Petzl ZIGZAG Mechanical Prusik
The Petzl ZIGZAG is a professional mechanical Prusik designed for arborists and tree climbers, providing smooth, intuitive and precise movement throughout the canopy.
Designed to replicate the familiar operation of a traditional Prusik pulley system, the ZIGZAG combines a friction chain, high-efficiency pulley and progressive release lever into a compact mechanical device.
Whether ascending into the canopy, taking up slack, moving between branches or positioning for work, the ZIGZAG provides the control and efficiency professional arborists need for everyday tree climbing.
Smooth and Precise Movement
The ZIGZAG's friction chain automatically locks onto the rope when loaded, while the release lever provides smooth and progressive control when descending or adjusting position.
Pressure applied to the lever controls the speed of movement, allowing the arborist to make precise adjustments while working in the canopy.
A wide pulley mounted on sealed ball bearings provides excellent efficiency when taking up slack, helping the system move smoothly as the climber progresses.
Fixed Lower Attachment Point
Unlike the ZIGZAG PLUS, which incorporates an integrated swivel, the standard ZIGZAG features a fixed lower attachment point.
This provides a simple, compact connection to the harness while allowing the system to remain correctly aligned and accommodating both left and right-handed use.
For arborists who don't require an integrated swivel, the standard ZIGZAG provides the same familiar mechanical Prusik functionality in a lighter 365 g package.
Moving Rope or Stationary Rope Systems
The ZIGZAG is suitable for use in both Moving Rope Systems (MRS) and Stationary Rope Systems (SRS).
For stationary rope use, the ZIGZAG can be paired with the Petzl CHICANE auxiliary brake, providing the additional friction required during descent.
The upper attachment point incorporates a positioning ring that helps keep the connector correctly oriented. This connection can be used for the rope termination in a moving rope system or for attaching the CHICANE when configured for stationary rope use.
An additional auxiliary attachment point also allows connection of equipment such as a Petzl ZILLON positioning lanyard or a secondary system.
Built for Professional Tree Work
Tree climbing equipment gets worked hard, so the ZIGZAG is designed with durability in mind.
Steel construction improves durability in high-wear areas, while the separated and curved side plates are designed to provide improved wear resistance.
Compatible with 11.5–13 mm EN 1891 Type A low-stretch kernmantel ropes, the ZIGZAG is built for professional arborists looking for a reliable and efficient mechanical alternative to a traditional Prusik system.
Key Features
- Professional mechanical Prusik for arborists and tree climbers
- Familiar operation based on traditional Prusik pulley techniques
- Fixed lower attachment point for simple system alignment
- Suitable for left or right-handed use
- Friction chain provides smooth and precise movement
- Progressive release lever provides excellent control during descent and positioning
- Automatically locks onto the rope when the friction chain extends
- Wide high-efficiency pulley mounted on sealed ball bearings
- Efficient slack take-up when moving through the canopy
- Suitable for Moving Rope Systems (MRS)
- Compatible with Stationary Rope Systems (SRS) when paired with the Petzl CHICANE
- Upper attachment point with integrated positioning ring
- Auxiliary attachment point for a ZILLON lanyard or secondary system
- Durable steel construction in high-wear areas
- Separated and curved side plates for improved wear resistance
- Compatible with 11.5–13 mm rope
- Working load limit for one person: 140 kg
- Working load limit for two people: 250 kg, subject to Petzl's specified configuration and technical instructions
- Lightweight at 365 g
- CE certified
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Rope Compatibility | 11.5–13 mm |
| Rope Type | EN 1891 Type A low-stretch kernmantel |
| Working Load Limit – One Person | 140 kg |
| Working Load Limit – Two People | 250 kg* |
| Weight | 365 g |
| Materials | Aluminium, Steel, Nylon |
| Certification | CE |
| Reference | D022AA00 |
| Colour | Yellow |
| Manufacturer Guarantee | 3 Years |
*Two-person use must be carried out in accordance with Petzl's applicable technical instructions and approved configurations.
A Proven Mechanical Prusik for Professional Arborists
The Petzl ZIGZAG brings the familiar feel of a traditional Prusik climbing system into a refined mechanical device designed specifically for professional tree work.
Smooth rope feed, efficient slack take-up and precise control make it an excellent choice for arborists who spend their day ascending, moving, positioning and repositioning throughout the canopy.
For climbers who don't require the integrated swivel of the ZIGZAG PLUS, the standard Petzl ZIGZAG provides a lighter and streamlined option while retaining the core performance that has made the ZIGZAG system so popular with professional arborists.