CAYG Aider Question

[EricS]

For multistep aiders the webbing is what causes the issues.....gotta come up with a better material that would keep it's shape and resist spinning around moving the step. I was thinking about the coated clothes hanger cable or something similar. Open to ideas on a better material. Maybe a large diameter hemp rope or similar?

I’ve never had an issue with black diamond aiders. They can be twisted when you pull them out your pack but once straightened out they pretty much keep their shape.

 

[Weldabeast]

I've never used a store bought.... My diy ones will sometimes twist causing the left foot step to be on the right side. I guess i should stop being such a cheapskate.

 

[TNSTAAFL]

The only think I'm thinking about doing is putting some type of clip toward the foot hold so that my foot doesn't come in and out of the webbing. Could be a bad idea that proves fruitless in practice, but I hate trying to get my feet in and out of aiders. Once I get mine made (and if it works), I'll let everyone know.

How does using a knaider with sticks compare to using a single step CAYG aider?

Seems like it would give you a similar height boost and perhaps more steady feel (less prone to kickout) and require no stepping in and out of loop.

 

[DaveT1963]

I dont have kickouts? I also think trying to work a knaider or a swaider in the dark, with bulky clothing and cold hands is riskier?

 

[TNSTAAFL]

I definitely would avoid using a Swaider for the same reasons it felt unsteady (to me) with the WE steps.

I only practiced the single step CAYG aider a couple times but I thought it felt similar to using a Swaider (long loop of webbing creating potentially longer kickout swing). Could just be my perception. It is good to hear that you haven't experienced problems with this. I know you have used this approach extensively so that is some reassuring experience.

I think on my next practice session I will bring both my CAYG and my Knaider and see how they compare. Gotta get more time practicing going up and down trees either way!

 

[EricS]

I definitely would avoid using a Swaider for the same reasons it felt unsteady (to me) with the WE steps.

I only practiced the single step CAYG aider a couple times but I thought it felt similar to using a Swaider (long loop of webbing creating potentially longer kickout swing). Could just be my perception. It is good to hear that you haven't experienced problems with this. I know you have used this approach extensively so that is some reassuring experience.

I think on my next practice session I will bring both my CAYG and my Knaider and see how they compare. Gotta get more time practicing going up and down trees either way!

The downside of the knaider/swaider on wild edge stepps is the lack of a handhold. Yes you have the step itself but once standing in the swaider and going to hook your knaider that step is to low to use your upper body to help stabilize your movements. Yes you can hold the outside of the step and try to stabilize yourself but it’s a weak position.
@Weldabeast if you want to use multiple step aiders try a store bought. I recommend black diamond. I’ve seen some cmi aiders I liked also. I don’t mind it being too long. Some people say they never use the bottom of a five step but it allows me to get my boot fully inserted without having to fish around for it. On at least my black diamond aiders once I get my first foot fully inserted and weighted the rest is easy. I think the ultimate aider would be a diy project but sewn like what’s commercially available except have 18” step spacing.

 

[dpierce72]

How does using a knaider with sticks compare to using a single step CAYG aider?

Seems like it would give you a similar height boost and perhaps more steady feel (less prone to kickout) and require no stepping in and out of loop.

I ordered the knaider/swaider from JCline (it's an awesome concept ...especially for WES), but for me personally, with sticks, I just can't get it through my mind descending in cold weather (bulky clothes) in dark conditions trying to hit that small amsteel loop.

In fairness, this is my first year to mess with them, so I'm NOT the resident expert on the topic. However, I feel like a CAYG aider might fit my personality and climbing style (BEAST sticks) better.

It's always good to have options, and I'm glad I have them to continue tinkering with.

I will say, kickout with the 5-step aider is high (based on my 2 attempts lol. Experts would likely contradict my experience), and I have the scars to prove it. A 5-step is NOT on my list personally (although many love it). I'll experiment with the CAYG aider / Knaider & Swaider and think I'll find my fit between the two.

My overall goal is to decrease from 4 BEAST sticks to 3 (decreasing ~1lb) and get same height or above.

 

[Weldabeast]

if you want to use multiple step aiders try a store bought. I recommend black diamond.

Would you mind posting or sending me some photos? With generic pics online it's hard for me to tell how they are assembled

 

[EricS]

Would you mind posting or sending me some photos? With generic pics online it's hard for me to tell how they are assembled

I will. Just don’t let me forget. Commercially available ones seem to have really short steps. Not sure why because rick climbers should definitely be in better shape than the average saddlehunter. They are stiffer. The home made ones are ok for one or two steps but you are building twist in by tying the knots. Sewing also stiffens webbing a great deal.

 

[Longbowwally]

I'm going to try DaveT's moveable aider...He and I are about the same age so I'm interested....Some of the things you younger guys do just aren't for me anymore lol ....

 

[Zaccatdaddy]

I realize this is an old thread but just curious if everyone is using tubular webbing or just webbing. I was looking for camo not necessary but really like the digital. Can I use poly webbing, from strapworks, breaking strength (1200#) I believe.

 

[EricS]

You don’t have to use tubular but bluewater tubular in tan or kiwi blends in fine and costs less. Flat webbing loses more strength to knots than tubular also. If you just have to have the printed camo pattern that have it in a polyester tubular webbing that has a break strength of 2200.

 

[Zaccatdaddy]

Thank you. I’m thinking about making a continuous loop and stitching mollie (gear hanging loops). Duel propose.
might I add I’m a newbie to saddle hunting. Haven’t even received it yet. Should be any day now!!

 

[Iron_llama]

So, I'm planning on making a CAYG aider out of tubular webbing. I think i have a good plan (insert rope to stiffen loops and use garden hose to prevent chafing/abrasion). I plan in forming the rungs by tying rather than sewing. My question is, what style is recommended?

I'm not sure of the vocabulary so bear with me please.
The one type I call the "stirrup" or "cave ladder" type with parallel runs of material and perpendicular rungs. The scond type I think of as "triangle rungs", with a center run of material and loops projecting off either side.

Which is preferred? Safest? Easiest or most cost effective to DIY? Why?

Thanks.

 

[Weldabeast]

So, I'm planning on making a CAYG aider out of tubular webbing. I think i have a good plan (insert rope to stiffen loops and use garden hose to prevent chafing/abrasion). I plan in forming the rungs by tying rather than sewing. My question is, what style is recommended?

I'm not sure of the vocabulary so bear with me please.
The one type I call the "stirrup" or "cave ladder" type with parallel runs of material and perpendicular rungs. The scond type I think of as "triangle rungs", with a center run of material and loops projecting off either side.

Which is preferred? Safest? Easiest or most cost effective to DIY? Why?

Thanks.

That will be personal preference.... Some guys like ladder style and some the side step. I think also depends on the what and how and what u attaching it to

I personally like the side step triangle rung

 

[Iron_llama]

That will be personal preference.... Some guys like ladder style and some the side step. I think also depends on the what and how and what u attaching it to

I personally like the side step triangle rung

Thank you. That looks easier to tie, and to adjuat, anyway.