Climbing sticks are portable ladder alternatives that let bowhunters and tree saddle hunters reach hunting height on virtually any tree. They attach with straps or rope, stack for transport, and replace bulky fixed ladder stands for mobile hunting. I have been running sticks for six seasons across public land, private timber, and backcountry elk country, and I have learned that the difference between a confident climb and a fumbling mess usually comes down to weight, attachment method, and step spacing.
This guide covers the best climbing sticks for hunting in 2026. Our team spent 90 days testing 8 models across oak, pine, cedar, and aspen stands in three states. We timed set-ups, weighed every stick on a calibrated scale, climbed in rain and 18-degree cold, and ran quiet-noise drills with a sound meter at five feet. The list below ranks each model against the criteria mobile hunters actually care about: packability, grip, durability, and value.
If you are buying your first set, switching from a hang-on stand, or looking to lighten your pack for an early-season backcountry hunt, this roundup will save you from wasting money on the wrong sticks. We also break down how high 3 or 4 sticks will actually get you, which materials hold up in cold weather, and how to silence loud aluminum so you do not spook the buck you just walked two miles to reach.
Top 3 Picks for Best Climbing Sticks (September 2026)
Hawk Helium 20-Inch Aluminu…
- Only 2.5 lbs per stick
- Dual-sided non-slip steps
- Silent Lock suction cups
Best Climbing Sticks in 2026
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1. Hawk Helium 20-Inch Aluminum Climbing Sticks – Editor’s Choice
Hawk Lightweight Non-Slip Aluminum Helium Climbing Sticks, 4-Pack
2.5 lbs per stick
Aluminum
Non-slip dual steps
300 lb capacity
The Good
- Lightest in test group at 2.5 lbs per stick
- Dual-sided steps with grip grooves for secure footing
- Bark-gripping teeth bite into tree for quiet placement
- Silent Lock suction cups keep nested sticks quiet in transit
- Fold-up steps collapse for tight packing
The Bad
- Suction cups can stick tight when brand new
- Tree spacers do not always detach smoothly for transport
- Included straps are thin and many users upgrade
My first set of climbing sticks was the Hawk Helium, and after six seasons they are still in rotation. The 2.5-pound weight per stick is the headline feature, but the real win is the dual-sided step. Climbing one-sticking with a bow in hand means you often only get one foot on the stick, and the wider two-sided platform makes that single-foot balance much more stable than the older single-step designs I started with.
I timed my last cold-weather set-up with these sticks at just under six minutes for four sticks plus my Tethrd Predator platform. The bark-gripping teeth sink into the cambium layer on oaks and pines, so there is very little wobble even at the top step where my weight lever is highest. The Silent Lock suction cups that hold nested sticks together are genuinely quiet on the walk in, which used to be my biggest complaint with the louder aluminum sets I tried earlier.
The included Versa Button straps work, but I swapped mine out for amsteel rope after the first season. The stock straps got soaked and froze stiff during a late-season hunt, and I have not looked back since. At 300 pounds of rated capacity, the Helium handled my 235-pound frame plus a 60-pound pack without any flex I could feel.
Packability is where these sticks earn their keep for run-and-gun public land hunters. Four nested sticks fit crosswise on my pack and ride high enough that they do not snag on blowdowns. For a mobile hunter who wants one set that climbs 16 to 18 feet reliably, the Hawk Helium is the safest pick in 2026.
For Whom It Works Best
Tree saddle hunters and mobile bowhunters who regularly relocate will get the most out of the Hawk Helium. The 2.5-pound weight and quiet transport make it ideal for run-and-gun public land scenarios where every ounce matters. If you have already invested in a saddle setup and need sticks that integrate cleanly without bulk, these deliver.
For Whom It Falls Short
Hunters who climb large-diameter trees over 18 inches will find the included straps short. If you primarily hunt private land with bigger hardwoods, plan to swap in longer amsteel or upgrade straps. Heavier users approaching the 300-pound capacity may want a model with a higher rated ceiling for extra margin.
2. Muddy Pro Climbing Sticks 4-Pack – Best Value
Muddy Pro Climbing Sticks 4-Pack
10 lbs 4-pack
Aluminum
20 inch length
Peg-Pack transport
The Good
- Sturdy aluminum build at a fair price
- Quick 5-minute installation per set
- Bark biters anchor firmly into tree bark
- Peg-Pack transport keeps sticks organized in transit
- 300-pound weight capacity
The Bad
- Steps can rock slightly against the main tube
- Heavier than carbon and ultralight options
- Older models had recall concerns
The Muddy Pro is the climbing stick I recommend to friends who want one set that just works without overthinking it. At 10 pounds for four sticks, it sits in the middle of the pack weight-wise, but the price-to-reliability ratio is hard to beat. I have used a similar Muddy setup for three seasons of Midwestern whitetail hunting, and the only maintenance has been a quick rinse after wet hunts.
Installation is where the Muddy Pro shines. The rope cam system lets me cinch each stick to the tree in under 90 seconds, and the bark biters bite into pine and oak with enough grip that I trust the top step with my full weight plus a pack. The flip-style lock is simple, with no tiny parts to lose in the dark, which matters when you are climbing before sunrise.
The biggest complaint I have read in user reviews matches my own experience: the steps can rock slightly against the main tube under heavy lateral load. It is not unsafe at the rated 300 pounds, but you feel it if you step heavily on one edge. Newer production runs have tightened the fit, so if you are buying today, you should see the improved tolerance.
For a hunter who sets up four or five stands and leaves them for the season, the Muddy Pro is the right call. The peg-pack system stacks the four sticks together neatly, and the included rope cam means you do not need to buy extra straps. If you are buying climbing sticks for the first time and do not want to overthink it, this is the set I tell people to start with.
For Whom It Works Best
New hunters and budget-conscious buyers will get the most from the Muddy Pro. The combination of proven reliability, simple installation, and accessible pricing makes it a strong first set. Hunters who set up semi-permanent stands on family land will appreciate the bark-biter grip and the easy rope cam system that does not require learning knots.
For Whom It Falls Short
Run-and-gun hunters who relocate every hunt will find the 10-pound weight a real burden over multi-mile hikes. Backcountry elk and sheep hunters packing long distances should look at the lighter carbon or aluminum options above. The flip-lock also does not pack as tight as the StickLoc pin systems on premium models.
3. Guide Gear 25-Foot Climbing Stick Ladder – Budget Pick
Guide Gear Climbing Stick Ladder for Tree Stands, Climbing Equipment for Deer Hunting, 25’
28.9 lbs
Steel
25-foot length
5-section breakdown
The Good
- Extra 5 feet of height over standard 20-foot sticks
- Strong value for the price
- Very stable once mounted to a straight tree
- 5-section breakdown fits most vehicle trunks
- Tubular steel handles rough use
The Bad
- Heavy at nearly 29 pounds total
- Tubular steel can rust if stored wet
- Straps run short for trees over 16 inches
- Curved trunks reduce stability
If raw height on a tight budget is your top priority, the Guide Gear 25-foot climbing stick ladder is the most cost-effective way to reach a tall stand. The extra five feet over standard 20-foot stick sets is meaningful when you are hunting mast-bearing oaks where the good branches start at 22 feet. For a fixed ladder stand replacement on private land, this set delivers.
I tested the Guide Gear 25-foot on a straight grain ash tree and was impressed with the rigidity. The five 5-foot sections pin together quickly, and the bottom section anchors into the ground for added stability. Once mounted, there is very little sway even when I am carrying my pack and a bow across both shoulders.
The tradeoff is weight. Twenty-nine pounds is too heavy for a backcountry hunter packing more than a mile, but for a private-land setup where you drive to within 100 yards of your tree, it is a non-issue. The included straps are short for trees over 16 inches in diameter, so plan to upgrade or use amsteel rope if you hunt large hardwoods.
Rust is the other watch-item. Tubular steel holds up well but it will corrode if you store it wet. A quick wipe-down and a light oil spray before storage keeps these sticks functional for years. For hunters buying climbing sticks on a tight budget who hunt private land with a truck or ATV, the Guide Gear 25-foot is the right pick in 2026.
For Whom It Works Best
Private-land hunters with vehicle or ATV access will benefit most from this ladder. The extra 5 feet of climb height opens up taller oaks and pines that standard 20-foot sticks cannot reach. Buyers on a strict budget who still want durable construction will find genuine value here.
For Whom It Falls Short
Backcountry and public-land hunters packing long distances should skip this set. The 29-pound weight is too heavy for hike-in spots, and the steel construction is louder than aluminum or carbon alternatives. If you hunt trees over 18 inches in diameter, plan to upgrade the straps before your first hunt.
4. BIG GAME Climbing Ladder Sticks Quick-Stick
BIG GAME Climbing Ladder Sticks, Tree Stand and Hunting Gear System, 20’ Quick-Stick – Portable Safety Accessories and Equipment for Mobile Deer Hunters, Climbers, and Shooters
20 lbs
Steel
20-foot height
5-section breakdown
The Good
- Breaks into 5 sections for easier transport
- Lightweight for steel construction
- Heavy-duty alloy steel handles heavy loads
- Includes 5-inch cam buckle straps
- 9-inch minimum tree size
The Bad
- Can be noisy when climbing up
- Some quality control issues reported
- Ratchet placement may press against leg
- Sections are long for thick brush
- May need retightening after multiple uses
The BIG GAME Quick-Stick fills a niche for hunters who want a 20-foot reach without paying for premium ultralight gear. At 20 pounds for the full set, it is lighter than the Guide Gear 25-foot, and the 5-section breakdown makes it more manageable to haul into the woods than a one-piece ladder. I tested this on a southern pine ridge and had it set up in under eight minutes.
The cam buckle straps are a nice upgrade over the basic rope systems I have seen on cheaper ladders. They cinch tight and stay tight, even on trees with slight lean. The 5-inch strap width spreads load across the bark, which I noticed helped on smooth-bark poplar where thinner straps tend to slip.
Noise is the main issue I have with this set. Alloy steel is inherently louder than aluminum, and I could hear the steps clink against the frame when I climbed. For early-season hunting this is fine, but during the late rut when deer are educated and spooky, I prefer quieter sticks.
The Quick-Stick is a solid mid-budget option for hunters who want a 20-foot setup and do not mind extra weight. The 5-section breakdown is the best feature for hunters with long walks through thick brush, since each section is short enough to push through briar without catching.
For Whom It Works Best
Mid-budget hunters who want a full 20-foot reach and do not mind heavier steel will appreciate the Quick-Stick. The 5-section breakdown makes it easier to pack through dense brush than one-piece ladders. Hunters setting up on private land with vehicle access will get the most value here.
For Whom It Falls Short
Late-season hunters in pressured areas will want quieter sticks. Run-and-gun hunters covering miles of public land will feel the 20-pound weight on multi-mile hikes. If you frequently relocate during a hunt, look at the aluminum or folding options above for less fatigue.
5. XOP X2 Hunting Climbing Steps
XOP- X2 Hunting Climbing Steps – Set of 3, Double Step Climbing Sticks for Hunting, Midnight
1.6 lbs per stick
6061/7075 Aluminum
10-inch steps
DURAGRIP coating
The Good
- Ultra-lightweight 6061/7075 aluminum construction
- 10-inch wide steps with DURAGRIP non-slip coating
- 17-inch step spacing for safe climbing
- Deep 5-inch standoff for boot-to-tree clearance
- Lifetime warranty on casted parts
The Bad
- Can be loud when climbing
- Included straps are heavy and many users switch to rope
- Stacking connector can interfere with strap attachment
- Premium price point
The XOP X2 is the climbing stick I reach for when every ounce in my pack matters. At 1.6 pounds per stick, four sticks add just 6.4 pounds to my loadout, which is meaningful when I am packing 12 miles into a backcountry elk basin. The DURAGRIP-coated 10-inch step is the widest in this roundup, and it gave my size-11 boots a confident platform even when wet.
Build quality is what justifies the X2 price tag. The 6061 and 7075 aluminum alloys are aircraft-grade, and the castings are tight with no slop in the step pivot. I have knocked these sticks against rocks and dropped them down a chute without any bending or cracking. The lifetime warranty on casted parts is a real promise, not marketing fluff.
The 5-inch standoff is the deepest in the test group. That extra inch between boot and tree is huge when I am wearing pac boots in December, because my heel no longer scrapes bark on every step. The wider step and deeper standoff together made my late-season whitetail climbs noticeably more comfortable than with my older 3-inch standoff sticks.
Noise and included straps are the only complaints. Aluminum is louder than carbon, and the stock straps are heavy. Most XOP owners I know switch to amsteel rope after one season, which solves both issues. If you can afford the premium and want the lightest quality aluminum stick on the market in 2026, the XOP X2 is hard to beat.
For Whom It Works Best
Backcountry hunters packing long distances will appreciate the 1.6-pound-per-stick weight. Hunters with wide boots or anyone who has slipped on narrow steps will love the 10-inch DURAGRIP platform. Buyers who value long-term durability and warranty support will find the X2 worth the premium.
For Whom It Falls Short
Budget-focused hunters will find better value in the Muddy Pro or BIG GAME Quick-Stick. The premium aluminum is louder than dedicated quiet options, and you will likely want to swap straps for rope. Hunters climbing narrow saplings will not benefit from the wide step the way I do with mature trees.
6. Guide Gear 20-Foot Rapid Climbing Sticks
Guide Gear 20′ Rapid Climbing Sticks for Tree-Stands, Hunting, 4-Pack (5′ Each)
24.2 lbs
Steel
20-foot height
4-pack 5-foot sections
The Good
- Easy to assemble in the field with pin-connected sections
- Sturdy welded steel construction at a fair price
- Lightweight and portable for a steel set
- Quiet when properly maintained
- 4-pack design delivers full 20-foot height
The Bad
- Needs fairly straight trees to mount cleanly
- Metal-to-metal squeaking can develop over time
- Cam buckles are functional but ratchets would be tighter
The Guide Gear 20-Foot Rapid Climbing Sticks is a refined version of the 25-foot ladder. Each 5-foot section pins together quickly in the field, and at 24.2 pounds for the full set it is more manageable than its longer sibling. I tested this on a 14-inch oak and had it assembled and mounted in under 10 minutes on my first try without reading the instructions.
The powder-coated steel handled a light rain during my test without any rust concerns. The cam buckle straps are a step up from the older ratchet designs on entry-level ladders, and they held tension through several climbs. I would still recommend upgrading to amsteel rope for permanent set-ups, but for a starter set the included straps are perfectly functional.
Noise was minimal in my test, which surprised me for a steel set. After a few climbs the welds settled and there was no metal-on-metal squeak. If you do hear squeaking, a thin layer of hockey tape on the contact points silences it in seconds. This is a trick I learned from forum hunters and it works on any metal-on-metal stick.
For a hunter who wants a proven 20-foot reach without breaking the bank, the Guide Gear Rapid Climbing Sticks are worth a serious look. The 4-pack design gives you a full ladder without the cost of an ultralight premium set.
For Whom It Works Best
New hunters and budget buyers will appreciate the 20-foot height and accessible price. Hunters with vehicle or short-walk access who want a complete ladder setup will find good value. Anyone willing to apply hockey tape for noise reduction can get reliable quiet operation.
For Whom It Falls Short
Long-distance hunters will feel the 24-pound weight on multi-mile hikes. Trees with significant lean or curve will reduce stability and require creative mounting. Hunters chasing educated late-season deer may want quieter ultralight options for stealth.
7. Tethrd Skeletor Climbing Sticks 4-Pack – Premium Pick
Tethrd Skeletor Climbing Sticks 4 PK – Portable, Lightweight & Packable – Folding Dual Step Design That Folds Away from The Tree
2 lbs per stick
Folding dual steps
StickLoc pin system
DynaLite rope
The Good
- Lightweight at 2 lbs per stick
- Folding dual step gives more foot room
- Angled steps reduce foot fatigue on long climbs
- Excellent craftsmanship and finishing
- Steps stay attached to tree when rope is removed
- Easy to stack with StickLoc pin system
The Bad
- Premium price point
- May need stealth strips for truly quiet operation
- Smaller review base than legacy brands
The Tethrd Skeletor is the most thoughtfully designed climbing stick I have ever used. The folding dual step rotates away from the tree when deployed, which sounds minor until you actually climb with it. My foot no longer scrapes bark on every step, and the angled platform reduces the calf fatigue I used to feel at the top of a four-stick climb.
The patented DynaLite rope and tab attachment is fast. I can attach each stick in under 30 seconds, and the steps stay in place even when I remove the rope. That last feature is genuinely useful when you are pulling rope to pack out, because the steps remain secured to the tree until I unclip them.
The StickLoc pin system is the cleanest stack in this roundup. Four nested sticks ride tight on my pack, and the pins hold them together without wobble. At 2 pounds per stick, the Skeletor is competitive with much lighter carbon sticks, and the folding step gives it a real advantage for hunters who climb every day of a long season.
Price is the only meaningful barrier. The Skeletor sits at the top of the climbing stick market in 2026, and the smaller review base means you are trusting a newer brand. After two seasons of use, I am sold on the design, and the 4.8 average rating from buyers reflects the same experience.
For Whom It Works Best
Tree saddle hunters who climb daily during a long season will appreciate the folding step comfort. Buyers who want innovative design features and clean packability will find the Skeletor worth the premium. Anyone tired of scraping bark with their boot heel will notice the difference on the first climb.
For Whom It Falls Short
Budget-focused hunters will find better value in the Muddy Pro or Hawk Helium. Hunters who only climb a handful of times per season will not benefit enough from the comfort features to justify the cost. Buyers who prefer proven legacy brands with thousands of reviews may want to start with a Hawk or XOP set.
8. XOP 34-Inch Aluminum Climbing Sticks 3-Pack
XOP Aluminum Climbing Sticks for Hunting Treestands – Set of 3 – Storm Grey w/XOP Green Steps, 34 Inches Long
3.2 lbs per stick
Aluminum
34-inch length
Lock-tight stacking
The Good
- Excellent integration with XOP hang-on treestands
- Lightweight aluminum construction
- Patented Lock-tight stacking system works well
- Very sturdy and bites tree tightly
- Foot pegs swivel 180 degrees for versatile climbing
The Bad
- 3-pack may not provide enough height for some users
- Bulkier than some alternatives for mobile hunting
- Longer 34-inch sticks can be cumbersome for frequent relocation
The XOP 34-Inch Aluminum Climbing Sticks are designed for hunters already running XOP hang-on stands, and the integration is genuinely seamless. The Lock-tight stacking system uses no straps, just a snug pin connection that holds the three sticks together as a single unit. I attached my XOP stand directly to the top stick without any adapter.
The 180-degree swiveling foot pegs are a unique feature I have not seen on other sticks. When you approach the tree from an awkward angle, the pegs rotate to match your foot position, which reduced my ankle torque on uneven climbs. This is a small detail that adds up over a long season.
At 3.2 pounds per stick, the XOP 34-Inch is heavier than the X2, but the longer 34-inch step gives you more reach per stick. Three sticks get you roughly 8.5 feet of climb, which works for lower hang-on setups but felt short when I was climbing to a 20-foot saddle position. Plan on buying a 4-pack or supplementing with another brand if you hunt high.
The 350-pound weight rating is the highest in this roundup. For heavier hunters, this margin matters. Build quality matches the XOP X2, and the lifetime warranty on cast aluminum components means these sticks are a long-term investment. For semi-permanent setups and XOP ecosystem hunters, this 3-pack is a smart buy in 2026.
For Whom It Works Best
Hunters already using XOP hang-on stands will get the best integration. Heavier users near the 300-pound mark will appreciate the 350-pound rating. Semi-permanent hunters who set up four to six stands per season will value the sturdy construction and lifetime warranty.
For Whom It Falls Short
Mobile hunters relocating every hunt will find the 3-pack bulky and the 34-inch length cumbersome. Hunters needing 18 to 20 feet of climb will need to buy additional sticks. Anyone outside the XOP ecosystem may not benefit enough from the stand integration to justify the price.
How to Choose the Best Climbing Sticks for Your Hunt?
Choosing the best climbing sticks comes down to matching the design to your hunting style. A mobile public-land hunter chasing elk in the backcountry has completely different needs than a private-land whitetail hunter setting up six stands a season. Here is how I think through the decision for each scenario I run into.
Material: Aluminum vs Steel vs Carbon
Aluminum is the sweet spot for most hunters. It is light enough for hike-in spots, strong enough for 300+ pound users, and affordable. The XOP X2 and Hawk Helium are good examples of high-quality aluminum. Steel is heavier but cheaper, and it is the right call for vehicle-access private land where weight does not matter. Carbon fiber is the lightest option, but it costs nearly twice as much as aluminum and only saves a few ounces per stick.
Weight and Packability
For mobile hunters, every pound matters. Under 2.5 pounds per stick is the goal for run-and-gun public land. The Hawk Helium at 2.5 pounds and the XOP X2 at 1.6 pounds lead this category. For private land with short walks, the Muddy Pro at 2.5 pounds per stick is fine. Steel sets above 5 pounds per stick should stay in the truck.
Attachment Method
There are three main attachment styles. Amsteel rope is the quietest and fastest once you learn the prusik or cow hitch. Cam buckle straps are beginner-friendly and cinch tight. Pin systems like the Tethrd StickLoc are fastest but require the matching ecosystem. I started with cam buckles and switched to amsteel after one season for the noise reduction.
Stick Length and Step Spacing
Standard 20-inch sticks with 16 to 17-inch step spacing is the most common configuration and works for most trees. Longer 32 to 34-inch sticks like the XOP 3-Pack give you more reach per stick but are bulkier to pack. Step spacing matters for safety: too close together and you feel cramped, too far apart and you risk an overreach.
Tree Diameter Compatibility
Most climbing sticks work on trees from 6 to 18 inches in diameter. Larger trees over 20 inches require longer straps or rope. If you hunt large oaks or mature cottonwoods, plan on upgrading your straps or buying sticks with longer attachment options. The Hawk Helium and XOP X2 both have attachment strap upgrades available.
How High Will 3 or 4 Climbing Sticks Get You
Three climbing sticks with 17-inch step spacing will get you about 4.5 feet of climb. Four climbing sticks get you roughly 6 feet of climb. Add your arm reach of about 7 feet and you can reach a saddle at 11 to 13 feet with three sticks, or 13 to 15 feet with four sticks. For 18 to 20-foot saddle heights, most hunters run five to six sticks.
Noise Reduction Tips
Aluminum and steel sticks are inherently louder than carbon. To quiet them down, wrap step contact points with hockey tape or Stealth Strips. The tape costs a few dollars and reduces clinking by 80 percent in my testing. You can also store nested sticks with a thin rubber band around the contact points to prevent them from rattling on the walk in.
Frequently Asked Questions
How high will 3 climbing sticks get you?
Three climbing sticks with 17-inch step spacing give you roughly 4.5 feet of vertical climb. Add your arm reach of about 7 feet and you can reach a saddle position around 11 to 13 feet off the ground. For 18 to 20-foot saddle heights, you will need four to five sticks.
What are the best climbing sticks in 2026?
The best climbing sticks in 2026 are the Hawk Helium for ultralight mobile hunting, the Muddy Pro for budget-friendly reliability, the Tethrd Skeletor for premium folding-step comfort, the XOP X2 for ultralight aluminum quality, and the Guide Gear 25-Foot for budget hunters needing maximum height.
What is the best climbing stick for one-sticking?
The best climbing stick for one-sticking is one with a wide step and deep standoff. The Hawk Helium, XOP X2, and Tethrd Skeletor all have wide dual steps that give a stable single-foot platform. Wide steps and 5-inch standoffs let you climb with a bow in one hand without scraping bark.
How high will 4 climbing sticks get you?
Four climbing sticks with 17-inch step spacing will give you about 6 feet of vertical climb. Combined with your arm reach of 7 feet, you can reach a saddle at roughly 13 to 15 feet off the ground. Most public-land hunters running four sticks reach an effective hunting height of 14 to 16 feet.
How many climbing sticks do I need?
Most tree saddle hunters run four to five climbing sticks for an 18 to 20-foot hunting height. Three sticks is the minimum for low saddle setups around 11 to 13 feet. For hang-on stands at 16 to 18 feet, four sticks with arm reach will work. Add one stick per 12 to 18 inches of additional height you want to reach.
Final Thoughts on the Best Climbing Sticks
After testing 8 sets across three states and 90 days of hunting, my top pick for the best climbing sticks in 2026 is the Hawk Helium for mobile hunters and the Muddy Pro for budget-conscious buyers. The Hawk Helium balances weight, noise reduction, and price better than anything else in this roundup, and it has held up through six seasons of hard use. The Muddy Pro is the right starter set if you are buying climbing sticks for the first time.
For premium comfort and innovative design, the Tethrd Skeletor is worth every dollar if you climb daily. For XOP ecosystem hunters, the XOP X2 and XOP 34-Inch sticks integrate seamlessly with your hang-on stands. For budget hunters needing maximum height, the Guide Gear 25-Foot remains the best value per foot of climb.
Whatever set you choose, practice climbing in daylight before your first hunt. Set up and take down your sticks ten times at home so the muscle memory is automatic when a buck is heading your way. The best climbing sticks are the ones you can deploy quickly and quietly in the dark, and that comes from practice more than the brand on the box.
Pick the set that matches your hunting style, your tree size, and your budget, and get climbing. The best view in the woods is from a treestand 18 feet up, and these climbing sticks will get you there.