Gibbon Slacklines Classicline XL Review

The Gibbon Classic Line claims to be one of the first fully complete slackline kits available, and for a while, they were one of the only well-known makers of ratchet based slacklines out there.

Performance Comparison

Ease of Set-up

The Classic Line XL is one of the most straightforward slacklines to set up. The ratchet is effective at tensioning the webbing even at its full length due to using a less stretchy material.

The Tree protection that comes with the kit is decent for smaller trees, however with only 40" to work with, we often had to borrow pads from other sets to get around larger trees. We recommend picking up an extra set from the Gibbon web site to make sure your bases are covered.

Versatility

Though this line does not come standard with an overhead training line, one can be purchased separately and this line makes a great starter-line due to the less dynamic style webbing. If you slackline long enough, however, you may find that the Classic Line webbing lacks the dynamic feel to challenge yourself. You can create more of a challenge by loosening the line or making it tighter than what you normally find comfortable. The extra length will also fit in more locations and extend the fun factor as you work to master longer lines.

Quality

The thick nature of this two-inch webbing lends itself to being more durable than some others, but even with this kit, it's important to pay close attention to how the webbing runs inside the ratchet drum so that it doesn't abraid the edge of the webbing when it's released.

The ratchet is the same basic run-of-the-mill two-inch ratchet that most slacklines use and we had zero problems with it. Gone are the days of ratchets breaking or skipping a tooth. However, it's still crucial to lock the handle in place.

Disassembly

The disassembly of the Classic Line XL is no different than the majority of the other basic rigs in our test. This line can be slightly more jarring if the line is set up long and tight but that is due to more slack being popped loose. Watch your fingers and follow the directions and you won't have an issue.

Features

The Classic Line XL comes with a set of 40" tree pads and a simple ratchet cover. The pads are on the short side but will work for small trees.

The ratchet cover is there for aesthetics, but also, it's hard to forget to lock the ratchet handle if you wrap the whole shebang with the cover, so it does add to the safety of the kit.

Value

This kit is a pretty good all-around rig for those not looking to do crazy tricks, and for the price, we think its absolutely worth it. The time tested webbing and ratchet isn't likely to cause you any trouble and Gibbon has a long reputation for making quality gear.

Conclusion

The Classic Line XL is great for those looking for a basic line, but with the added length (82'), it will keep the beginner challenged for a long time. The extra length also allows you to find more options for where to put it. Not every park or backyard has the perfectly spaced trees, so we loved the versatility that that extra length afforded.