Climbing a steel pole is not significantly different from its wooden counterpart, but obviously, there are differences. Climbing gear such as the strapped-on leg "climbers" with their sharp gaffs designed for wood can't be used at all on steel poles. However, other climbing gear is the same: climber's body belt, safety strap, hard toe climbing shoes with good arch support, hard hat, work gloves and safety glasses. Some companies also require a fall restraint system.