What was recalled
In September of 2022, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving a specific line of home improvement products manufactured by Tethrd. The company, which specializes in equipment for professional and DIY tree climbers, issued this alert for its One Stick GEN 2 climbing sticks. This is not a vague or broad recall affecting an entire brand’s history; rather, it targets a very precise subset of inventory produced during the 2022 model year. Understanding exactly which units are affected is the first critical step in ensuring your safety and securing your remedy.
The specific products subject to this recall are the Tethrd One Stick GEN 2 climbing sticks. These items were not sold indefinitely but were part of a finite production run defined by their serial numbers. If you own one of these sticks, you need to check the unique identifier assigned to it to determine if it falls within the recalled range. The affected serial numbers begin at THSP-TONE-010000 and extend through THSP-TONE-017749. This means that any unit with a serial number lower than 10,000 or higher than 17,749 is not part of this specific safety alert. However, because the range is contiguous, all units within those boundaries are included in the recall.
To help you locate the correct identification on your equipment, the manufacturer has provided clear instructions on where to look. The serial number is printed directly on the back side of the rope locking system, which Tethrd refers to as the Dynaloc. Visually, this component is distinct: it appears as a black rectangle situated on the side of the stick and features the silver Tethrd logo prominently displayed on its surface. This visual cue is important because it distinguishes the relevant part of the climbing stick from other components that may look similar but do not contain the critical serial data.
While the recall notice does not provide a detailed breakdown of the total volume of units sold or specific retail locations where these sticks were purchased, it confirms that Tethrd is actively contacting all known purchasers directly. This direct outreach suggests that the company maintains records of who bought these items and is taking proactive steps to inform them. However, relying solely on this contact may not be sufficient for everyone. If you are unsure whether you own a affected unit, or if you have misplaced your documentation, you must verify the serial number yourself using the physical inspection method described above. This recall highlights the importance of keeping records of high-value safety equipment and knowing how to inspect it regularly.
The scope of this recall is limited to the 2022 model year production run. It does not extend to earlier generations of the One Stick, nor does it cover later models that may have been produced after September 2022. If you purchased a Tethrd climbing stick before or after this specific window, and your serial number falls outside the THSP-TONE-010000 to THSP-TONE-017749 range, your product is not part of this particular safety alert. Nevertheless, always exercise caution with climbing equipment, regardless of the model year, and stay informed about future updates from the manufacturer.
The hazard, explained
When you are climbing a ladder, every rung and step must feel solid under your weight. With the Tethrd One Stick GEN 2 climbing sticks being recalled, that sense of security can be compromised by a subtle but dangerous structural flaw. The core issue lies in the material integrity of the steps themselves. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), when you place pressure on the unit—whether you are stepping up, shifting your weight, or simply standing still—one or more of these climbing stick's steps can crack. This is not necessarily a visible defect from the moment you take it out of the box; rather, it is a failure that occurs under load.
Think of the step as a bridge between the side rails of the ladder. In a well-functioning unit, the force of your body weight is distributed evenly across the material. However, in these recalled models, the material appears to lack the necessary resilience or strength to handle that pressure without developing fractures. Once a crack forms, it doesn't just stay put; it compromises the structural integrity of that specific step. The next time you apply weight to that area, the weakened step is likely to break completely.
How does this lead to injury? It comes down to physics and balance. When you are elevated on a ladder, your center of gravity is higher than usual, making you less stable than you would be on the ground. If a step suddenly snaps under your foot, you lose your primary point of support instantly. This can cause you to slip sideways or backward. Because the steps are often spaced closely together, there is very little room to catch yourself. You might grab the side rail, but if your foot drops through where the step used to be, your body weight pulls you down, potentially causing you to lose your grip on the rails as well.
The result is a fall from height. Even a fall from just a few feet can cause significant harm, ranging from sprains and bruises to more serious injuries like fractures or head trauma. The fact that five reports of steps breaking have been received by Tethrd confirms that this is not a hypothetical risk but an active failure mode. While no injuries have been reported so far, the mechanism of injury is clear: the step fails under pressure, leading to an uncontrolled fall. This is why stopping use immediately is critical—you cannot predict when or if the next step will hold your weight.
Who is most at risk
The primary group affected by this recall includes individuals who own and regularly use the Tethrd One Stick GEN 2 climbing sticks, specifically those with serial numbers ranging from THSP-TONE-010000 to THSP-TONE-017749. While the mechanical failure of a step poses a risk to any user regardless of age or fitness level, certain demographics face heightened vulnerability due to the nature of the hazard and the physical demands of climbing.
Climbing enthusiasts who rely on these sticks for ascending steep terrain are the most directly exposed to the danger. The defect involves steps cracking under pressure, which means that anyone bearing their full body weight on a single stick is at immediate risk of sudden collapse. For experienced climbers who may be pushing their limits or navigating difficult inclines, a fall from even a moderate height can result in serious injury. The fact that five reports of broken steps have already been received indicates that this is not a rare edge case but a potential failure mode that can occur during normal use.
Elderly individuals and those with reduced mobility or balance issues are particularly at risk when using climbing aids. Many people purchase climbing sticks to assist them in maintaining stability while hiking or navigating uneven ground. If a step breaks unexpectedly, the loss of support can lead to a fall that would have been avoided if the stick had remained intact. For older adults, whose bones may be more fragile and whose recovery times longer, such a fall could result in fractures or other severe injuries that significantly impact their quality of life and independence.
Children and younger users who might not fully understand the mechanical limitations of the equipment are also vulnerable. They may apply force to the steps in ways that exacerbate the cracking issue, unaware that the structure is compromised. Additionally, children’s smaller stature might lead them to use the climbing sticks in unconventional ways, potentially putting uneven stress on the components and increasing the likelihood of failure.
Furthermore, anyone using the stick in adverse weather conditions or on slippery surfaces faces compounded risks. Wet or icy conditions reduce friction between the climber’s foot and the step, requiring more grip and pressure to maintain stability. This increased demand on the climbing stick can accelerate the cracking process, making a sudden break more likely. Therefore, users who often climb in challenging environments should be especially cautious and heed the recall notice immediately.
In summary, while the risk is universal for all owners of the affected models, those with pre-existing physical vulnerabilities, older adults relying on stability, and individuals using the sticks in difficult conditions are most susceptible to severe outcomes. It is crucial for all users to stop using the recalled product and contact Tethrd for a replacement to ensure their safety.
How to tell if you have the recalled item
If you own a set of Tethrd climbing sticks, specifically the One Stick GEN 2 model from the 2022 production year, it is critical that you verify whether your specific unit is part of this recall before taking any further action. Because the safety issue relates to structural integrity under pressure, simply knowing the brand name is not enough; you must confirm the exact model and serial number range to ensure you are dealing with the affected products. The recall specifically targets 2022 model year Tethrd One Stick GEN 2 climbing sticks. If your equipment was purchased in a different year or is a different generation of the product, it may not be subject to this specific safety alert, though checking the manufacturer’s website for any other notices is always a wise precaution.
The most definitive way to identify if your climbing stick is included in this recall is by locating and reading the serial number. This unique identifier is printed directly on the equipment itself, so you will need to inspect the physical product rather than relying solely on purchase receipts or email confirmations, although those documents may help you narrow down your purchase date. Look for the rope locking system, which is described as a black rectangular component situated on the side of the stick. On this black rectangle, you will find the silver Tethrd logo. The serial number is located on the back side of this specific rope locking system, commonly referred to as the Dynaloc. You may need to rotate the stick or look closely at the rear face of this side-mounted component to read the code clearly.
Once you have found the serial number, compare it against the specific range identified by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The recalled items fall within a precise numerical window: serial numbers ranging from THSP-TONE-010000 to THSP-TONE-017749. If your serial number begins with the prefix "THSP-TONE-" and the subsequent digits fall anywhere between 010000 and 017749, inclusive, your climbing stick is part of this recall. It is important to check every digit carefully, as numbers outside this range are not covered by this specific safety notice. For example, a serial number ending in 009999 or starting with 017750 would not be included in this batch.
If you cannot locate the serial number on the device itself, or if the marking is worn and illegible, do not guess. The recall information does not provide alternative identification methods based on color or size alone, as these variables are not mentioned as reliable indicators. In such cases, your next step should be to contact Tethrd directly using the consumer contact information provided in the recall notice. They can assist you in verifying your unit’s status. Remember, if you have any doubt about whether your specific stick is included, it is safest to assume it might be and refrain from using it until you have confirmation from the manufacturer. Your physical safety depends on accurate identification of this hazard.
What to do — step by step
If you own a Tethrd One Stick GEN 2 climbing stick, the most important thing you can do right now is prioritize your safety over convenience. The manufacturer has identified a specific structural weakness where steps may crack under pressure, which directly leads to fall hazards. Because this defect can happen without warning while you are elevated, ignoring the issue is not an option. Please follow these concrete steps immediately to protect yourself and resolve the situation with the company. First and foremost, stop using the recalled climbing stick immediately. Do not climb on it, lean against it, or use it for any purpose, even if it looks perfectly fine from the outside. The reports indicate that five units have already experienced step failures. Since these breaks can occur suddenly under normal weight, continuing to use the product puts you at significant risk of injury. Treat every recalled unit as potentially unstable until the manufacturer confirms otherwise through their official testing process. Next, locate your serial number to confirm your specific model details. You will need this information if you contact customer support, although Tethrd states they are contacting all known purchasers directly. The serial number is located on the back side of the rope locking system, which is the black rectangle on the side of the stick featuring the silver Tethrd logo. For the 2022 model year units involved in this recall, the serial numbers range from THSP-TONE-010000 to THSP-TONE-017749. If your number falls within this range, your unit is definitely part of this safety alert. Once you have confirmed the product is recalled and stopped using it, reach out to Tethrd for instructions on how to return the item. The company has committed to covering all costs associated with this process. You can contact them by phone at 612-643-9331 between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you may send an email to testing@tethrdnation.com or visit their website at https://tethrdnation.com/safety-recall-notice/ for detailed online instructions. Clicking "Safety Recall Notice" on their main site will also guide you through the process. Finally, prepare to return the stick at no cost to you. Tethrd’s remedy involves having the stick tested to see if it conforms to their specifications. If it is found not to conform, they will replace it free of charge. Do not attempt to repair the unit yourself or discard it in regular trash, as this could pose safety risks to others or violate environmental guidelines for electronic or mechanical components. Wait for the specific shipping label and return instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the process goes smoothly and you receive your replacement promptly.Your refund, repair, or replacement options
If you have determined that you own one of the recalled Tethrd One Stick GEN 2 climbing sticks, it is important to understand exactly how the manufacturer intends to resolve the issue. The good news is that Tethrd has established a clear and consumer-friendly remedy for this recall. They are not asking you to pay for the inconvenience or the risk they have identified. Instead, they are offering to take back the product and replace it with a new one at absolutely no cost to you. This "no-cost" aspect is critical; you should never be charged for shipping, handling, or the replacement unit itself under this recall program.
The process begins with you reaching out to Tethrd directly. While the company states that they are contacting all known purchasers directly, it is always safer to take proactive steps if you have not yet heard from them. You can initiate the return process by calling their dedicated support line at 612-643-9331. Their team is available to assist you from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Central Time, Monday through Friday. If you prefer written communication or need more detailed documentation, you may also email them at testing@tethrdnation.com.
Once you have made contact, Tethrd will provide you with specific instructions on how to return the recalled climbing stick. Do not attempt to dispose of the product in your regular trash before speaking with them, as they need to physically inspect the item. The manufacturer has stated that they will have the stick tested to determine if it conforms to their safety specifications. This testing phase is part of their quality assurance process to confirm the defect. If the inspection determines that the stick does not meet specifications—which is highly likely given the nature of this recall—you will be sent a replacement unit.
You can also find additional information and potentially start the process online by visiting https://tethrdnation.com/safety-recall-notice/ or by going to their main website at https://www.tethrdnation.com and clicking on the "Safety Recall Notice" link. This digital portal may offer further guidance on packaging and shipping labels if they are provided digitally. Remember, the goal here is to get you a safe, functional product without any financial burden. By following these steps and using the official contact channels listed above, you ensure that your return is processed correctly and that you receive the full benefit of the manufacturer's warranty and recall commitment.
What can happen if you ignore it
When a product recall involves structural integrity issues like cracking steps on climbing equipment, the temptation to "make do" or continue using the item until it visibly fails can be strong. After all, if the stick held your weight once, it might hold it again. However, ignoring this specific safety alert from the CPSC and Tethrd is not merely an inconvenience; it is a gamble with your physical safety that you cannot afford to take. The core issue here is that the hazard is latent, meaning it often presents no obvious warning signs until the moment of failure. Under pressure, one or more of the climbing stick's steps can crack internally or subtly before breaking completely. This means the device may appear perfectly functional to the naked eye while its structural capacity is already compromised.
If you continue to use a recalled One Stick GEN 2 climbing stick, you are placing your full body weight on components that may be moments away from catastrophic failure. The primary consequence of ignoring this recall is a severe fall. When a step breaks under load, the support disappears instantly. For someone standing at height, even just a few feet off the ground, this sudden loss of footing can lead to hard impacts with the floor or surrounding structures. While Tethrd has currently reported five instances where a step broke and noted that no injuries have been reported so far, the absence of injury in past reports is not a guarantee of future safety. It is statistically possible for one of those five incidents to result in a minor bruise today and a broken bone or head trauma tomorrow, depending on exactly how the user falls and what they land on.
Beyond the immediate risk of falling, continuing to use this equipment can lead to secondary injuries. A sudden collapse of the climbing stick can cause you to lose your balance in unpredictable ways, leading to twisted ankles, sprained wrists, or back injuries as you try to catch yourself. Furthermore, if the step breaks while you are holding onto other parts of the stick, those remaining components may also fail under the redistributed shock load, potentially causing the entire unit to collapse rather than just a single step giving way. This cascading failure mode makes the situation even more dangerous than it initially appears.
There is also a psychological and practical toll to ignoring the recall. You are living with the uncertainty of whether your specific unit is among the defective ones (serial numbers THSP-TONE-010000 to THSP-TONE-017749) or if it has already developed a micro-fracture. This anxiety undermines the very purpose of using such equipment, which is typically for exercise, training, or utility. By choosing not to act, you are prioritizing short-term convenience over long-term well-being. The remedy offered—testing and potential replacement at no cost—is designed to eliminate this risk entirely. Ignoring it leaves you exposed to a known, preventable hazard that could result in serious harm for which there is no recourse other than medical treatment and personal loss.