Leatherman’s Tread seeks to make a range of multi-tool features available in a form that is acceptable in areas with specific restrictions like airports, theme parks, or schools. While it certainly does not bring the capability of a full form Leatherman tool, it fits a specific niche which some of those tools simply cannot reach.
According to Leatherman, the Tread project started after an experience that Leatherman President Ben Rivera had on a family vacation to Disneyland. While entering the park, Rivera found that the Leatherman Skeletool that he was carrying was not allowed into the park and was denied entry until he returned without it. After that experience, Rivera and his team set out to develop a multi-tool that would exclude tools that violate restrictions, while still retaining some useful capabilities in a new, wearable form.
We are evaluating this model as an EDC item and will continue to update our thoughts going forward. The model that we are looking at here is the standard stainless model. It is also available in a black DLC variant, as well as a metric variant. This particular model features a polished, brushed finish on the outside and a matte finish on the inside of the band. The finish picks up hairline scratches over time just as any stainless watchband would. These scratches generally can only be seen when light hits a link just right and do not really harm its appearance at all.
The bracelet is comprised of several 17-4 Stainless Steel links that each contain a few tools. Generally, the standard layout is a screwdriver on each side with a box wrench in the center. The bits are capable of turning a range of Philips, flat, and hex screws. One of the center wrenches has a rectangular shape and can be used to open oxygen tanks. Another link merges a few special use tools including a carbide glass breaker, cutting hook, and a SIM card pick.
The clasp even brings a few useful functions as it acts as a bottle opener as well as accepts 1/4’’ sockets. It also has a #2 Square Drive bit. The links are held together with flathead screws and metal joining parts. Removing these screws can be easily accomplished with a flathead screwdriver or coin for easy adjustment. Although, it should be noted that adjustment does come at the cost of losing some tools. In our case, we had to remove one of the full-size (0.5”) links as well as the only half size (1/4”) link.
In use, the screwdrivers pick up some wear given the soft, but corrosion resistant steel used. As such, the tool might not stand up well to repetitive hard use, but that type of use would probably be accomplished better by other Leatherman tools or dedicated tools anyway. This one is designed for use cases where you might not have access to or be able to carry anything else, and in a backup role like that it functions well.
Another use we found for the Tread is quickly assessing the size of tool needed to make an adjustment, particularly with the hex bits and box wrenches. Leatherman’s engravings on the back of each link provide the exact size. If a tool on a link fits, you know exactly what size bit, socket, or wrench is needed. We have not had the opportunity to put the glass breaker to use, but the cutting hook, bottle opener, and SIM Card pick all do exactly what they are supposed to.
As a steel multi-tool that is worn on the wrist, corrosion might be a concern particularly due to regular exposure to sweat. While that was a concern that we initially had, we have seen no visible rust or signs of corrosion in over a year of use. The only maintenance that we have done is wiping it down with a damp cloth and drying it occasionally if exposed to sweat. We do not find the Tread to be uncomfortable, although it does take time to adjust to the weight. The design manages to keep the bits from poking into the wrist while also preventing them from sticking above the band. Managing to strike that balance shows the care that went into the design and engineering of the tool and we were impressed by it. In addition, despite how chunky the links appear in images, they do manage to slide under shirt cuffs quite well, which makes it easier to wear every day.
Overall, we find that we like the Tread and continue to wear one often. It may not be perfect, is not for everyone, and it is expensive for what it is. However, we applaud Leatherman for taking a risk and trying something new and different. It could easily have sat back and pushed out iteration after iteration of the pliers based tools that made it famous and remain on top of its market. Instead it recognized an opportunity to introduce a multi-tool in a completely new form factor for a world with growing restrictions.
Tool Summary:
LINK 1 - 3/32” Screwdriver & 1/8” Screwdriver
LINK 2 - #1-2 Phillips Screwdriver, 1/4” Box Wrench, 3/16” Screwdriver
LINK 3 – N/A
LINK 4 - Cutting Hook, SIM Card Pick, & Carbide Glass Breaker
LINK 5- N/A
LINK 6 - 5/16” Screwdriver, 3/8” Box Wrench, & 1/4” Screwdriver
LINK 7 - 3/32” Hex Drive, 3/16” Box Wrench, 1/8” Hex Drive
LINK 8 - 1/4” Hex Drive, Oxygen Tank Wrench, 3/16” Hex Drive
LINK 9 - 5mm Hex Drive, 10mm Box Wrench, 6mm Hex Drive
LINK 10 - 3mm Hex Drive, 8mm Box Wrench, & 4mm Hex Drive
LINK 11 - #1 Phillips Screwdriver, 6mm Box Wrench, & #2 Phillips Screwdriver
LINK 12 - 1/4 Socket Adapter, Bottle Opener, & #2 Square Drive
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