I use an API climber and love it. It has a (motorcycle style) chain that really grabs the tree.
It's fairly light at 21 lbs. Quite comfortable and well made. Not overly noisy due to a nice overspray and alittle caution. Depending on the model chosen, you are well surrounded by the stand and that can help ease your mind where heights are concerned. This brand is packaged well and comes w/a good safety harness. I've had mine since '03 and wouldn't hesitate to get this brand again when the time comes.