Advice needed on friction knots v ascenders

[Ollybean]

Hello from a new member in Kendal, Cumbria.

I have free climbed trees for the last 50+ years and now feel the need for a bit of anti falling down stuff. I have bought some static rope, carabiners, full body harness and some rope for friction knots. Having practiced loads of different things in the garage like prusiks, blakes, valdotians etc. i find them real hard work. Whats the general opinion on using ascenders, they look easier but do they damage the rope.

Maybe i should buy some climbing spikes instead.

[Steve Bullman]

There really are stacks of different ways to ascend ropes. Have you tried a pantin foot ascender for starters?

[Ollybean]

I have not seen these foot ascenders Steve, but will check them out. Dont want to buy loads of stuff until i know exactly what i want.

[WorcsWuss]

Climbing any rope is going to be harder than simply scrabbling up a tree.

I believe the general concensus is that single rope using mechanical ascenders on hands and feet is the easiest way to get up a rope though.... I've doubled rope though so I can't vouch for that...!