Precision Positioning: Why the DMM Nomad+ Is Redefining the Work Lanyard

Work positioning lanyards are the unsung heroes of the tree care industry—they keep climbers stable, secure, and efficient while both hands are busy with the task at hand.

The DMM Nomad+ takes this essential tool and elevates it into a fully engineered positioning system that blends traditional friction-hitch control with modern innovation.

For arborists, the work positioning lanyard is far more than a simple backup line. It is the tool that enables micro-positioning—that critical ability to lock in a stable stance, align the center of gravity, and work with both hands free for cutting, rigging, or using pole pruners within the canopy. While the primary climbing system handles ascent, descent, and lateral movement, the lanyard is what makes precise, efficient work possible. In many situations, it also serves as an effective secondary climbing system.

Traditional rope lanyards with prusik hitches have long been the standard, offering a cost-effective solution that is manually adjusted by sliding the hitch along the rope. However, they can become difficult to manage when the rope is coated with pitch, and adjustment under load can be a struggle. Mechanical rope grabs—such as the Petzl Zillon, A.R.T. Positioner, and Notch Glide—have addressed these limitations by providing one-handed adjustment and smoother control, particularly in coniferous trees. The DMM Nomad+ represents the next step in this evolution, merging the familiar feel of a friction-hitch system with the engineering precision that DMM is known for.

The Nomad+ System: Components and Customization

The DMM Nomad+ is a premium, hitch-based work positioning lanyard system designed for real movement in the crown. It is available in two rope diameters—11.8mm and 12.8mm—each crafted from a 24-strand polyester cover with a polyamide core. The 11.8mm variant is noticeably lighter and offers excellent handling, making it a preferred choice for warm, dry conditions.

Both diameters come in four bright, contrasting colors—Lemon Yellow, Lime Green, Mango Orange, and Blueberry Blue—with matching color-coded hardware. This thoughtful detail enhances safety by reducing confusion with the main climbing line or a second lanyard in complex environments. Length options range from 3 meters to 20 meters, allowing climbers to select the perfect size for their typical work scenarios—shorter lengths reduce clutter and snagging, while longer lengths are essential for large removals or spanning wide crowns.

The Nomad+ comes as a certified assembly that includes the DMM Director Yoke connector with a rope spacer, the Ultra O carabiner, the Triple Attachment Pulley v2 (TAP 2), and the Nomad rope itself. The Director Yoke is a standout feature—it provides an extremely short connection length at the termination and ensures correct orientation, significantly increasing the working length of the lanyard while reducing clutter close to the harness.

Friction Hitch Performance

At the heart of the Nomad+ system is the Fidus 8.5mm eye-to-eye hitch cord, constructed entirely of polyester. The system is certified for use with specific hitch configurations: Distel 5+1, Schwabisch 5+1, and VT 5+2.

Many climbers find that the VT 5+2 offers a smoother tend and release compared to the Distel or Schwabisch. The ability to dial in the preferred hitch—while maintaining certification by using original components—gives the Nomad+ a level of adaptability that suits a wide range of climbing styles and preferences.

Rescue-Rated and Certified

The Nomad+ is built to professional standards. It is rated for single-person use with a maximum load of 330 lbs, and permits two-person use exclusively in rescue situations with a maximum load of 660 lbs. It complies with EN795:2012 Type B and PD CEN TS 16415:2013 Type B standards. This rescue capability adds a layer of versatility that is invaluable for crews who may need to perform emergency operations from the canopy.

A System That Works With You

The DMM Nomad+ is more than just a lanyard—it is a thoughtfully engineered positioning system that adapts to the climber rather than the other way around. It integrates seamlessly with both stationary rope systems (SRS/SRT) and moving rope systems (MRS), making it a dynamic tool for a variety of climbing techniques.

Whether navigating complex canopies, establishing anchors during rescue operations, or simply dialing in that perfect work position, the Nomad+ delivers controlled, accurate performance that reflects the high standards associated with DMM products. It bridges the gap between traditional friction-hitch control and modern engineering, offering a system that feels intuitive while meeting the rigorous demands of professional tree care