| A rappelling harness can literally be your lifeline on a | | | | pair of leg loops joined together in the front with a |
| climb. The rope harness attaches you to the climbing | | | | belay loop. They can be adjustable to allow for a |
| rope, and its fit and quality can determine how safely | | | | more customized fit. It's possible these separately for |
| and comfortably you can make your way down a | | | | maximum customization. Climbers should never |
| wall. With so much riding on those bits of rope, | | | | attempt a climb wearing just leg loops or just waist |
| leather, canvas and metal, it only makes sense to | | | | belts because of safety considerations. |
| choose a rappelling harness that fits your body and | | | | Diaper harnesses are harnesses that consist of a |
| suits your climbing style. These tips will help you | | | | waist belt with the leg loop sewn into it, like a diaper. |
| choose the best rope harness for your particular | | | | The leg loop and waist belt are typically both |
| needs. | | | | adjustable, and the leg loops may be detachable to |
| Different Harness Styles for Different Climbing Styles | | | | allow climbers ease in changing clothing or taking toilet |
| Multipurpose harnesses are designed to be used in | | | | breaks. |
| many different climbing situations. Because they offer | | | | These two types of harnesses can be used by |
| most of the features you'll need for any type of | | | | anyone with training, but are best suited to male |
| sport climbing, they're the ideal choice for a beginner. | | | | body types. |
| Among the features to look for: | | | | Full body harnesses are designed for slim, |
| - padded leg loops and waist belts | | | | narrow-hipped adults and for children. In addition to |
| - detachable leg loop | | | | the waist belt and leg loop, a full body harness also |
| - gear racking loops | | | | fits over the shoulders to help keep the climber in |
| - detachable front loop for easy attachment to | | | | the harness if a fall results in them being turned |
| belaying or rappel lines | | | | upside down. They also are designed to tie in higher, |
| Alpine harnesses are designed for serious expeditions | | | | reducing the risk of flipping backward during a climb. |
| and long mountain climbs. The major focus is on light | | | | Chest harnesses are additions rather than separate |
| weight and durable, strong materials. Features to | | | | harnesses, as they should always be used with a |
| consider include: | | | | seat harness. They are designed to help prevent |
| - minimal padding to reduce bulk and weight | | | | backward falls and turning upside down during |
| - non-absorbent materials to withstand wet weather | | | | dangerous climbs. Chest and seat harnesses together |
| - adjustable waist belt and leg loop | | | | are more versatile than a full body harness because |
| - detachable leg loops to allow for easy toilet breaks | | | | they allow the chest harness to be removed when |
| Big wall harnesses are designed for doing multi-day | | | | it's not needed. |
| climbs in multi-pitch environments. The focus is on | | | | Women's harnesses are designed specifically to |
| comfort and durability. Features to look for in big wall | | | | account for the differences between men's and |
| harnesses are: | | | | women's typical body shapes. They have a longer |
| - padded waist belts and leg loops | | | | rise, smaller waist and larger leg loop size than unisex |
| - multiple gear loops | | | | rope harnesses and provide a better, safer fit for |
| - full-strength haul loop | | | | women climbers. |
| - adjustable waist belt for better fit | | | | Choosing the right rappelling harness will make your |
| Competition harnesses are designed for speed | | | | climbing experience safer and more comfortable. |
| events and competition climbs. They're lightweight, | | | | Take the time to learn about the differences |
| slim and feature few frills. | | | | between the different types and styles of |
| Rope Harness Types - Which is right for you? | | | | harnesses, and be sure to fit them properly to your |
| Leg loop/waist belt harnesses are the simplest form | | | | body. Your life could depend on it. |
| of rope harness. They consist of a waist belt and a | | | | |