Seven classes of difficulty
The TREE SHADE SYSTEM is a new tree climbing assessment chart with seven classes of difficulty. Each one is divided into three subclasses. Altogether, there are twenty-one subclasses, from Ia (very easy) to VIIc (extremely difficult).
Five indicators : The SHADE CODE
The TREE SHADE SYSTEM is based on five indicators : Structure (tree shape), Height, Access (first footholds and handholds), special Difficulty and Extension (main interval between two branches). A degree from 0 to 4 is given to each indicator according to its difficulty.
Five indicators = five numbers = The SHADE CODE. The grade equals the sum of indicators (maximum 4+4+4+4+4 = 20). Altogether, there are twenty-one grades from 0 to 20. Each grade is attached to one subclass.
Get started right away
Most people use The TREE SHADE SYSTEM very easily.
For example : A thirty-five meter high sequoia pendula.
- Step one : find The SHADE CODE
- Structure = vertical = degree 0
- Height = 30 < h < 45meters = degree 3
- Access = 5 < h < 15 meters = degree 2
- Difficulty = Downward branches, slippery bark = degree 3
- Extension = 1,5 < Main interval < 2 meters = degree 2
SHADE CODE = 03232
- Step Two : find The SHADE CLASS
- Add the five indicators to find the grade : 0 + 3 + 2 + 3 + 2 = 10
GRADE 10 = CLASS IVb
Follow up progress
With The TREE SHADE SYSTEM, everyone is able to determine a tree climbing difficulty with optimal accuracy. Morever, it allows to follow up progress. A SHADE BOOK can be used to record sessions, including tree-type, context, SHADE CODE, SHADE CLASS, equipment, techniques.
Download
Download The TREE SHADE SYSTEM on Documents section.
Thanks to Claudine MARBACH and Laura REID for translation.