Comparison Table
- SCORE9.0
- BrandBlack Diamond
Last update on 2023-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
Construction
Harnesses have evolved along with climbing. Harnesses were considered a "just in case" piece of equipment fifty years ago when climbers hardly ever pushed themselves to the point of falling. These swami belts or basic nylon outfits were most definitely not made with comfort in mind. But as multi-pitch routes climbed steeper and steeper features as sport climbing gained popularity, climbers began to expect more from their harnesses, and the requirement for increased comfort became critical. Along with enlarged leg loops and waist straps, foam padding was added. We distinguish between the padded and unpadded versions in today's top picks using the materials utilized to distribute the weight: foam and split webbing.
Sizing and Adjustability
As crucial as choosing the proper harness for your favorite climbing style is acquiring the right size for your harness. Unfortunately, since that's what you often wear in jeans, it's not as simple as stepping into the store and selecting a medium-sized harness. Sizing involves taking into account a variety of factors, including the belay loop's length (shorter ones force the leg loops higher into the crotch, which is uncomfortable for people with high hips), the waist belt's physical shape, and the degree of adjustability provided by the waist and leg buckles. Even though not all harnesses feature leg buckles, we nevertheless advise using them if you have strong legs or if you're a winter climber who needs to be able to add or remove layers.
It's a good idea to try a harness on before you buy it, just like you should with anything you wear. When you get to the store, put it on, make the necessary adjustments, and hang in it. The waist belt should be positioned over your hips, higher than you wear your pants (most climbing shops and gyms have an area for you to do so). Take some falls in the harness if you have the chance to do so, just to feel how it feels. You should be able to fit two fingers between your body and the waistbelt or leg loops in a harness; it doesn't need to be incredibly snug to be safe. The leg loops on every harness will include elastic risers to help them stay close to the tops of your thighs. While some may be easily released with tiny buckles for quick restroom trips, others cannot. These should be wound around your legs so that the loops stay in place, but not so tightly that you are unable to move.
1. Which Climbing Harness Is Best?
The harness that best meets your climbing needs, both now and in the future, is the finest climbing harness. Since comfort is the most important factor for novices, search for a harness that fits well and feels comfortable while you're just starting. There are many different sorts of climbers and climbing. It could take time and some trial and error to find the ideal harness.
2. The Lifespan of Climbing Harnesses?
Climbing harnesses can last anywhere from a few months to many years, depending on the use and frequency. Although there are numerous variables, it is challenging to forecast how long a climbing harness will endure. In general, harnesses made of stronger materials and with a bulkier design will last longer than ultralight and low-profile choices.
3. How comfortable are climbing harnesses?
All of the harnesses on this list, in our opinion, provide an adequate level of comfort for the use for which they were designed. However, the majority of climbing harnesses do not provide the same level of comfort as a pair of sweatpants, so it is typically a relief to take your harness off at the end of a climbing session.
Final thoughts
Regardless of whether you're seeking the finest deal or not, we've done our best to provide you with dependable choices for the Best Climbing Harnesses! We sincerely hope that the information presented here has aided in your search, and we wish you much success on the mountain!
Our top picks