A climbing aid is a tool used to help climbers ascend a surface. The most common climbing aids are ladders, pitons, and rungs. Ladders are a series of steps connected by two long side pieces, usually made of metal or wood. Pitons are metal spikes that are driven into the rock face to provide a secure hold for the climber. Rungs are metal or wooden bars that are attached to the rock face and provide a foothold for the climber. All three of these tools are essential for any climber looking to ascend a surface.