While kit contents can vary, a basic zip line kit generally includes the main cable, a trolley, and hardware for attachment to anchors. Other components like cable slings, turnbuckles, cable clamps, thimbles, stop blocks, and tensioning tools may also be included depending on the specific kit. Accessories such as handlebars, seats, harnesses, and braking systems like spring brakes or bungee brakes are often available separately or included in more comprehensive kits.

Using a zip line is never risk-free, but zip lining can be made safer when installed and used correctly according to all instructions. It is crucial to read and understand all installation and safety guidelines, ensure proper oversight, supervision, and maintain / inspect all equipment before each use. Never ride a zip line without first testing it.

While we don’t consider installing a zip line an “easy” endeavor, we’ve done our best to make each step as clear as possible in our ZipLineGear Handbook. We’re also available to offer suggestions or discuss the specifics of your installation over the phone, five days a week. 

Installing a zip line kit requires careful site selection and adherence to detailed cable installation procedures. The process involves determining accessible launch and dismount locations, clearing the area of obstructions, and properly securing anchors to suitable trees or posts. Cable tensioning is a critical step, and some kits may include a tensioning kit to assist with this. The ZipLineGear handbook provides step-by-step instructions for different kit types.

Each zip line is different, but often the longer the zip line, the more challenging to set up.  Having a second person to assist with the process is helpful.

The weight limit depends on the specifics of your setup, but a good rule of thumb is that you should never place more than 350 pounds on the zip line. A weight test equal to the weight of the heaviest anticipated participant, up to 350 lbs, must be performed before use. Pay close attention to the weight limit for each specific kit listed on our website. 

The appropriate length of your zip line kit depends on the distance between your chosen anchor points and the topography of your site. The ZipLineGear handbook includes a worksheet to help determine the necessary length, considering factors like distance between anchors, desired slope, and calculated sag. Landscape with a natural slope of 3% to 6% is recommended. If you have flat ground, the longer the zip line length you choose, the higher you need to start to account for slope.

Yes, zip line kits can be installed on trees, provided the trees are appropriate anchors. Tree trunks must have a minimum diameter of 12 inches at the attachment point and should not have rot, disease, structural cracks, excessive lean, or exposed roots. Attachment should only be to the central trunk, not limbs or branches. Using tree saver blocks are recommended to protect the tree.   

Yes, zip line kits can be installed on posts. Wood posts used as anchors must have a minimum diameter of 12 inches. Posts must be sunk at least 4 feet into the ground, or 10% of the post length plus 2 feet (whichever is greater), and secured with 6 inches of concrete around the base. Guy cables and ground anchors may be required for additional support. Eyebolts can be used for attaching the cable to wood or metal poles, ensuring the eyebolt has a proper strength rating and is long enough to protrude through the post with a washer and nut.   

Safety harnesses are included in the Boomerang, Rogue, Brakehawk, or Sleadd 250LX kits. If you’re interested in a different kit, a harness, lanyard and carabiner can always be included as an add on. We have harness options available for both kids and adults. 

Installing a simple 4x4 post (2'-4' in the ground) with the dirt packed around it would be sufficient. The closer this attachment height can be to the height of the cable, the better. For example if you have a cable height of 10' at the location of the bungee block, then 8'-10' high is where you would want to attach the bungee cord to your post.

A spring brake is a type of braking system available as an add-on for zip line kits. It is mounted on the cable, and multiple springs can be added to increase stopping power. A spring brake is important because it helps to slow down the rider as they approach the end of the zip line. However, a stop block must also be installed when using a spring brake, as the spring brake alone is not a complete braking system and collision with the spring without a stop block can cause injury. The maximum allowable slope for zip lines utilizing a spring brake is 3%.   

Springs have limited stopping power and they’re especially good for short zip lines 150 FT or less, using a minimal 3% slope.  Although you can add additional springs to increase stopping power, springs are not comparable to the stopping power needed for a 5-6% slope.  It’s best to use a bungee brake in cases where zip line length is over 150 FT or where slope is greater than 3%.

A cable tensioning kit is an optional add-on item that can be used during the installation process to help pull the zip line cable taut. It typically includes components like a winch and cable grab. The tensioning kit is used to lift the main zip line cable to the appropriate height and tension it before securing the cable with clamps. Once the main cable is tensioned, the tensioning kit is removed.   

We hope this FAQ section is helpful! If you have further questions, please consult the ZIPLINEGEAR Installation & Safety Handbook or contact us directly.