Our top picks for the best vertical climbers
MaxiClimber is one of the high quality, well-known brands Sautter recommends — and it’s also not hella expensive. The XL-2000 is designed for smooth gliding at all 12 resistance levels, accommodates people in larger bodies, and can fold down flat for storage under a bed or sofa. It also connects with the MaxiClimber fitness app to track progress and participate in challenges.
On the downside, this model has been known to arrive without all of the correct parts. But luckily, the manufacturer has a good customer service reputation and seems to quickly resolve most issues.
The MaxiClimber Classic skips the bells and whistles and opts for simple, smooth gliding — for a lower price, too. Like the XL-2000, it connects to the MaxiClimber fitness app and folds down for super easy storage. But this model is more lightweight and reviewers rave about its affordability and how easy it is to assemble and use.
On the downside, the Classic’s lighter build doesn’t always hold up as well as heavier models. It also doesn’t have any resistance levels, which means the only way to intensify your workout is by picking up the pace.
“My preference is for the VersaClimber,” says Meissner. “It’s on the higher end in terms of price, but it’s a quality you won’t need to replace.”
We can def confirm that this climber costs a pretty penny (and be ready to give up some floor space), but it also has features you won’t find on less expensive models.
The steel frame, for example, brings extra stability and a higher weight capacity of 350 pounds. It also manages to stay under an 8-foot ceiling while still having 20 inches of step height adjustability. More adjustability means more options — longer length is great for people with longer strides and shorter length is perf for a sprint-style climb.
Shop now at VersaClimberThe Doufit isn’t one of the brands recommended by our experts, but it’s got all the specs to give you a high-end workout on a dime store budget. Seven adjustable height levels let you change up your workout or adjust to each member of the fam’s height. It also provides a good range of motion and folds flat for easier storage — all for a low price.
The Doufit doesn’t have the smoothest movement and doesn’t offer any resistance options, but it’s def a great option for anyone looking for a heart-pumping workout for less cash.
The Sunny Health & Fitness Performance Elliptical Machine combines your fave elements from an elliptical and climber in one machine for a lower impact climb. You can adjust resistance levels to boost your workout intensity and choose from multiple handle positions to focus more on an upper body, lower body, or full body workout. 💪
Sole is another highly recommended brand on Sautter’s list, and the CC81 provides the stability and smooth gliding you’d expect from a machine at this price. It gets top marks for its ultra-adjustable handles, which have four different height options and can be flipped to target different muscles in your upper bod. This model also has a good weight capacity for people in larger bodies.
There are a few downsides though — it’s expensive, reviewers say the Bluetooth connectivity can be glitchy, and it’s not the easiest to assemble. S#!T.
Shop now at SoleIf you’re just getting started in the world of vertical climbers, you don’t want to spend a bundle on a big ol’ machine you might not like. This option from RELIFE is super cheap, but still has five height adjustments that give you a way to intensify your workout and find your best fit. The handles have a vented design that’s supposed to let sweat evaporate and help you maintain a tight grip as you learn the ropes. It also folds down, so it doesn’t eat up precious square footage.
On the downside, there aren’t any resistance levels for an extra challenge, and it’s not as sturdy as heavier-duty models.