The tires make a lot of difference as well.. Rolling resistance still matters. plus you were on pavement.
look at a road bike they have narrow tires and the gearing on them is much higher, yet they climb much better than a mtb.
SS is ok, but in no way would it be a better climber. on a geared bike you can adjust the gear with the pitch of the climb to keep it going smoother, but on the 1x1 you going to have to mash. Mashing may be quicker, but it can wear you out before the top of a long climb..
just to chime in on the subject I have never used the lockout on my full suspension front or rear.