dedicated sewing machine and for some reason sail makers use zig-zag stitching, but other than that I dont know.
I would be interested in seeing such a chart.

Yes, Stumper. The mods have already begun on that saddle

[top hopper]

How is the "hang" in the Sequoia?

Thats the most important feature!

[Frans]

Once you get it adjusted, it seems fine.


I have to say tho, for the most part the newer 'high end' saddles are not as durable as they could be

[top hopper]

Do you have some actual working time in it yet? Or has it been just playing around until this point?

[Frans]

monday I have a large take down. Let you know after that

[Stumper]

Frans, Do you know if Petzl followed their previous design course and used Polyester webbing instead of Nylon? Strength wise there is little difference but supposedly Polyester will be more durable regarding abrasion and UV degradation. Slightly harder to melt also.

[Jamin Mayer]

When I got the T.M. saddle I thought the same. But, after some hard work it the saddle it is a different story. It is pinching my man parts and/or pushing my testicles into my stomach. :what: When I come out of the tree I often have to push a ball (or two) back into my scrotum:cry: I adjust the saddle, but it goes back to being unadjusted. If I had year round good weather, I would sew the straps in place. However, in the winter I have layers on and I have to reposition the saddle often.:|:

Should I retire it and get a Petzl? :?

[Jamin Mayer]

Is it just me.:?

[Stumper]

Jamin, You have summer clothes and winter clothes. Why do you not have a summer saddle and a winter saddle? :P

[Frans]

.....When I got the T.M. saddle

What saddle are you talking about exactly?


The thread title is 'Petzl Sequoia', is your saddle a petzl product?





.....or are you talking about the TreeMagic?


Jamin Mayer, it is best to not cross post. Think about internet 'manners'.

Here check this out:

http://www.funnieststuff.net/viewmovie.php?ad_key=AVBITMWPQACE&tracking_id=919429&id=722

[OTGBOSTON]

Whats the verdict Frans? I'm thinking of picking one up if only for comps. My D-fly is sooooo modified I don't think it would pass gear inspection:cry:

[Frans]

I noticed that the D rings are beefy and I thought this was great but when I used a cable core flip line the steel snap does not click easily onto the D ring.
But when chunking, the saddle fit very nicely and did not bind or slip down.
I also like the way the waist cinches up. On the TreeFlex, the straps are slightly different and seem to get in my way. Not on the sequoia.

Pruning a big leaf maple today, so I will have more insight.

For comps, this might be a good saddle. certainly not as durable as some other saddles out there.
The sequoia only has a CE rating, so might not pass inspection if you get a hard nosed judge checking it out.

[OTGBOSTON]

Thanks for the update. The shop I ordered it from still dosen't have it in yet:whine:

[top hopper]

I like the looks of the SRT Sequioa, I may just get rid of my treemotion and get into the Petzl, if I can get some good feedback about it.

Its all on you Frans.

[PCTREE]

OK so I gave my sequoia a try out today. only spent an hour or less in it but it instantly felt comfortable. I like the buckles and the sit of the harness feels good to me. I think Im going to like this.....

[Canuck]

I've been climbing in mine for about a week and a half now. I love it. I can honestly say that it is my most favorite saddle yet.

[top hopper]

as compared to?

[Frans]

Has anyone noticed if the saddle slips down your hips more or less than any other saddle?

[Ace76]

How does the Sequoia compare to a New tribe. I want to buy a good saddle for recreational tree climbing and rappeling. Has anyone had the opportunity to sit in both? I will be using both DdRT and SRT for climbing, if that makes a difference in saddle choice. Thanks guys. By the way, great forum. Lots of useful info for a newb like myself.

[MasterBlaster]

Welcome to the TreeHouse, brother! :beer:

[Paul B]

wilkommen Ace!

[Stumper]

Ace, I can't give you any comparison but Frans will be able to since he has used both. My gut reaction is that the New Tribe is just about unbeatable for rec climbing......not surprising when you consider that it is a rec company that also caters to pro climbers.

[Frans]

Two different saddles. Sliding bridge on the petzl and fixed D ring on the NT.

First you have to figure out which one is best for you.

If you wanna sleep in the tree, look into the webbing 'D' ring saddle models

[Ace76]

I like the sliding bridge on the Petzl and the fact that I can adjust my center of gravity within the 3 different positions(I'm top heavy). It also has another connection point in the front for SRT. I am just waiting on more opinions on its comfort.

[Frans]

remember that you are sitting in your saddle in Rec. climbs much more than you would while doing tree work. Check out the Tengu saddle:
http://www.newtribe.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=32&products_id=307

If staying upright is an issue, you might want to investigate a chest box for those long ascents This is the nicest one out there:

http://www.innermountainoutfitters.net/catalogentry.php?subcategoryid=13&page=all&catalogentryid=436&brand=PMI

[top hopper]

Still hoping for some feedback on this harness......

something a bit more than " I like it alot"

[No_Bivy]

A pic of someone wearing it would be helpful....

[Canuck]

as compared to?


Bfly 2 and Master 2

[Canuck]

Has anyone noticed if the saddle slips down your hips more or less than any other saddle?

I am genetically plauged with no ass and no hips. Every saddle I have ever owned slides down without suspenders, except the sequoia. That is probably why I like it so much.

[Frans]

A pic of someone wearing it would be helpful....

Yer wish is my command (at least in this case anyway).

I will have some Monday for ya.


Am still working on the complete review

[No_Bivy]

dudes at the buzz are whining about labels...The harness will hold the weight, CE...probably better then an ansi tag anywho. Oh well, Frans...you better send it to me....it might break under your bulk:lol::/::Pjus kidding

[MasterBlaster]

Hahahaha.

[OTGBOSTON]

Yer wish is my command (at least in this case anyway).

I will have some Monday for ya.


Am still working on the complete review

:/: I'm wondering how you think it compares to the Tree flex?

[Frans]

:/: I'm wondering how you think it compares to the Tree flex?

First thought?

It cinches up best when worn high on the waist which is what the tf talks about being against basic ergonomics.

more later kind of distracted right now

[No_Bivy]

pics:/:

[OTGBOSTON]

Mine was shipped on Monday, should have it by the end of the week. I've heard that one before:roll:

For what ever reason the podium seat I ordered wasn't shipped at the same time, but was shipped today!

I've got a little job to do for a friend this weekend, I'll report back and get some pics (fingers crossed)

[Bodean]

Warning Massive Derail,

Has anyone tried the Black Widow?
Looks a bit snug in the crotch from the picture in Wesspur.

But I like how simple and light it looks.

[top hopper]

Ha-

That'll be the day....

climbing in a saddle called "The Black Widow", I'll pass.

[OTGBOSTON]

weak attempt at a lightweight saddle, IMO loooks too much like the original nut-crunching master.

[Frans]

Actually it feels much the same as the B'fly11. Look closer you will see.


The lack of gear attachments put me off as well as the lack of any improvements over a now old ('B-fly) design....

I used it, and it was o.k. but not any where near the TF.

[Ace76]

Actually it feels much the same as the B'fly11. Look closer you will see.


The lack of gear attachments put me off as well as the lack of any improvements over a now old ('B-fly) design....

I used it, and it was o.k. but not any where near the TF.

Are you refering to the sequoia or " Black Widow" from previous post?

[Frans]

Black Widow

[OTGBOSTON]

Are you preferring the treeflex over the sequoia Frans?

[wiley_p]

Myself, I am liking the TA3 quite a bit more than the Sequoia. I'm still not digging it for removals.

[Frans]

Are you preferring the treeflex over the sequoia Frans?

Well, hard to say yet. But yes, maybe.

[OTGBOSTON]

Just picked up my sequoia srt version. I'll get it set up tonight and hopefully use it for a job tomorrow if this friggin weather breakes.......

just going through the literature that came with it the thing is only rated to 15kn, WTF?

[OTGBOSTON]

feels real good, snug, light. Very comfortable to sit in. tried to get a good pic of the screw. added my swivel off of my old d-fly. I'll take it out for a test flight tomorrow, rain or shine.

[top hopper]

Did you get the chest suspender thingymajiggys?

[OTGBOSTON]

I did, the secur, not liking it. It'll probably take some time to dial it in right, maybe someone here has some pointers?

[top hopper]

I cant, but Ive been eyeballing the setup myself. Looking forward to your feedback after use.

I notice in the one pic that the bridge is way up in your face almost.

[OTGBOSTON]

I notice in the one pic that the bridge is way up in your face almost.

if you look real close at the forth pic, strap in the middle, on the right, there are three spots to put the rings to adjust the way you hang. I'll get that sorted out tomorrow.

[KentuckySawyer]

I've never climbed in the TA3. The leg loops don't have buckles and I couldn't get my boots through the loops. I don't know if there are different sizes, but the one we were trying out was WAY small.

The Sequoia looks interesting. 15kN?

[OTGBOSTON]

This thing rocks!!!!:D

I was climbing on a dragonfly and always preferred a batton style saddle (I have the batton attachment on order form petzl) The leg straps gave me a few nut crunching moments of discomfort, but I believe I have that adjusted away now. It was snug when I started and snug when I finished, big improvement over the d-fly. Lighter, not sure by how much but noticably so. I've heard wearing the flex is like it isn't even there, thats how I'd describe this harness. the angled gear loops on the hips came in handy, I didn't stow anything there to start but ended up using them throughout the climb. My camera stinks, and my camera guy was also my ground guy so there weren't as many good action pics as I had hoped.

I think Petzl has a winner here.....

[MasterBlaster]

Cool!!! Nice looking, too.

[OTGBOSTON]

some upclose of the gear loops, etc.

[Bodean]

Actually it feels much the same as the B'fly11. Look closer you will see.


The lack of gear attachments put me off as well as the lack of any improvements over a now old ('B-fly) design....

I used it, and it was o.k. but not any where near the TF.

Thanks, that would put me off too.
I like gear attachements.

[Bearclaw]

How does the sequoia compare to the glide II saddle?

[Frans]

How does the sequoia compare to the glide II saddle?

The Sequoia, the TreeMotion, the TreeFlex, are all what is known as 'hybrid' saddles.

All of them tout the advantages of light weight, and a substantial advantage of having designs which are suited to the climber who desires a floating bridge, multiple gear loops, and leg support designs which allow the climber's legs to move freely.

The Buckingham Glide is a saddle which attempts to incorporate these designs but in a more durable saddle design.

My main complaint about the Glide is that the bridge design is faulty in that it is very restrictive. The bridge attachment points are bulky which get hung up when your climbing line slides to one end or the other. Buckingham 'solved' this issue with putting rubber washers on each end to prevent the climbing line ring (or biners), from touching the very end of the bridge.
The Glide saddle back is stiffer (yes more durable) but it results in a poor fitting back pad which slides down over the climber's hips and has to be pulled up continuously. Also the Glide webbing straps dont stay put (for me) and have to be worked at to maintain the 'setting' because they loosen. The buckles are large, and when I used the saddle in work, they would bite into the flesh of my legs, and stomach.

Some climbers really like the Glide. Search through the forums here and you will see some pictures of Old Monkey wearing this saddle. I think some good ones are in his thread about shoveling snow off of a roof.

When you look at the picture, you will see that the saddle is hanging pretty low on Old Monkey's hips.

For him, this saddle works. It is all a matter of personal preference.
for me, this is unacceptable.

ALL OF WHAT I JUST WROTE IS MY PERSONAL OPINION

[OTGBOSTON]

How does the sequoia compare to the glide II saddle?


It doesn't have an ansi tag like the glide:|:

[Frans]

It doesn't have an ansi tag like the glide:|:

Are you an employee or have employees? Thats the only time it would matter.

Seriously, it is really only a tag. It DOES NOT mean the saddle is in any way weaker or inferior.

[Bearclaw]

Thanks frans! I don't like movement in my saddle as far as webbing loosening. My Master II will not stay "snug". I can't stitch the webbing because then you couldn't get the saddle on or off.

After reading your points, I would say that the sequoia is definiately the saddle I will get. It's cheaper too!

[OTGBOSTON]

Are you an employee or have employees? Thats the only time it would matter.

Seriously, it is really only a tag. It DOES NOT mean the saddle is in any way weaker or inferior.

I am both actually:)

I get that it dosen't change the safety of the saddle....I just don't want to get bounced from a comp because of a little tag. I started another thread......for my own sanity:|:

[Frans]

I can't stitch the webbing because then you couldn't get the saddle on or off.


You might want to know that real tree men dont take off their saddle...

[No_Bivy]

I want this saga to end............CE is good enough for me:D
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[NickfromWI]

I had to go to Bishop today to get some Blaze. I finally got to hang in both versions of the Sequoia while I was there. Very light weight, but still felt secure. The dee rings look huge in the pictures I've seen, but are very normal sized in real life. They are just a hair larger than the small dee's on my master II.

It felt comfortable hanging in it (both models). If you know you won't use a chest harness and all that stuff, just go for the basic version. The SRT has more buckles and is more cumbersome. The basic model is very streamlined.

The buckles are neat, but would be awkward for the first couple days. No biggy.

All in all, seems great. I can't wait to give the TreeFlex another try. Maybe the TreeMotion, too.

love
nick

[Frans]

The side D rings on the sequoia are FATTER in diameter, not so much larger.

I found that clipping and unclipping with a alum. locking snap took just a hair more attention.

[Burnham]

The side D rings on the sequoia are FATTER in diameter, not so much larger.

I found that clipping and unclipping with a alum. locking snap took just a hair more attention.

Room on those D's to double lanyard, Frans? I know you and I may be the only climbers in the universe that do so, but still...:D

[Frans]

Yes. It is just that the D itself is thicker...

[Burnham]

Great, thanks.

[OTGBOSTON]

It felt comfortable hanging in it (both models). If you know you won't use a chest harness and all that stuff, just go for the basic version. The SRT has more buckles and is more cumbersome. The basic model is very streamlined.



not sure what you mean by the Nick. SRT version has one LESS buckle.

I pick up my podium seat (batton) tomorrow. Pics to follow.....

[OTGBOSTON]

got the podium, makes the most comfortable saddle I have ever owned:D. Wish I could say it wasn't expensive...........

[OTGBOSTON]

its kind of big, and kind of heavy, but will get plenty of use. More comfortable than my living room couch!:D

[MasterBlaster]

Wow, it IS "kinda" big!

[OTGBOSTON]

f-in huge actually. I'd never use it for work but the thing is super comfortable. So It'll be good for when I 'tech' comps and for rec climbs........It is like sitting on a couch8)

[Frans]

Is it really supposed to attach to the gold rings?

[OTGBOSTON]

Is it really supposed to attach to the gold rings?


dunno? it could also go onto the unused webbing holes that are not occupied by the rings.

the pic shows it going to the front attachment(srt thingy) and to the lifeline.

[TreeRhino]

Just got my SRT version. I dig it so far. Just climbed a little to get the feel of it. Really like the SRT attributes of it. As a climber who has always had a saddle with a bowsun seat, the leg straps will take a little getting used to.

Any advice on setting the leg straps up to avoid the pinching?

Also curious about the rings. Is locktite necessary? And once I lock tite them, will it be a huge deal to get them undone again?

Finally, anyone put a hitchclimber on the bridge? Does it fit?

[sotc]

use the right loctite and youll be ok

[TreeRhino]

use the right locktite and youll be ok

What would you reccomend?

[sotc]

http://www.henkelna.com/cps/rde/xchg/henkel_us/hs.xsl/3533_USE_HTML.htm?countryCode=us&BU=ut&parentredDotUID=0000000H7Y&redDotUID=productfinder&param1=subapplicationRedDotUID%3D00000002IP%7Cmode %3Dadvanced%7CapplicationRedDotUID%3D0000000276%7C x%3D0%7Cy%3D733%7CpageIndex%3D0%7Caction%3Dsearch% 7C

222 is what id use

[Frans]

Blue Lock-tite

[Bearclaw]

Just got my SRT version. I dig it so far. Just climbed a little to get the feel of it. Really like the SRT attributes of it. As a climber who has always had a saddle with a bowsun seat, the leg straps will take a little getting used to.

Any advice on setting the leg straps up to avoid the pinching?

Also curious about the rings. Is locktite necessary? And once I lock tite them, will it be a huge deal to get them undone again?

Finally, anyone put a hitchclimber on the bridge? Does it fit?

The hitchclimber works great, the mouse is too small and the bridge rubs on the side plates.

[Bearclaw]

Well a couple of days ago, Jerry Roose stopped by to visit me with his truck of goodies from Sherril and Vermeer. I was able to try out and climb in both the sequoia and the glide (Sherrils deluxe version with the extra thick padding. Red and black colors.)

I liked how light weight the sequoia was, and when on the ground it felt as if I was wearing nothing at all. However when hanging in the saddle, I had no support in the upper back of the belt. (The sequoia has two straps that run around the back similar to the more advanced saddles like the TM.) To me it was very uncomfortable in the tree. Also the gold ring on the left side kept snagging the quick release of the belt and would dig into my stomach. This was somewhat fixed by super cinching the belt. I also did not like that the belt quick release was hard to unclip when snug, this is a design flaw of the way the clips work. For me I had to loosen the belt before I could unclip it. I don't like that you have to constantly adjust the settings. It seems to me that over time, it could wear out the friction buckle. (I had problems with my Master II loosening up all the time.) I did like all the different ways you could set up the saddle, however, not too sure about hanging my saw on the back instead of the side of my saddle. You could still hang the saw on the side, but it's made to hang from the back.

The glide was a little heavier, 5 lbs. instead of the sequioa's 3. It was noticeable, but not too much. I love the bridge on the glide and how the quick clips work. Most notable is the comfort of the glide. By far the most comfortable saddle I have ever tried. I did not have any problems with pinching in the crotch, (loose leg straps help with that). Numerous attachement points. The best part is I can walk without my leg straps catching on each other. (The master II was horrible in that respect.) The glide is super easy to get in and out of, and once set, you never have to change a thing. I have not had any problems with straps loosening, and the saddle stays were I put it the whole day. (It doesn't spin around my waist or fall down like the Master II would, this could be due to the bridge though.)

In the end, I went with the glide. Normally I would purchase through Wesspur, but I couldn't beat Sherrils price. The one thing about the sequoia that instantly turned me off was the ring getting caught on the quick release and pushing into my stomach. (I am not a big guy and I still had problems with this. 180# 5'9".)

[Bearclaw]

You might want to know that real tree men dont take off their saddle...

My saddle doubles as a swing for my GF.:D:D

[squisher]

My saddle doubles as a swing for my GF.:D:D

To much information!!!

Unless you're gonna post pics!:lol:

[rangerdanger]

Quick question. I'm looking at getting a new saddle, but having a really hard time on which too choose. I'm coming from a Master's Sherrill Deluxe (Just didn't work out for me, so I sold it too our main climber who really likes it) and the Petzl Sequoia is on my list, along with the new Weaver Cougar and a Blair Ultralight.

Now, I've sat in all of the saddles and really like all of them. I had planned on going with the Petzl, but then I was reading some posts that this isn't the greatest harness for carrying a chain saw with. Mostly, I'll just be using an MS200T or the MS192T, nothing much bigger than that. (I'm 16, Dad's just started training me with in tree chain saw use, so only small saws for now) Just trying too make sure it'll hold the saw ok.

And the other thing I'm stuck on is the DdRT or the SRT model. I'm just getting into SRT, plus I want to be able to add the Shoulder Straps later on, and I heard only the SRT model can do that. Just one question on the SRT though, is it a cinch belt. If so, is it easy enough too do and undo. I know with my Master's, that was one problem I had with it. It was always hard to undo the belt after a climb, but when I tried the Tree Flex, I liked that cinch belt. Just grab the strap on each side and pull. Very simple and snug.

Thanks everyone!

[sotc]

i just came from the blair saddle to the sequoia. i love the blair saddle and they last a long time but the sequoia is nice. the buckles cinch and un cinch easily and id go srt for the little extra money if you think youd use srt at all

[treesandsurf]

Rangerdanger, as far as the chainsaw goes I wouldn't worry about it. I've carried larger saws on my sequoia without any issue. Make sure and order a caritool for your clip when you purchase any saddle. Having shoulder straps helps carrying larger saws on any saddle, but the 200t and 192t aren't going to be a problem.

I have the SRT and the cinch belt is great, tightens up and releases quickly. I prefer it as there is not a clip to pinch your upper area (or fuda :)) on. I highly recommend this saddle.

jp:D

[OTGBOSTON]

I highly recommend this saddle.


what he said...

[rangerdanger]

Thanks guys!! I'll probaly end up ordering the SRT Sequoia, now that I know the cinch belt is great! Can't wait to place my order and get this thing and try it out!

One question though, what set-up do you guys run for the bridge. When I tried it on in St. Louis, they had the swivel, which I really liked. But at the moment I can't afford one, so what other set-ups can I run. Will the Mickey pulley work??

[MasterBlaster]

You brought up a damn valid point, Frans. No need to delete your post.

[Frans]

You brought up a damn valid point, Frans. No need to delete your post.

Well, it just seemed kind of lame. It was rightfully pointed out that anyone can say they are whoever they want to on the internet.


But I have problems with talking to minors about safety stuff. Or much of anything to tell the truth :D
So I deleted my post so I am out of the picture. Interesting questions, seems like good guy also.

[Old Monkey]

Well I have used my Sequoia saddle for two days now and I know it is still early but I am surprised that it isn't as comfortable as my Glide. To be fair my Glide wasn't comfortable until I modified it some and it has always had problems with the belts loosening. No one has said anything flattering about the Glide saddle on line that I have read so I have assumed that it sucked and it just didn't other me because I am not picky. Trying a pretty, new saddle has made realize that that is not the case. I haven't played around with the adjustment so much on the Sequoia yet so this is not my final judgement. I spent the cash, I will try hard to make this my everyday saddle. The main problems I have with it are that it is uncomfortable to hang in and that the rings of the bridge are too close together making the floating D action almost imperceptible. The rings are in the middle setting and I will change them next week to the widest setting but that only gives a little bit more play.

[DMc]

Darin, Which model did you get? I am in a very similar position to you in that I just bought a new Sequoia but the SRT so I could learn single rope techniques. I've been using the Glide for several years, and for an all around saddle, I really like it. I also had to modify it. I had troubles with the straps loosing adjustment so I just picked an adjustment size and hot glued the strap down so it wouldn't move. :lol: Worked great!

I also find the switch to the Sequoia more different than I would have thought. I don't find it particularly uncomfortable but those big rings on the bridge are more noticeable than I would have guessed. I think it is a fine saddle so will give it more time. Frankly, I have never had a saddle that I was satisfied with until I did modify it.

Dave

[No_Bivy]

i like mine.......

[rfwoodvt]

I think it is a fine saddle so will give it more time. Frankly, I have never had a saddle that I was satisfied with until I did modify it.

Dave

I'd have to agree with you on this one Dave. I've been climbing on my sequoia now for about two months. It took about 6 weeks before I was truly satisfied. Not that there was anything wrong with it, but I just hadn't been able to full "experience" it, if that makes any sense.

Anyhow, as with any saddle it has short comings but for the $250 I spent on it, it is definitely the best bang for my saddle buck yet.

I don't see any need for me to get anything different any time soon.

Rick

[MasterBlaster]

Welcome to the TreeHouse, Rick! :beer:

[Old Monkey]

I certainly going to give the saddle some time before I make my final decision on it. I have the SRT version without the croll ascender. I like having shoulder straps on all my saddles.

[MasterBlaster]

I'm liking the hell outta my new Versatile, but that's neither here nor there.

[Old Monkey]

That's good to hear Butch.

[rangerdanger]

Well, I went with the Cougar instead of the Sequoia and I think I'm starting to regret it. For one, I ordered a size too big. I ordered a Medium (that's what my Master's was) and I'm the last eye in the belt and it's still loose when hanging from it. Plus, I'm starting to shrink down in waist size.

Now, normally this would be an easy send back and get a small, but the other thing I've found while climbing in it is the leg straps. These things won't stay where there supposed to, resulting a marks on my legs, and a very, very uncomfortable fit. (plus the velcro seems to be getting caught on every branch I pass) I'm still trying to work things out with Bounce on here about that, and returning it, but in the end, I think I'm going to go and try the Sequoia. In St. Louis, the Sequoia felt great, with no leg strap problems.

(Plus I want to be able to do SRT. After the last two days, footlocking the tail and body thrusting, I'm really trying to go SRT)