When it comes to climbing, whether you’re scaling the artificial walls of a gym or the natural rock faces of a mountainside, a reliable climbing harness is an absolute necessity. In 2022, the market was brimming with a diverse range of climbing harnesses, each designed to meet the unique demands of different climbers, from beginners taking their first steps in the world of climbing to seasoned pros embarking on challenging multi – pitch routes. The right harness not only ensures your safety during a fall but also provides comfort and functionality throughout your climbing adventures.
Criteria for Choosing a Climbing Harness
Safety First and Foremost
Safety should always be at the forefront of your mind when selecting a climbing harness. Look for harnesses that carry certifications from well – respected organizations such as the UIAA (Union Internationale des Associations d’Alpinisme) or CE (Conformité Européene). These certifications signify that the harness has undergone rigorous testing to meet specific safety requirements. A high – quality harness is engineered to evenly distribute the force of a fall across your body, reducing the risk of injury. The stitching on a safe harness is strong and secure, and the materials used are durable and able to withstand the stress of climbing. Additionally, the buckles and hardware should be of high – grade quality, ensuring they don’t fail under pressure.
Comfort for Long – Haul Climbing
Climbing can be physically strenuous, and you’ll likely spend hours in your harness. Thus, comfort is a crucial factor. A comfortable harness will have well – padded areas, especially around the waist and leg loops. The padding should be thick enough to prevent chafing and discomfort but not so bulky that it restricts your movement. Adjustable straps are also essential as they allow you to customize the fit according to your body shape. Some harnesses are designed with breathable materials, which is a great advantage, especially during hot weather or long climbs. Breathable materials help keep you cool and dry, preventing sweating that could lead to discomfort or even slipping within the harness.
Functionality Tailored to Your Climbing Style
The type of climbing you do will significantly influence the functionality you need in a harness. For sport climbing, where you clip into fixed bolts for protection, a harness with smaller gear loops might be sufficient as you only need to carry a few quickdraws. On the other hand, trad climbers, who place their own gear for protection, require a harness with multiple and sturdy gear loops to carry a variety of climbing equipment such as cams, nuts, and extra ropes. Ice climbers need harnesses with specific features like ice clipper slots to hold ice screws and tools. Some harnesses also come with additional attachment points for items like helmets or belay devices, enhancing their overall functionality.
Durability for Long – Term Use
A good climbing harness should be able to endure the wear and tear of regular use. Look for harnesses constructed from high – quality materials that are resistant to abrasion. Nylon and polyester are commonly used materials in harness construction due to their strength and durability. The stitching on the harness should be double – stitched or have reinforced seams to prevent ripping. The buckles and hardware should be made of corrosion – resistant materials, especially if you plan to climb in areas with high humidity or near saltwater. A durable harness not only provides reliable performance but also saves you money in the long run as you won’t need to replace it as frequently.
Top Climbing Harnesses of 2022
Petzl Sama
Features
The Petzl Sama is a popular unisex harness known for its comfort and versatility. It features a flexible waistbelt that conforms well to the body, providing a snug yet comfortable fit. The leg loops are padded with a breathable material, which helps to keep you cool and dry during extended climbs. The harness comes with four gear loops, which are positioned in a way that makes it easy to access your climbing gear. The leg loop closure system is adjustable, allowing you to fine – tune the fit to your liking.
Pros
- Exceptionally comfortable, even during long periods of hanging. The padding on the waistbelt and leg loops is top – notch, reducing the risk of chafing.
- The breathable material used in the padding helps to manage sweat, keeping you more comfortable during hot climbs.
- The four gear loops are well – placed and provide enough space for carrying the necessary climbing gear, whether you’re sport climbing or doing some light trad climbing.
- The adjustable leg loop closure is easy to use, ensuring a secure fit every time.
Cons
- Some climbers might find the harness to be a bit on the heavier side compared to more minimalistic designs. This could be a drawback if you’re looking for a lightweight option for fast – and – light climbing.
- The price of the Petzl Sama is relatively high, which might be a deterrent for budget – conscious climbers or those just starting out in the sport.
Black Diamond Momentum
Features
The Black Diamond Momentum is a favorite among sport climbers and gym enthusiasts. It has a lightweight and streamlined design, which makes it ideal for quick – paced climbing. The waistbelt features a single – pass buckle, which is not only quick to adjust but also very secure. The leg loops are adjustable and have an elastic binding, which provides a comfortable and snug fit. The harness comes with two gear loops, which are sufficient for most sport climbing and gym climbing scenarios.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable, perfect for climbers who need to move quickly and freely. The design doesn’t add unnecessary bulk, allowing for greater mobility.
- The single – pass buckle on the waistbelt is convenient to use. You can quickly tighten or loosen it with one hand, even while wearing gloves.
- The elastic binding on the leg loops ensures a comfortable fit that doesn’t restrict movement. It also adapts well to different body sizes and shapes.
- It is more affordable compared to some other high – end harnesses, making it a great option for beginners or those on a budget.
Cons
- The two gear loops may not be enough for climbers who need to carry a large amount of gear, such as trad climbers or those doing multi – pitch climbs.
- The padding on the waistbelt and leg loops is relatively thin. While this contributes to its lightweight design, it may cause discomfort during long climbs for some users.
Mammut Ophir HS
Features
The Mammut Ophir HS is a high – performance harness designed for serious climbers, especially those into trad climbing and multi – pitch adventures. It has a durable construction, using a combination of high – strength materials that can withstand the harshest climbing conditions. The waistbelt and leg loops are fully adjustable, allowing for a precise fit. The harness features six gear loops, which is a significant advantage for trad climbers who need to carry a lot of equipment. It also has an anti – twist system, which helps to keep the harness in place and reduces the risk of tangling.
Pros
- Extremely durable, built to last through countless climbs. The materials used are of high quality and can resist abrasion and wear.
- The six gear loops provide ample space for carrying all the necessary climbing gear, including cams, nuts, and extra ropes.
- The anti – twist system is a great feature that enhances both safety and comfort. It ensures that the harness stays in the correct position, even during dynamic movements.
- The full adjustability of the waistbelt and leg loops means you can get a perfect fit, regardless of your body shape or the layers of clothing you’re wearing.
Cons
- Due to its robust construction, the harness is quite heavy. This may not be ideal for climbers who prefer a lightweight option, especially for activities like alpine climbing or long – distance hiking with climbing sections.
- The price is on the higher side, reflecting its high – end features and quality. This might be a limiting factor for some climbers, especially those on a tight budget.
Edelrid Eclipse
Features
The Edelrid Eclipse is a versatile harness suitable for a wide range of climbing styles, from sport climbing to trad climbing. It has a soft and flexible construction, which makes it comfortable to wear for long periods. The waistbelt and leg loops are padded with a high – quality foam material, providing excellent cushioning. The harness has four gear loops, which are angled for easy access to your gear. It also features a unique quick – adjust buckle system on the waistbelt, which allows for rapid adjustments.
Pros
- Comfortable and flexible, offering a great range of motion. The soft construction of the harness doesn’t restrict your movement, whether you’re making dynamic moves on a sport climb or traversing a tricky trad route.
- The angled gear loops are a practical feature. They make it easier to reach your climbing equipment, especially when you’re in a difficult position.
- The quick – adjust buckle system on the waistbelt is convenient and efficient. You can quickly tighten or loosen the waistbelt without having to fumble with traditional buckles.
- It offers good value for money. The combination of features and quality makes it a cost – effective choice for many climbers.
Cons
- The padding on the leg loops may not be as thick as some other high – end harnesses. This could potentially lead to discomfort during very long climbs or for climbers who require a lot of cushioning.
- While it is durable, it may not be the most robust option for extremely rough use or in very harsh environments.
Wild Country Revo
Features
The Wild Country Revo is a minimalist harness that is highly popular among boulderers and climbers who prefer a light – and – fast approach. It has a lightweight design with minimal padding, which keeps the weight down. The waistbelt and leg loops are adjustable, allowing for a custom fit. The harness features two gear loops, which are sufficient for carrying a small amount of gear, such as a couple of quickdraws.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight, making it perfect for climbers who want to minimize the weight they carry. This is especially beneficial for boulderers who are constantly on the move.
- The simple design makes it easy to put on and take off. There are no complicated buckles or excess features, which is a plus for those who prefer a no – frills approach.
- The adjustable straps allow you to get a snug and comfortable fit, despite the minimalistic design.
- It is an affordable option, making it accessible to climbers on a budget.
Cons
- The minimal padding may not be comfortable for long climbs or for climbers who prefer more cushioning. Without sufficient padding, there is a higher risk of chafing and discomfort.
- The two gear loops may not be enough for climbers who need to carry a lot of gear. If you’re doing trad climbing or multi – pitch climbs, you may find the lack of gear loops limiting.
How to Properly Fit a Climbing Harness
Waistbelt
The waistbelt of the harness should fit snugly around your natural waistline, which is typically just above your hips. It should be tight enough so that it doesn’t slide down during a fall but not so tight that it restricts your breathing or movement. You should be able to fit two fingers between the waistbelt and your body. If the waistbelt is too loose, it can move out of position during a fall, reducing its effectiveness. If it’s too tight, it can cause discomfort and make it difficult to climb.
Leg Loops
The leg loops should fit comfortably around your thighs. They should be adjusted so that there is a slight gap between the leg loops and your legs, just enough to prevent chafing but not so much that they can slide down. The leg loops should be high enough on your thighs to ensure they don’t slip during climbing. You should be able to move your legs freely without the leg loops causing any restrictions or rubbing.
Adjusting the Straps
Once you have the waistbelt and leg loops in the approximate position, start adjusting the straps. Make sure all the buckles are properly fastened and tightened. Walk around, bend, and stretch to test the fit. The harness should feel secure and comfortable all over your body. If you feel any pressure points or areas of discomfort, readjust the straps until you find the perfect fit.
Maintenance and Care of Climbing Harnesses
Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential to keep your climbing harness in good condition. Most harnesses can be hand – washed using mild soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh detergents or bleach as these can damage the materials. Gently scrub the harness to remove any dirt, sweat, or grime. Rinse it thoroughly and then let it air – dry in a well – ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can fade the colors and weaken the materials over time.
Inspecting for Damage
Before each use, carefully inspect your climbing harness for any signs of damage. Check the stitching for any loose threads, fraying, or broken stitches. Examine the buckles and hardware for signs of wear, corrosion, or deformation. Look at the fabric for any cuts, tears, or abrasions. If you notice any damage, no matter how small, do not use the harness. Even a minor defect could potentially compromise your safety. Consider having the harness repaired by a professional or replacing it if the damage is severe.
Storage
When not in use, store your climbing harness in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in a damp or humid environment as this can cause the materials to deteriorate. Hang the harness up by the waistbelt or leg loops to prevent it from getting wrinkled or deformed. Do not store it in a place where it can be exposed to sharp objects that could potentially damage the fabric or hardware.
Conclusion
In 2022, the climbing harness market offered a wide array of options to suit every climber’s needs. Whether you’re a beginner looking for an affordable and comfortable harness to start your climbing journey or an experienced climber in search of a high – performance, specialized harness for challenging routes, there was something for everyone. When choosing a climbing harness, always prioritize safety, comfort, functionality, and durability. By taking the time to select the right harness and properly maintain it, you can enhance your climbing experience and stay safe on the rocks. The Petzl Sama, Black Diamond Momentum, Mammut Ophir HS, Edelrid Eclipse, and Wild Country Revo are just a few of the top – performing harnesses of 2022, each with its own set of features and benefits. Consider your climbing style, budget, and personal preferences when making your decision, and you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect climbing harness for your adventures.
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