A New Chapter in Tree Climbing: The Rock Exotica Akimbo 2.0

The tree care industry is always evolving, and every so often, a piece of gear comes along that genuinely changes how we work in the canopy. The original Akimbo from Rock Exotica was one of those game-changers, and now, the wait is finally over. The highly anticipated second generation, the Rock Exotica Akimbo 2.0, has arrived, setting a new standard for compact, versatile climbing systems.

What is the Akimbo 2.0?

The Akimbo 2.0 is an advanced, mechanical friction device engineered specifically for the demanding world of professional tree care. It’s a streamlined evolution of the original, designed to be your all-in-one tool for ascent, descent, and work positioning. Whether you prefer a stationary rope system (SRS) or a moving rope system (MRS), the Akimbo 2.0 handles both with equal proficiency, eliminating the need for multiple pieces of hardware on your harness.

Key Features & Upgrades: Why You'll Love It

The genius of the Akimbo 2.0 lies in its thoughtful, user-driven design. Here’s what makes it a standout addition to any arborist's kit:

• Mid-Line Attachable: One of the most loved features remains. You can easily open the device to install or remove it from your rope mid-climb, all without detaching from your saddle.

• Tool-Free Friction Adjustment: Dial in your perfect descent with ease. The adjustable friction settings allow for fine-tuned control on a wide variety of ropes, all without any tools.

• Expanded Rope Compatibility: The new model works seamlessly with arborist climbing lines from 11.5mm to 12.7mm. Gone is the need for a narrow 'approved ropes' list.

• Compact & Lightweight: Weighing in at just 10.6 oz (301 g), its compact form factor minimises bulk on your harness, reducing fatigue during long days in the trees.

• Enhanced Durability: Rock Exotica has refined the materials and introduced replaceable wear components, ensuring a longer service life for the device and giving you confidence in its ruggedness.

• New SRS Tending Point: An additional connection point for SRS climbing provides smoother tending and more efficient vertical movement, a subtle but significant upgrade.

How It Performs: From the First Climb to the Daily Driver

On the rope, the Akimbo 2.0 feels exceptionally intuitive. The sealed ball bearings contribute to a silky-smooth glide during ascent, and the responsive friction system gives you precise, confident control when you need to descend or make micro-adjustments in your work position.

The buzz from early users is overwhelmingly positive. One seasoned climber on the TreeBuzz forums noted that while they loved the original, the Akimbo 2.0’s "slew of small changes add considerably to its user-friendliness", calling it a new daily driver. Another described their first climb with the device, lasting four hours, as a "delight". The consensus is clear: the upgrades are substantial and noticeable right out of the gate.

What's Changed from the Original Akimbo?

This isn't just a minor facelift; it's a thoughtful evolution. Key improvements include the much broader rope compatibility, the refined internal components for enhanced performance, the new SRS tending options, and the introduction of replaceable parts to maximise longevity.

A Note on Intended Use

It’s important to note that the Akimbo 2.0 is a professional-grade tool designed for experienced arborists. Its adjustable nature and unique mechanism offer incredible performance, but it requires a solid foundational knowledge of climbing systems. Rock Exotica states it is not intended for novice climbers. As always, thoroughly read the user manual before your first climb.

The Final Verdict

The Rock Exotica Akimbo 2.0 is a serious contender that lives up to the hype. It successfully builds on the original's cult status, offering a more refined, durable, and versatile package. If you're a professional looking to streamline your climbing system and want smooth, compact, and precise control from your primary device, the Akimbo 2.0 deserves a spot on your saddle.

Ready to upgrade your climb? Check out the Akimbo 2.0 and all the latest arborist gear over at Treestore.io!