I received mine yesterday. Two climbs in so far. My thoughts:
First climb was rough. Don’t try this in Crocs ( don’t laugh, it’s hot here) or soft rubber boots like Xtra Tuffs. You are going to need a boot with some spine to help keep the Sladder off the tree.
The actual climb was ok. Obviously I’m rusty since I have not made a climb in a while. I never was a big “aider” guy, so there was definite “pucker factor” involved.
I struggled at the top with foot space off the tree. I got through it, but struggled. Also being tall, the bending down to get the Sladder up was a PIA. I have not had any trouble “unhooking” the bottom for the next ascension. Got to height, attached rappel gear and came down. I doubt I’d ever use the Sladder to descend unless I absolutely had to.
I went back and watched his videos again. He had some techniques that I would try in the second climb.
Second climb was actually pretty smooth. Used the recommended technique for spacing and raising the Sladder. I felt much quicker and was actually at 16’ in 3 minutes. Different boots, better technique, way better climb. Pack up was a breeze.
There are couple things you can nitpick about the Sladder. Most already mentioned here. Like any method, some guys will like it, some will not. All personal preference.