If you're looking for a low-impact, full-body, high-calorie-burning workout, vertical climbing is where it's at. The best vertical climber simulates rock climbing, but without the heavy strain on your joints. Vertical climbing targets your arms, legs, glutes, and core, making it a true full-body, calorie-blasting exercise. Whether you're looking for a great budget climber like the MaxiClimber Classic, or want to learn more about our pick for best climber overall—the Sole Fitness CC81, we've got a machine for everyone at every price point on this list of best vertical climbers.
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The Best Vertical Climber - Our Top Picks
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- Best Overall Vertical Climber: Sole Fitness CC81
- Best Budget Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber
- Best Vertical Climber for Small Spaces: Sports Royals Vertical Climber
- Best Folding Vertical Climber: Aceshin Folding Vertical Climber
- Best Vertical Climber for Beginners: Hurbo Vertical Climber
- Best Advanced Vertical Climber: Maxi Climber XL2000
- Best 2-in-2 Vertical Climber: NB Stepper 2-in-1 Climber Stepper
- Best Vertical Climber with Adjustable Resistance: Stamina Cardio Climber
- Best Vertical Climber for Cross-Training: HYCQ Stepper
- Best High-Tech Vertical Climber: CLMBR Connected
Best Overall Vertical Climber - Sole Fitness CC81
SPECS
- Dimensions: 86" H x 59" L x 31" W
- Weight: 265 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 400 lbs.
- Features: Adjustable resistance, water bottle holders, tablet holder, adjustable handlebars
This vertical climber combines the elements of a stepper and climber all in one. It features push-pin adjustable handlebars with four different height settings to accommodate users of all sizes and adjustable resistance for high-intensity interval training. It delivers a true full-body workout and is outfitted with an LCD screen so you can track your stats while you sweat.
It weighs in at a heavy 265 pounds, so you'll want to plant it where you put it. Two water bottle holders will keep you hydrated while you move, and a tablet holder keeps your device safe and secure while you follow along with your favorite climbing class or watch entertainment while you work out. The Sole Fitness CC81 has the features and price point to earn it our pick as the best overall vertical climber.
What We Like
- Adjustable resistance
- Adjustable handlebars
- Tablet holder
- Water bottle holder
What We Don't Like
- Very heavy
- Some plastic parts
BUY: Sole Fitness CC81
Best Budget Vertical Climber - MaxiClimber Vertical Climber
SPECS
- Dimensions: 57" H x 28.3" L x 35.82" W
- Weight: 33 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 240 lbs.
- Features: Lightweight, height adjustable, easy to set up, foldable
The MaxiClimber Vertical Climber costs a fraction of what most of the climbers on this list cost, which is why it's our pick for the best budget vertical climber. It's easy to set up, height adjustable and features a foldable design for convenient storage.
It's super lightweight at only 33 pounds and has a small step counter display located in the center of the machine for viewing while you work out. Because of its small footprint, and lightweight nature, this isn't the best vertical climber for heavier users, and some reviewers complain of durability issues. But when you consider the price point, this is a great climber for fitness enthusiasts on a budget.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly
- Lightweight
- Height adjustable
- Easy set up
- Foldable
What We Don't Like
- Not ideal for heavier users
- Durability issues
BUY: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber
Best Vertical Climber for Small Spaces - SportsRoyals Vertical Climber
SPECS
- Dimensions: 78.7" H x 30.2" L x 25.6" W
- Weight: 39 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Features: Small footprint, foldable, LCD screen, height adjustable
The SportsRoyal Vertical Climber is nice and compact. It has a small footprint, measuring 78.7 inches high by 30.2 inches long, by 25.6 inches wide. It's foldable, which makes it incredibly easy to store and ideal for spaces where you don't have a lot of wiggle room. Folded, it measures 30 inches long by 16 inches wide by 9 inches high, which is why it's the best vertical climber for small spaces.
It features five adjustable handlebar heights to accommodate climbers of all sizes, and a multi-function LCD monitor where you can view your time, calories, and total step count. It has little suction cups on its feet, so it stays put while you're working out, and a steel spring pulley system. Take note that there's no adjustable resistance on this climber, you're simply using body weight, and some users wish the stride was a bit smoother.
What We Like
- Small footprint
- LCD screen
- Height adjustable
- Foldable
What We Don't Like
- No adjustable resistance
- Not super smooth
BUY: SportsRoyals Vertical Climber
Best Folding Vertical Climber - Aceshin Folding Vertical Climber
SPECS
- Dimensions: 11.22" H x 63.22" L x 6.1" W (folded dimensions)
- Weight: 44 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs.
- Features: Very compact when folded, height adjustable, padded hand grips, ergonomic design
The ergonomic design and the folding capacity of the Aceshin Folding Vertical Climber make it the ideal machine for tight spaces. This climber folds almost completely flat, making it extremely easy to store vertically or horizontally. It's made of alloy steel for durability, so it will last a long time. The steel is coated with anti-rust paint to keep it looking new.
The climber handles are surrounded with a thick, spongey coating for comfort, and the handlebars are height adjustable to six different positions. It's lightweight at 44 pounds and is simple to set up, fold, and store. There is no adjustable resistance, this machine uses body weight. There's a tiny display located in the center of the machine for step counting. It's a great entry-level climber, but might not be the best choice for more advanced fitness enthusiasts.
What We Like
- Foldable and easy to store
- Padded hand grips
- Height adjustable
- Ergonomic design
What We Don't Like
- No adjustable resistance
- Very small display
BUY: Aceshin Folding Vertical Climber
Best Vertical Climber for Beginners - Hurbo Vertical Climber
SPECS
- Dimensions: 11.22" H x 63.22" L x 6.1" W (folded dimensions)
- Weight: 44 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs.
- Features: Foldable, height adjustable, LCD screen, ergonomic design
The Hurbo Vertical Climber is super budget-friendly, making it the best vertical climber for beginners since it is less of a splurge for someone just starting out. If you buy it and love the workout, you can consider upgrading. This climbing machine uses your own body weight to deliver a true full-body workout, targeting your glutes, legs, arms, and core.
Its lightweight, ergonomic, foldable design, makes it easy to store and set up anywhere in your home. It's constructed of alloy steel and features an LCD digital screen that shows time, speed, distance, and calories burned. It has very small foot pedals, which might be uncomfortable for those who prefer a large, solid, footpad.
What We Like
- Budget-friendly
- LCD screen
- Height adjustable
- Ergonomic design
What We Don't Like
- No adjustable resistance
- Small footpads
Best Advanced Vertical Climber - Maxi Climber XL2000
SPECS
- Dimensions: 56.3" H x 25.78" L x 41.33" W (folded dimensions)
- Weight: 53 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Features: Adjustable resistance, height adjustable, mobile device holder, ergonomic design
The MaxiClimber XL2000 offers a bi-directional, 12-level, hydraulic, resistance system. This makes it the best-advanced climber because it enables users to adjust their resistance for HIIT-style classes, maximizing their workouts. It has an aluminum frame for durability and features a super smooth stride. Note that some users complain of durability issues with some of the smaller, plastic bits.
This vertical climber is outfitted with a mobile device holder, where you can follow along with specially designed climbing workouts via the free MaxiClimber fitness app. The app is compatible with both iOS and Android. This machine might not be the best choice for those who have sensitive knees.
What We Like
- Adjustable resistance
- LCD screen
- Height adjustable
- Large footpads
What We Don't Like
- Plastic parts
- Hard on the knees
BUY: Maxi Climber XL2000
Best 2-in-1 Vertical Climber - NB Stepper 2-in-1 Climber Stepper
SPECS
- Dimensions: Not provided
- Weight: Not provided
- Weight capacity: 265 lbs.
- Features: Rubber machine stabilizers, height adjustable, mobile device holder, ergonomic design
The NB Stepper 2-in-1 Climber Stepper is made by Sportstech Germany and features a smart, foldable, design making it easy to store. It is height adjustable and has padded handlebars for your comfort while climbing. This 2-in-1 stepper simulates both climbing and stair stepping at once, which is why it's our top pick for the best 2-in-1 vertical climber. It delivers a true, full-body workout and is perfect for HIIT (high-intensity interval training).
It's outfitted with a small display in the center of the machine so you can keep tabs on your stats while you're in motion. It has large rubber feet to protect your floor, prevent scratches, and keep it in pristine condition. Its black color and sleek design make it a nice low-profile machine for your home. Keep in mind that it has small footpads, which might not be ideal for those who love a full footrest. There's no adjustable resistance, the NB Stepper Climber uses body weight, and it's a little pricier than some of our other picks with similar features.
What We Like
- Adjustable resistance
- Padded foam handles
- Height adjustable
- Foldable design
What We Don't Like
- No adjustable resistance
- Pricey
- Small footpads
BUY: NB Stepper 2-in-1 Climber Stepper
Best Vertical Climber with Adjustable Resistance - Stamina Cardio Climber
SPECS
- Dimensions: 9.5" H x 47" L x 18.5" W (folded dimensions)
- Weight: 63 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 300 lbs.
- Features: Magnetic resistance, smart app integration, phone holder, two sets of handlebars, LCD monitor, adjustable height
The Stamina Cardio Climber features eight levels of smooth, adjustable, magnetic resistance to deliver an incredible total-body workout. It's outfitted with an LCD monitor where you can track the stats that matter—time, distance, count, and calories burned. It has small, textured pedals, but your feet will stay secure with the adjustable straps.
This vertical climber has a built-in phone holder and features smart app integration via the Müüv app where you can find a follow-along assembly video, get to know your climber, access personalized audio workouts, and listen to your favorite tunes via iHeartRadio. It has two separate sets of handlebars and functions as a 2-in-1 machine. You can switch up your exercise by using the wide, horizontal handlebars for stepping and extra stability for the lower body, and height-adjustable, vertical handlebars, for low-impact climbing. It's a bit pricey, but worth the investment.
What We Like
- Magnetic resistance
- Smart app integration and phone holder
- Height adjustable
- 2 sets of handlebars
- LCD monitor
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- Small footpads
Best Vertical Climber for Cross-Training - HYCQ Stepper
SPECS
- Dimensions: 80" H x 41" L x 25" W
- Weight: 49 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 240 lbs.
- Features: Excellent cross-trainer, height adjustable, L-shaped handlebars, LCD screen
This space-saving stepper conveniently folds for easy horizontal or vertical storage. The HYCQ Stepper is the best vertical climber for cross-training because it's low-impact, using your own body weight to deliver a calorie-blasting, full-body workout that builds strength and endurance you can apply to all your fitness modalities. It features unique L-shaped handlebars with two separate grips to accommodate climbers of all sizes.
It has an LCD screen to show key stats and textured pedals so your feet stay firmly in place. Note that the pedals are small, they don't support the whole foot. It's pricey, but this climber has a sleek, ergonomic design, making it an excellent low-profile addition to any home gym.
What We Like
- Best for cross-training
- Height adjustable
- Long L-shaped handlebars
- LCD screen
What We Don't Like
- Pricey
- No adjustable resistance
BUY: HYCQ Stepper
Best High-Tech Vertical Climber - CLMBR Connected
SPECS
- Dimensions: 88" H x 32" L x 35" W
- Weight: 180 lbs.
- Weight capacity: 350 lbs.
- Features: Connected climbing, high-def display, built-in audio, Bluetooth, adjustable handles and resistance, sleek design
CLMBR Connected was the pioneer in the connected climbing industry. It's outfitted with a large, high-definition display where you can access hundreds of on-demand climbing classes with world-class instructors and new class offerings added every week. It offers Bluetooth connectivity for your smartphone, fitness tracker, or headphones, plus a powerful built-in sound system for a fully-immersive climbing experience. All these awesome features earn it the title of best high-tech vertical climber.
It features a sleek, attractive design, adjustable resistance, and handlebars. It's very pricey, so you'll want to make sure you love the workout before purchasing. If you're a climbing connoisseur, you're going to love this machine. It weighs 180 pounds, so park it where you put it. This machine engages 86 percent of your body's muscles. You'll notice an enormous difference in your physical and cardiovascular health if you can commit to at least 15 minutes a day on this high-tech climber.
What We Like
- Connected fitness
- Attractive design
- High-def display, audio, Bluetooth
- Adjustable resistance
- Adjustable handles
What We Don't Like
- Very pricey
- Heavy
BUY: CLMBR Connected
What to Look for in a Vertical Climber
Dimensions and Space
It's important to measure the space in which you're planning to put your vertical climber. Be sure to check the product dimensions to ensure it will absolutely fit. If you're planning on storing your climber in between uses, pick one that's lightweight and easily foldable.
Weight
Noting the weight of your climber is important, especially if you're planning on moving it around your home or storing it in between workouts. The best vertical climbers on this list range from 33 pounds to 265 pounds. If you want something that's easy to move and store, go for a climber on the lighter end of the weight spectrum. If you're planning on keeping your climber exactly where you set it up, a heavier climber has its benefits as they tend to be sturdier, more durable, and host more advanced features.
Weight Capacity
Checking the weight capacity of your vertical climber is important. If you're purchasing a machine for the whole family, you'll want to make sure it can accommodate and support everyone who will be using it.
Features
Deciding which features are most important mostly comes down to personal preference. Some climbers have adjustable resistance, some use body weight. Some have footpads that support the entire foot, and some have smaller pedals. Some easily fold, and some are designed to stay in place. Understanding your space and your preferences is essential to choosing the best vertical climber for you.
In general, the vertical climber you buy should be height adjustable to accommodate bodies of all sizes. It needs to be durable and built to last, and you'll want it to have a smooth stride.
FAQs About Vertical Climber
Do vertical climbers really work?
Yes! Vertical climbers really work. This workout engages the entire body and is an extremely effective calorie and fat burner. Vertical climbers have been proven to burn more calories in a 20-minute session than both running and cycling.
Are vertical climbers worth it?
Yes, a vertical climber is worth investing in if you're looking for a high-calorie-burning, low-impact, at-home workout machine.
Which is better: an elliptical or vertical climber?
It comes down to personal preference. They're both cardio machines. Ellipticals are even more low-impact than vertical climbers, but a vertical climbing workout is going to burn a lot more calories than an elliptical workout.
Do vertical climbers help build muscle?
Yes, especially vertical climbers with adjustable resistance. Adding resistance on a vertical climber while you're working out is going to build muscle faster than exercising on a vertical climber that only uses body weight. However, you will build muscle on both climbers that have adjustable resistance and those that use only body weight.
About the Author
Nicolette is a writer, and health and fitness expert. Nicolette is a quadruple-certified master fitness instructor and teaches indoor cycling, barre, yoga, and versa climbing. As a writer, Nicolette specializes in tech pertaining to all things exercise-related.
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