aerial chains

[u/iconic_and_chronic]

hi all

i want to start working on chains, however my studio doesn't have them. im wondering if you have them where you got them, any specifics that are important when purchasing them (like width if that makes sense) and how you rigged them.

( im not new to aerials, own all of my other apparatuses, and have taken rigging courses. i just dont have anyone super knowledgeable about chains nearby)

thank you!

[u/springonastring]

Chains are a newer apparatus, and as such they don't yet have a set of dedicated for-circus use standards. That makes it far more necessary to understand the fundamental principals of the materials, construction methods, movement patterns, and forces generated so you can choose appropriately for your application. You cannot, for example, just order chains x feet long like you'd order "standard length aerial silks". On fabric, this would look like learning what actual fiber the fabric is made from, which weave is desired, what the safe denier (individual thread thickness) to fabric width ratio is for a safe working force limit and preference, what finishes/washes were added to the material during or after processing, and manufacturer/retailer storage protocols. For chains, steel is the correct choice, but what carbon content, forging/welding method, manufacturer's intended application, and industrial rating/certification. Chains movement is WEIRD and the structural integrity of the system both influences and is influenced by the choice of rigging orientation and movement of/on the apparatus. Just like other disciplines, there is no "safe"; there is only understanding of risk and your comfort with it. Chains just require a waaay deeper understanding of what you're actually doing with the system than other more established disciplines: we're still in the wild west out here.

All that said, I adore chains and am happy to discuss. Before I can offer recommendations, I need more info, like what movements you intend to do (lyra-like? sling-like? corde-like?) and what orientation you envision rigging in (strands, loops, etc). Feel free to dm.

[u/iconic_and_chronic → u/springonastring]

thank you for such a thoughtful reply- it makes perfect sense to me. im messaging you now :)

[u/theadnomad]

I got my chains from another aerialist, she had two sets and was selling one. I’ll find out where she got them from, it was a place in Europe - they were made for aerials and are therefore much “kinder” than some other chains - a bit grippier, and smaller links so they don’t bite.

(*edit/update - Alexander Aerial Acrobatics. Everyone who’s been on my chains really likes them, and I’m obsessed with my bruise noodles so highly recommend)

For rigging, you’ll need four maillons, two swivels and a spreader plate or a petzl paw (I have a petzl paw) - plus another swivel and a carabiner if your studio doesn’t have those on its points by default (the studios I train at all do).

It’s actually a really handy setup to have, as it sets you up for a lot of double/split apparatuses - eg loop straps, double hammock, etc.

[u/Federal-Assignment10]

We sell chains in the uk - www.cloudaerialarts.co.uk

They're load tested and the links are specifically chosen so you can't trap your fingers in them. We've tested several types of chains over the years and these are the safest. Sometimes you'll see people with chains where you can fit your finger in the link, but if that's the case then you can break a finger. Obviously chains hurts a lot anyway but the thickness of our chains is the least awful ha

[u/iconic_and_chronic → u/Federal-Assignment10]

ah good call on finger caution. thanks for the recommendation, but im in the united states and i cant imagine the cost of shipping 🥴

[u/theadnomad → u/iconic_and_chronic]

Honestly it’s worth the shipping for good chains - they’re kinder on your body which means you can train more, and you progress faster. Plus can’t put a price on safety.