Is there such a thing as the perfect cardio machine? Treadmills and exercise bikes do little to engage your arms. Ellipticals take up a lot of space and aren’t always the best at higher speeds. Stair climbers are bulky and do not engage your arms. Rowers require a technique that you might be too intimidated (or busy) to learn. Enter the vertical climber.
With handles and pedals that move up and down to engage your whole body, vertical climbers support intense workouts for the serious exerciser. They take up less space than most ellipticals and are a fantastic compact option for your home.
Vertical climbers haven’t made the same impact on the home fitness industry as these other products. However, as I’ve already mentioned, they have a ton of potential and many obvious benefits. If you are as curious about them as I was, you need to keep reading to find our recommendations for the best vertical climbers.
Best Vertical Climbers of 2024 – Our Experts’ Top Picks
There are a lot of climbers to choose from, and we selected the machines with the top constructions and features. Check out which climber machines we consider the best on the market.
CLMBR
Best Overall Vertical Climber
- The attached touch screen is enabled with engaging fitness content to follow.
- The handles adjust in 1″ increments for heights from 4’11” up to 7′ and adjust in different positions.
- There are multiple stationary handles for isolating your lower body.
- The design is unique to other climbing machines and stable to use.
- The machine makes some noise when in use, so we don’t recommend it for homes that need a quiet/silent machine.
- The warranty is limited to 1 year.
We see attached touch screens on equipment like treadmills, exercise bikes, rowers, and ellipticals that often come with a monthly membership to access the content on the screen. CLMBR follows this format, and they’ve developed a unique fitness app for their vertical climber machine.
The clear 21″ touch screen displays CLMBR’s trainer-led studio fitness classes. Most of the classes feature the instructors guiding workouts while using the CLMBR. The experience is similar to other subscription platforms on the market, like Peloton.
Every class has a unique, curated playlist. These playlists make the overall energy of every workout engaging and fun. You can use the CLMBR without a subscription, but the screen and content are big selling points for the CLMBR. CLMBR Vision also features live coaching and feedback while working out off the machine.
Even with its unique design, the CLMBR is reasonably compact. It takes up the most vertical space, requiring at least an 8-foot ceiling height to use. While taking up a small amount of floor space, it is still solid. If you want to take advantage of the CLMBR workouts that take place off the vertical climber, keep an open space near the machine where you can see the screen.
The max range of motion is 20″, and it is really easy to adjust it when you’re on the CLMBR. The magnetic resistance is also adjustable, with levels from 1 to 11. I love all the handle options. The moving handles are adjustable depending on your height and fold up when you want to isolate your lower body. The rear dip bars and crossbar handles give you even more grip options.
For a hearty, well-rounded, and entertaining vertical climbing experience, the CLMBR is the way to go!
Click here to read our detailed review of the CLMBR.
Interested in the CLMBR?
VersaClimber H/HP
Best High-End Vertical Climber
- This climber is made with high-quality materials and manufactured in the U.S.
- The adjustable 1″-20″ vertical range of the handles and pedals makes for a versatile and challenging total body workout.
- The adjustable leveling feet plant the base to the floor to eliminate rocking.
- The side handrails allow it to be used like a stair-stepper.
- This climber is more expensive than other models on this list.
- The resistance isn’t adjustable.
The VersaClimber H/HP occupies a relatively small amount of floor space. It is tall and requires a high ceiling, like all vertical climbers. So, be sure you have a high ceiling. The VersaClimber is 7’6″ tall for reference. 8-9 feet tall ceilings should be the minimum height of your ceiling to use this vertical climber properly.
The handles and pedals adjust to a range of user heights. The H/HP can handle users up to 350 lbs, too. The stride ranges from 1″ up to 20″ to work your muscles differently. You’ll be able to reach a max speed of 255 vertical feet per minute (if you can catch up to that). Talk about a serious workout! The side stationary handles and foot straps offer additional support.
The display has onboard workouts and programs to follow along with. Race modes are programmed into the display, and you’ll be able to track your metrics with the console right at eye level. When you purchase the VersaClimber H/HP, you’ll get the choice of the HP model, which comes with a heart rate monitor, or the H model, which doesn’t.
The VersaClimber has an aluminum frame with a protective black powder coating. It is made in the United States.
Interested in the VersaClimber H/HP?
MaxiClimber XL-2000
Best Vertical Climber for Home Use
- This climber is affordable and foldable, making it great for most homes.
- The climber adjusts for heights up to 6’6″.
- The hydraulic resistance provides 12 levels to vary your intensity.
- The device rack lets you use your phone to connect to the free MaxiClimber app for metrics tracking.
- The 300 lb weight limit isn’t best for users over that capacity.
- This isn’t a great option if you’re looking for a high-tech climber.
The MaxiClimber XL-2000 is also affordable. While still high-quality, this vertical climber comes in at a nice price of under $500. A big reason why the MaxiClimber is so budget-friendly is that it has a straightforward, no-frills design. Instead of having a console, the XL-2000 comes with a device rack for your phone touse the free MaxiClimber app.
And if the MaxiClimber XL-2000 is just out of your budget, the other model of the MaxiClimber is a nice alternative. It is better for smaller users because of the 240 lb max weight limit. It also just uses your body weight for resistance instead of the adjustable hydraulic resistance on the XL-2000.
With no phone holder, you will have a more unplugged experience on the lower-end MaxiClimber. Although, you could technically place either of these MaxiClimbers in front of a television for entertainment.
We recommend either of these MaxiClimber models for home use. If you’re looking for a design that lets you hop on and climb, you can’t go wrong with either option.
Interested in the MaxiClimber XL-2000?
Cascade Climber
Best Commercial-Grade Vertical Climber
- With a lifetime frame warranty, this climber is made of commercial-quality materials.
- The 350 lb weight capacity and adjustable handles make this appropriate for many users.
- The console includes onboard workout programs and metrics tracking.
- There are 16 magnetic resistance levels to adjust your workout’s intensity.
- Doesn’t include any training content options.
- The price point might be limiting to some.
The Cascade Climber also has transportation wheels, so it can be moved around when needed. You can even purchase a mount to attach the Cascade Climber to the floor or a wall. This feature is sold separately.
The handles adjust with a push-pin design, with three different settings depending on height. The pedals feature adjustable Velcro straps to secure your feet in place while climbing. The handles and pedals move 1″ up to 19″ vertically, which makes for a nice range of motion to choose from. I love some speed work with a short range of motion.
The console includes six workout programs and displays metrics like time, steps, step height, cadence, calories, heart rate, steps/min, level, and distance. The console has Bluetooth and comes with a heart rate chest strap. A device holder for your phone or tablet allows you to follow along with a third-party workout program or watch separate content.
Overall, we’re highly impressed with all that the Cascade Climber has to offer, in addition to its commercial-grade construction.
Interested in the Cascade Climber?
Xebex Fitness Vertical Climber 3.0 Smart Connect
Best Vertical Climber with Resistance
- The 16 levels of adjustable resistance provide a variety of training options.
- The 20″ pedal and handle vertical stride length allow a great range of motion to work your entire body.
- The 202 lb freestanding base makes for a hearty climber that doesn’t require a plug-in.
- The console comes with onboard workouts and Bluetooth connectivity.
- Stationary handles for lower-body targeted training are sold separately.
- Doesn’t come with a heart rate monitor.
Some vertical climbers use adjustable resistance, while others have fixed resistance that utilizes your body weight and the motion of the handles and pedals as “resistance.” The Xebex Fitness Vertical Climber has adjustable resistance to add variety to your training. There are 16 levels of resistance, letting you adjust intensity levels while keeping the same pace.
In addition to the adjustable resistance, this vertical climber from Xebex is versatile. The handles have four adjustment points depending on your height, so users of a wide range of heights can adjust the machine. If you’re taller, you can purchase the extender arms, which add 11″ height to the handles’ range of motion.
There is a cross-crawl attachment and neutral handles for varying your positioning. Plus, the stepper rail attachment lets you target your lower body. All of these attachments and accessories are sold separately.
The Xebex Fitness Vertical Climber 3.0 Smart Connect has nice construction, a 202-lb freestanding base, and a 350-lb user weight limit. We like that the Xebex doesn’t require electricity but still connects to third-party apps for tracking. The console also has preloaded workout programs for intervals, targeted training, and even racing.
Interested in the Xebex Fitness Vertical Climber 3.0 Smart Connect?
ReLife Vertical Climber
Best Budget Vertical Climber
- This climber is an excellent budget pick because of its low price and quality design.
- The triangular frame folds up to be stored against a wall or under a bed.
- There are moving and stationary handles for different types of training.
- The design is lightweight and compact for small spaces and use upstairs.
- The frame warranty is less extensive than what other brands offer.
- The 260 lb weight capacity doesn’t make this best for users over that limit.
The ReLife Vertical Climber has a triangular folding design. It can be stored against a wall or in a closet. You can even store it under a bed. There aren’t any transportation wheels, but this climber only weighs 43 lbs, so it’s a little easier to maneuver than larger climbers. With a weight limit of 260 lbs, the ReLife is still pretty hearty for its lightweight and slim size.
The handles and pedals move in conjunction with one another. The pedals are textured to help prevent your feet from slipping, and the handles come with sweat-resistant foam coverings to help you keep a good grip. The stationary handles have the same covering and make for easy lower-body isolation training. The five resistance levels give you plenty of intensity.
This vertical climber is a great starter and budget option to check out.
Interested in the ReLife Vertical Climber?
Echelon Stair Climber
Best Folding Climber
- Super compact folding frame
- No subscription required
- Reasonable price
- Low-impact training
- Multiple resistance levels
- Limited content options with Echelon membership
- No moving handles
The most important feature of this climber is the folding frame. It can fit into a closet and much shorter spaces than most of the others on this list. It’s one of the most compact options. It weighs approximately 68 lbs and has transport wheels to make relocating it easier.
When you purchase the Echelon Stair Climber, a subscription to Echelon’s training platform is automatically added to your cart. However, you can remove it and not use it with this machine if you want. Echelon doesn’t currently have enough content to justify a subscription with the Climber, but hopefully, they will add more trainer-led classes soon.
The Stair Climber Sport does not have any built-in programs. It has a super-simple battery-powered console. It has a device rack that you can use to view the Echelon app on your phone or tablet. You could also stream your favorite entertainment through your own device. It’s so compact you could just use it in your living room in front of your TV, too.
If you want a reasonably priced lower-impact leg workout, the Echelon Stair Climber Sport might be the one for you.
Interested in the Echelon Stair Climber?
What to Consider when Buying a Vertical Climber
A vertical climber is perfect for exercisers who want an intense full-body workout. These climbers engage your arms, your legs, and your core. You can train fast in HIIT workouts or at an endurance pace. The workouts are low-impact, avoiding the stress of a high-impact activity like running.
Not all vertical climbers are the same, and a few differences can impact your enjoyment and the quality of your workout. There are some things to consider when purchasing the best vertical climber for your home.
Movement Type
Vertical climbers can use a contralateral or ipsilateral movement. Contralateral means the opposite side limbs are moving together, such as in running. Ipsilateral means the same side limbs are moving together. For example, during contralateral climbing, your right arm would go up while your right leg would go down. During ipsilateral climbing, your right arm and right leg would go up at the same time.
Contralateral climbing is more natural because it mimics our natural walking and running gait patterns. We swing the opposite arm with the opposite leg. The CLMBR and the VersaClimber use a contralateral climbing motion.
Ipsilateral motion is commonly found on more affordable climbers because it uses a simpler design. The Cascade Climber, the MaxiClimber XL-2000, and the ReLife use an ipsilateral climbing motion.
Xebex Fitness Vertical Climber allows exercisers to switch from ipsilateral and contralateral motion. You can even switch between movement patterns during your workout.
Size
You want to ensure the vertical climber will fit in your space. Most climbers take up a fairly small amount of floor space, especially compared to treadmills, but they’re tall. Because of their height, you must ensure your ceiling is high enough.
You will want plenty of ceiling clearance for the climber, moving handles, and, of course, yourself. You have to step up onto the pedals, and you might be taller than the climber when using them. You certainly don’t want to be banging your head against the ceiling with every stride.
Some vertical climbers fold up to be easily stored, but many don’t. For larger, non-folding vertical climbers, you will most likely need a designated space for your climber to stay when it’s in use and not in use.
Many vertical climbers have transportation wheels to move the machine around, but this might not be the best option if the climber is heavy. When considering a vertical climber, you want to be sure it will fit and work well in your home space.
User Capacity
Another critical thing to remember is the vertical climber’s weight capacity. You want to be sure that you are under the weight limit. Vertical climbers have different weight capacities, so you’ll want to check out the specs before purchasing.
You also want to be sure that you fit on the vertical climber when using the handles and pedals. Many climbers have adjustable handles (some also have adjustable pedals), so you can be sure to get a good fit. Some include height limits in the specs, so check that out if it’s available.
Take it from me: I’m only about 5’1″, and I usually have to use the lower adjustments on vertical climbers to reach the handles. You don’t want your handles to be too low or too high; this can negatively affect your positioning.
Features
There are a wide variety of vertical climbers out there. Most come with onboard workouts, some with Bluetooth connectivity, and our best overall vertical climber, the CLMBR, comes with a touch screen and subscription training content.
You want to be sure that whatever your training goals and entertainment choices are, your climber aligns with them. Other features like stationary handles for isolating your lower body and adjustable resistance are also important. It all depends on what your training goals are.
Price Range
Finally, the price is a large factor to consider when buying a vertical climber for your home. Vertical climbers come in various price ranges from under $1000 to well over $2000. Selecting a vertical climber in your budget is important, just as purchasing any fitness equipment.
Warranty
An exercise machine’s warranty length and coverage can provide insight into its durability. We like frame warranties of 10 years or more and a parts warranty of 2 years or more. Lifetime warranties are rare but are great finds.
Follow the climber’s maintenance schedule, use it properly, and store it correctly to prevent voiding your warranty. Residential vertical climbers should not be used in commercial settings, and many exercise machines with touch screens and tech features should not be stored in non-climate-controlled spaces like garages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What muscles are worked on a vertical climber?
Vertical climbers work your entire body. You can exercise your glutes, quads, hamstrings, and core. Depending on how you grip the handles, you can work your upper and lower back, chest, triceps, and biceps. Expect a total body, high-intensity workout that is forgiving on your joints on a vertical climbing machine.
Are vertical climbers better than treadmills?
One isn’t necessarily better than the other. Vertical climbers can help burn more calories than treadmills because of the vertical movement and intensity of the machine. Vertical climbers might also be a good idea if you have joint problems and joint discomfort because the exercise is low impact compared to the high impact when running on a treadmill.
However, both types of equipment have plenty of benefits, and it is ultimately a matter of your goals. Either machine can give you a great workout.
What should I look for in a vertical climber?
You want to consider the size of the vertical climber to ensure it fits in your space. You also want to ensure you fit it on it, so check the weight and height limit. The price can influence the overall quality, too. Other features like adjustable resistance and Bluetooth connectivity are important if you want to vary your training and connect to your device.
How long should you use a vertical climber?
Vertical climbers are great for short HIIT workouts lasting 10 to 30 minutes. You can also train for endurance by moving at a more manageable pace for up to an hour or more. If you are new to exercising, start with shorter bouts and slowly increase your duration.
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