If you’re trying to decide what harness to get, look no further; The Camping Feed Staff has done all the homework for you and reviews the best climbing harnesses of 2024.
By: Camping Feed Staff | Last Updated: February 17, 2024
A climbing harness is a vital piece of equipment for any climber, from beginners learning to belay in the climbing wall to experienced climbers preparing for an ascent of Kilimanjaro. For climbers, a comfortable and secure harness is a must to stay safe when climbing. The best climbing harness for you will depend primarily on the type of climbing you’re planning to do. From sport climbing to rock climbing and mountaineering, there is a harness to cover all situations.
To help you evaluate the best climbing harnesses, we have included several key factors that should be considered when looking at a new harness. The overall design of these harnesses is fairly similar, but the stitching, fit, adjustability, features, and pockets of each harness are what separates one harness from another.
With all of this in mind, it is often hard to choose the perfect harness for you. This buyer’s guide pulls together all the essential information to enable you to make a well-informed decision.
Best Overall Climbing Harness
1. Metolius Safe Tech Trad Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: Trad
- Weight: 0.5 lbs
- Mobility: 5/5 Stars
- Durability: 5/5 Stars
- Pros: Easy to move in, Great Gear Loops for Multiple Accessories, Very Comfortable, Proprietary Safety Technologies
- Cons: Gear Loops are Flimsy
The Metolius Safe Tech Harness is by far the best on the market. Why? It is easy, the mobility and durability is unmatched. Not to mention, the Safe Tech components are equipped with speed-buckle locking and light sport materials that encourage freedom in movement and unmatched comfort.
When you are trad climbing, you want to be assured that you have a safe harness that has the gear loops that you need to hold your chalk bag, belay tools, carabiners, ropes, guides, and so much more. The Metolius Harness is equipped with four gear loops around the waistband and a rear haul loop with a slot system unique to Safe Tech harnesses. The innovative rear haul loop keeps pad in place even dual belay loops. This UIAA certified harness has adjustable leg loops and comes with the patented Metolius Safe Tech adjustable-rise 3-D system so that the harness fits you with a comfort that is unmatched. When you are hanging from a cliff, it is essential that you can find comfort, ease, and safety.
While many will say there is no substitute for experience, we’d like to add that experience is very much enhanced by the right equipment. The Metolius Trad harness is something that can make or break your climb, and with all the experiences you’re sure to have while climbing, it makes sense to opt for that has all of your ‘safety features’ covered! That is why the Metolius Safe Tech Trad Harness is on the top of the Camping Feed’s Best Climbing Harness of 2024.
Best Value For Money Climbing Harness
2. PETZL Corax Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 0.95 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Easy to Adjust, Convenient Front Loops, Lots of Space for Accessories
- Cons: Needs Padding Around the Buckles
The Petzl Corax is not only one of the most versatile harnesses on the market, but it is also one of the most affordable. The buckets and straps are easy to use and adjust to the perfect sizing for your body. While the harness is designed for mountaineering via Ferrata or rock climbing, this is also an excellent harness for indoor walls and trad climbing.
The Corax is also available in two sizes with various sizing in widths for people of all shapes and sizes. The padded and wide waist belt is very comfortable. Even with hours of hanging and climbing because the belt uses soft fabric to line your pressure point. Combined with the optimal weight distribution created by the frame, this harness is very comfortable and mobile.
As for the all-important gear loops, four gear loops wrap around the waistband and provide the space you need for all of your required climbing gear. The Petzl Corax also has two rigid front gear loops for unclipping of quickdraws and easy clipping of most items. Also, the harness has two rear gear loops that are flexible and easy to use. Finally, one center rear loop is ideally placed for carrying shoes, belay station gear, and other specialty items.
The entire system comes with compatibility with the Caritool Evo for holding and transporting your ice screws. However, the Caritool system is sold separately.
Harnesses are an essential piece of equipment for any climber. However, your harness is more than just a means to stay attached to the wall. It’s also about safety, comfort, and durability. That is why the Camping Feed Staff recommends a trusted brand and harness like the Petzl Corax.
Best Climbing Harness for Comfort
3. Black Diamond Momentum Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 0.66 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Comfortable, Great Waist Padding, Multiple Gear Loops for Various Accessories
- Cons: Hard to Find the Right Fit
You must consider comfort and weight when purchasing a harness. The Black Diamond is an all-around climber with a bit of experience’s dream! However, you need to understand that the time spent adjusting your waist belt and finding the perfect leg loop position is not time lost. The TrakFIT leg-loops adjust for you to create comfort on the hottest days and the coolest. Not to mention, you can change based on the type of climb from crag to multi-pitches.
You can’t have a great all-around harness without gear loops. The Black Diamond Momentum comes with four pressure-molded gear loops and a rear haul loop for attaching gear and belay tools. In addition, the Momentum comes with a highly adjustable system to find the perfect fit for you and never leave you without easy access to your tools.
Black Diamond created a pre-threaded “speed adjust” waist belt that saves time and eliminates the chance of a missed buckle or a faulty tying in to create a time-saving design for all climbers of all styles. In addition, the Dual-Core Construction creates additional comfort. It distributes your weight evenly across the harness, even when you’re high up in a hanging belay position for a long time.
The Black Diamond is a lightweight yet supremely comfortable climbing harness featuring a padded waist belt and leg loops. The leg loops ensure an even weight distribution, eliminating pressure points that can become painful under stress or longer climbs. They are also shaped from a super-strong, load-distributing material, keeping the Momentum’s weight to a minimum while providing maximum strength and comfort. Overall, this harness is the best climbing harness on 2024 list for convenience and overall appeal.
Best Lightest Climbing Harness
4. PETZL Sitta Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 0.66 lbs
- Mobility: 5/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Great Versatility, Bright Color is Great for Group Climbing, Comfortable, Lightweight
- Cons: Hard to fit over your clothing, Not much cushion
You know that you can always trust a Petzl climbing harness. The Sitta Climbing Harness is easily one of the lightest weight and versatile harnesses on the best climbing harness of 2024 list. The materials are created from the proprietary Spectra strands in the waist belt and leg loops with a wireframe technology construction. This allows for optimal load distribution and thin/lighter constructions without the use of large foam pads. Not to mention, when it is time to pack the harness in your bag, it is effortless to fold it up into almost nothing.
The Sitta does not let down the Petzl brand when it comes to durability and comfort. The design and fabric also help avoid pressure points and give the climber the optimal resistance for security. Not to mention there is no through stitching to cause chafe along with the waste. Also, the fixed leg loops create an excellent loop bridge to give you outstanding freedom of movement.
The aluminum DoubleBack HD buckle has a rounded design that is slim/sturdy enough to offer outstanding handling and a smooth strap guide for easy and fast adjustments. Finally, the adjustment strap is ribbed to help prevent the occasional accidental loosening.
The Sitta also comes with two tie-in points with a polyethylene wrap to improve the resistance and decrease wear related to rope friction. There are also two high-capacity front gear loops, a removable separator for organizing, racking, and quick access to your equipment, and two rear gear loops to fit any additional gear.
Best Climbing Harness for Durability
5. Fusion Climb Tac Rescue Tactical Full Body Harness
- Harness Type: Tactical/Zipline
- Weight: 5.91 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 5/5 Stars
- Pros: Durable Nylon, Great for Zipline & Rescue, Flat Foaming is Light and Comfortable
- Cons: Metal Loops make it heavy
Are you into extreme sports and zip lining? Numerous sports and activities are classified as “extreme,” such as ziplining, rock climbing, and even emergencies like fire and water rescues. While these activities themselves can be dangerous, you’ll need to make sure that you have the correct climbing harness, which will provide you with security and safety so that your activity doesn’t cause injury or worse. You also want to make sure that the harness you select is durable since it will be in very rugged conditions.
The Fusion Climb Harness is rated to 23kN, comes in large and extra-large sizes, and is typically black. It is the most durable harness on the market and ideal for ziplining and rescue situations. The padded back with ridges helps keep the wearer comfortable and relaxed. The Fusion also comes with replaceable foam shoulder pads for added comfort.
The climbing harness also comes equipped with a six-ringed connection and gear loops with steel D-rings along the back. The rings along the back allow you to create a pivoting axis while suspending in position with free movement. There is alon one D-ring on the chest as well as restraint and positioned D-rings on each side. In addition, there is one steel delta quick link along the waist belt with five positions of adjustments and two gear loops on the back.
The leg and chest straps’ US-made, heavy-duty nylon webbing material is rated for up to 5000 and features plated hardware with anti-corrosion resistance and forged hardware parts.
6. Fusion Climb Pro Backyard Zip Line Kit Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 5.6 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 5/5 Stars
- Pros: Durable Materials, Safe Harness and Lanyard Set, Full DIY Kit
- Cons: Not Ideal for Small Children, Doesn’t Include the Zip Wire
Are you looking to zip across your yard? With our Fusion Climb Pro Backyard Kit, you’re only a few steps away from creating an exciting new space in your backyard. The dual bearing harness, lanyard hanging kit, and pulley make attaching the zip line very simple. Find out what fun, excitement, and thrills that you can bring to your yard. Ziplining delivers the thrill of flying across the great outdoors without the risks of hang gliding or paragliding.
The Fusion Climb Zip Line Kit comes with a harness and lanyard made from durable nylon/polyester tested to 5,000 lbs. The webbing also comes with reinforced stitching for added safety and durability. The harness and lanyard are both very easy to adjust and can perfectly accommodate many different sizes. This Zipline Kit is designed to comfortably fit and protect everyone when they are zipping across the yard!
The Fusion Climb Zip Line Kit is the most accessible zip line kit to install. The packages come entirely assembled with all hardware, easy-to-follow installation instructions, free downloadable videos, and technical support. All Fusion Climb Zip Line Kits are manufactured here in the USA by experienced zipline experts who build custom ZIP tours across the country. Fusion Climb is dedicated to providing you with a fantastic outdoor activity that will last for years to come.
Zip over your yard, over lakes, through the forest, through your neighborhood. After your line is set up, the Fusion Climb Zip Line Kit is all you need to have a fun and safe, good time.
7. PETZL ADJAMA Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: Trad
- Weight: 1.01 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Lightweight, Comfortable, Various Sizes for All Sizes, Mens and Womens Versions
- Cons: Leg Loops Can Be Loose on Smaller People
The Petzl Adjama Harness is a trad climbing, technical mountaineering, and multi-pitch climbing dream come true. Why? The harness has outstanding padded, adjustable leg loops that change based on your size and preferred comfort style. Created to consider the climber’s safety first, the Petzl Adjama is built for ultimate protection and comfort.
At the Camping Feed, we felt that the leg loops and waistband padding are very comfortable even when on the skin for longer climbs. The padding works in combination with a broader waistband and Petzl’s Endoframe Technology to evenly distribute your weight across the harness instead of your back. So, the Endoframe combines with the foam and special webbing to ensure that the wearer experiences ultimate comfort! Also, the leg loops come with double-back buckles that fit varying body types. If you don’t want the straps on your skin, you can adjust the loops and buckles to fit over seasonal clothing.
The Adjama features various gear loops with a high-capacity rating for carrying and lugging multiple types of gear on your climb—a large capacity for transporting equipment. An example is the two rigid gear loops at the front for fast and secure access to tools. Also, the two rear gear loops are adjustable to pack loads of essentials. In addition, a large center back gear loop is perfect for transporting belay stations, special gear, or even your hiking shoes. Lastly, the harness is fitted for the Caritool Evo tool holder.
Overall, the Adjama makes the best harness of 2024 lists for both durability and comfort. As well as, the trustworthy design of the Petzl brand.
8. Weanas Thicken Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 2.3 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Comfortable, Great for Indoor, Easy to Pack, Affordable
- Cons: Not good for people over 180lbs, Gear Loops are Smaller
The Weanas Thicken Climbing Harness is a safe, comfortable, and affordable harness specifically designed for smaller people and women. It has quickly jumped to the top of many climbers’ lists when exploring outdoor or indoor rock climbing and working on the roof, tree service, ziplines, fire rescuing, outer band, caving, higher-level work, etc.
This solid harness is affordable and ideal for beginners and more experienced climbers and rescue workers. One of the best parts of the Weanas harness is that the buckles don’t pinch your thigh or waist. Made of Premium Manganese Steel, the buckles are reliable and adjust quickly.
The material of the climbing harness is both thick and breathable to create a secure fit with even weight distribution. This helps to relieve the pressure points and pains when you are in the harness all day.
The harness is heavier than most climbing harnesses for added durability and safety. Also contributing to the weight is the padded waist. In addition, there are two gear loops and adjustable leg loops. The Weanas is rated to 24kn.
When purchasing and using a harness, please remember that you are responsible for your safety, actions, and decisions. Therefore, it is essential to understand the harness’s capability, limitations, and abilities. It is also essential to start climbing with experienced pros. Look for qualified instruction if you are new to climbing and make sure you know how to use safety equipment like a climbing harness properly.
Overall, this harness is designed and best suited for teens or young adults under 180 lbs.
9. Mammut Men Comfort Knit Fast Adjust Harnesses
- Harness Type: Trad
- Weight: 0.92 lbs
- Mobility: 3/5 Stars
- Durability: 4.5/5 Stars
- Pros: Attachment for Chalk Bag, Easy to Adjust, Split-Webbing Materials
- Cons: Bulky, Center Loop Could Be More Spacious
The Mammut Men Comfort Knit harness is the ideal trad climbing harness for beginners to experts. So what makes this harness unique? First, it has to be the warp-knit webbing structure that brings comfort and breathability with a lighter weight feel. The webbing material also creates a soft edge on the waist belt, ensuring the most comfortable and snug fit. Finally, the material combined with the structure of the harness creates perfect balance with excellent weight distribution.
Another ideal feature of the Mammut trad harness is the fast adjustment buckles and straps on the leg loops so that the climber can adjust it in a second. When you are hanging, you need to know that you can make adjustments at a moment’s notice to ensure safety and comfort for you and your climbing partners. The harness is also equipped with a strong haul loop with 2kN force capacity and four large-head gear loops for ice screws and other items you need on the wall. The tie-in loop guarded by high-quality synthetic plastics helps extend the service life and avoid rough wear. However, the indicator on the harness will show you when the harness needs to be replaced to ensure that you are never climbing in an unsafe harness.
The UIAA Type C certified harness comes with a bag for transport and can easily be folded into the case if you are on the go. It also features a drop-seat function. Easy to move, hot-forged aluminum buckle.
10. EDELRID Jay III Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 0.90 lbs
- Mobility: 5/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Adjustable, Affordable, Lots of Gear Loops, Great Center Loop, Great for Beginners
- Cons: Padding wears over time
The EDELRID Jay III Climbing Harness is great for mountaineering, via Ferratas, and climbing. Whether used for alpine, ice, or sport, the Jay III is the perfect fit. Edelrid promises to produce great climbing products, so they are frequently redesigning their products. This particular harness is from the 2019 season and is made with Bluesign certified materials. With special attention to detail, this harness centers on quality and safety.
The Jay III is made of Dyneema and polyester for a better and longer service of the tie-ins and a lighter weight feel. The material is also very durable and made from the industry’s safest and green-friendly product process. Edelrid only sources materials that are time-tested, trusted, and pass certifications for both safety and sourcing.
The harness features adjustable leg loops and a tie-in point that is easy to center in. These features allow you to quickly center the harness and make an adjustment whenever you need to. It also comes equipped with four high-strength gear loops with two attachments for both ice screw clips and chalk bag loops.
If you are looking for a high-quality harness that is also green and sourced from excellent materials, this is the best harness for you in 2024. The Jay III will check all the boxes you need to get yourself into a superb climbing harness, considering comfort, versatility, ease of use, and price.
11. KAILAS Tabary Ultralight Harness
- Harness Type: Sport
- Weight: 0.43 lbs
- Mobility: 5/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Ultra-Light, Great for Ice & Technical, Very Comfortable
- Cons: Fixed leg loops can be too tight, Needs more gear loops
If you are looking for a great all-around harness that is comfortable, you have come to the right place. The Camping Feed store believes KAILAS Tabary Ultralight is ideal for mountaineering, indoor climbing, and big wall. The adjustable features make it suitable for all-around performance and allow you to change the harness as you see fit to ensure comfort. The very breathable foam on the wider than the average waistband and leg loops also add a layer of comfort.
Kailas’s ergonomic design of leg loops and harnesses strengthen the support of all of your body, especially your core and back. Also, the design perfectly distributes your weight across your entire body to avoid any pressure point sensitivity as you are climbing. The Tabary Ultralight harness is manufactured from a quick-dry nylon webbing with a super-strength thread count to ensure durability. Also, the webbing provides safety, anti-tearing, and outstanding comfort. Allow your body the maximum amount of freedom and comfort when you are climbing.
As for gear loops, there are two across the front of the belt. Thus, you can easily organize and carry your gear with simple access as you are climbing. You can also attach mounting points to both sides of the belt if you are hanging. The attachment points are also ideal for tool racks to click into the belt-like ice piton, carabiners, and more.
Overall, this is a very comfortable harness and ideal for sport climbers looking for technical, lightweight options for their next ice climbing trip.
12. PETZL – CORAX LT Womens Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 0.95 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Easy to Adjust, Convenient Front Loops, Lots of Space for Accessories
- Cons: Needs Padding Around the Buckles, Buckles can be confusing
The Petzl Corax LT Women’s is one of the most affordable harnesses used in any situation. The harness is straightforward to wear and comfortable with the notable Petzl padding and adjustable straps and buckles. The Corax LT harness is specifically designed for women to tighten the waist and adjust the straps at the top of the thigh, just below the hip. Therefore, you can get a comfortable fit on the most significant part of the upper leg that is secure and comfortable. Also, the adjustability ensures that the harness fits most women.
The belt uses soft fabric to pad your pressure points so that even with hours of climbing in the gym, on the ice, or against a crag, you remain comfortable. Four gear loops are placed on the waistband to provide the optimal space for all of your gear. There are also two rigid front gear loops and two rigid rear loops, and a center rear circle for carrying shoes, belay station gear, and other specialty items.
The entire system comes with compatibility with the Caritool Evo for holding and transporting your ice screws. However, the Caritool system is sold separately.
Petzl harnesses are some of the most trusted globally, and the Petzl Corax is no exception. This affordable harness is ideal for most of your climbing needs and is specifically designed to fit and adjust to the contour of a woman’s body.
13. KwikSafety MANDRILL Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 1.5 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Uni-Sex, Good fit and comfortable, Very Affordable, Great for Beginners
- Cons: Not rated for some climbing gyms
The KwikSafety MANDRILL is explicitly designed for the rugged outdoor environments related to free climbing, trees, chalk, ice, sport, rappelling, canyoneering, and more. In addition, the harness is ideal for commercial use like tree trimming, filmmaking, photographers, utility cabling, and hunting. In some cases, specifically, when a responder is looking for something a little less bulky, this is the preferred harness for fire search and EMS rescue.
The Mandrill is designed for a maximum weight capacity of 310 pounds with a tension approval of up to 23kn. It comes equipped with one back loop for ice tools, crampons, ascenders/descenders, clips, ropes, lanyards, belay devices, and more. Also, there are four high-quality, hardened plastic-wrapped, braided cord loops.
With fully adjustable waist & leg straps, the harness is universal in size based on weight capacity and the promise of fitting most small, medium, and large-bodied men and women. The entire harness is built from polyester with webbing and fast-release snap connections. The high-quality construction and reinforced double stitching keep you comfortable and safe climbing. And guarantee that the KwikSafety Mandrill is one of the most durable harnesses on the market.
One of the best features of this harness is the aluminum-magnesium alloy with a heat forged finish on every connector. What does this mean? The connectors are durable, strong, and very lightweight. Also, the screw gate is operable with just one hand and has a keylock nose to defend against snagging. When you purchase from the link above, you also will receive free connectors and a tool lanyard.
14. KAILAS Pnuema Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 0.43 lbs
- Mobility: 3.7/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Fits nicely around the waist, Durable Material, Lightweight Padding
- Cons: Tight Fit Can Make It Harder To Move Freely
The KAILAS Pnuema Climbing Harness offers many features to make your climbing experience comfortable, including an ergonomic system to improve strength and weight distribution, adjustable leg loops, a semi-rigid waist belt, and reflective tape for visibility. The Camping Feed Staff chose this overall flexible design because it performs well in any discipline of climbing.
The Kailas Pnuema Climbing Harness comes with six gear loops, including two front and two rear loops for quick access to tools and two slots for tools like ice picks, etc. There is also a very sturdy center loop with reinforced steel buckles.
This climbing harness is built from a quick-dry nylon webbing to create safe, durable, and solid tools for your next climb. The integrated construction is intended to distribute pressure, and the padding is perfectly placed in all the points where you need it most. Once you are using the harness routinely, you will see that your pressure points take less of a beating even on the most challenging climbs, and you walk away from the climb feeling more comfortable.
Kailas is the only climbing name with a full range of accessories and clothing in Asia. Focused on rock climbing and mountaineering, Kailas is leading the industry in ultra-light harnesses and climbing gear. So, if you aim to be quicker, rise higher, and travel farther, the Safety Climbing Harness is the perfect climbing harness for you.
15. HandAcc Climbing belts
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 2.23 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Comfortable, Secure, and Easy to hang in
- Cons: Stitching is loose, Padding is thin
The HandAcc Climbing Harness is known for being a well-regarded safety harness. It is made from quick-drying, high-strength nylon with high-tension threads for a safer, comfortable, and more sturdy harness. In addition, the connecting rings are fabricated with carbon steel D-Rings. Why? To ensure that you get the most durable and safe connections when you are climbing.
The HandAcc has a thick frame construction that delivers outstanding weight distribution and optimal comfort. Also, for comfort, there is a broader waist belt on the back, and both the waist belt and the leg loops are doubled strapped. In addition, the black buckles allow easy and fast adjustments to the waist and leg belts. With these and other unique features, this harness is designed for comfort and convenience.
The climbing harness comes equipped with two gear hooks and two sturdy D-rings on the sides. You can secure almost any gear that you can imagine to the belt, and always attach carabiners to hold ropes, etc. At the Camping Feed, we felt like the gear hooks were convenient for chalk bags and durable in most situations. While climbing, the gear hanging from the harness did not impede the climb.
The harness is CE-certified to a 660-pound weight limit and a 24kN tension strength. It is essential to understand that the comfort and durability of the HandAcc make it a larger harness. It is not ideal for smaller people or young children. You mostly see these harnesses used in demolition, construction, climbing, emergency rescue, and other crafts working in heights.
16. Black Diamond BOD Harness
- Harness Type: All-Around
- Weight: 0.80 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Lightweight, Easily packable, Affordable
- Cons: Uncomfortable waist strap, Leg straps need more adjustment options
The Black Diamond Bod is a time-tested design from a reputable brand. It also bodes many features that make it highly comfortable. It all starts with the fleece-padded waist belt with a traditional buckle. This makes the harness comfortable and secure on your body whether you are indoor climbing, mountaineering, or on a crag. Yes, the fleece is water-resistant.
Weighing less than one pound, the harness’s comfortable, convenient, and light design creates unrestricted motion for your body on the most challenging climbs. Just think, you don’t want a harness weighing you down if you are thousands of feet up on the mountain. With a lightweight, durable harness like the Black Diamond Bod, you are guaranteed the versatility needed for all-around climbers. It is truly a combination of the best materials with functional, efficient design.
The Bod has four reinforced gear loops for all of your hardware, tools, and climbing accessories. It also has a supportive back strap to add additional support and comfort while climbing. The quick-release leg loops are made from durable and waterproof nylon webbing. Overall, the climbing harness is 17 kN-rated on belay and haul loops.
The Black Diamond Bod is a multipurpose harness designed to be comfortable and affordable for the median to professional level climbers. It’s an excellent choice for climbers trying to get a comfortable, reliable harness or for experienced climbers looking for a suitable backup. Its lightweight, low-profile design is also a favorite among many of our staff members at Camping Feed.
17. Fusion Climb Centaur Padded Half Body Harness
- Harness Type: Trad
- Weight: 1.5 lbs
- Mobility: 3.5/5 Stars
- Durability: 5/5 Stars
- Pros: Affordable, Great for Newer Climbers, Very Durable
- Cons: No Padding In Waistline or Legs, Uncomfortable for Hanging and Walking
It’s not easy to find a padded and lightweight harness, much less something that is comfortable, affordable, and appealing at the same time. But this was a critical part of Fusion Climb’s design philosophy for the Centaur Half Body Harness. The result is a safe harness designed to make you look to feel comfortable on some of the best rock faces around!
The Fusion Climb Centaur Half Body Harness is the perfect multi-use and rental harness because it is easy to adjust, very strong, and lightweight. Much like the centaurs of old Greek mythology, the harness is made for the wild and can’t be tamed. The Centaur Half Body is the ideal harness for ropes courses, climbing gyms, and some outdoor climbing. Specifically, climbing guides like the three fast pass buckles and outer body adjustments for easy adjustments on a student. Also, the strengthened tie-in point provides extra durability, and an elastic seat strap holds the leg loops from shifting. Made from 5000lb tested webbing, the entire climbing harness system weighs in at under 3 lbs.
Worn confidently by the Camping Feed climbing community, this harness is comfortable, safe, and affordable. This harness was designed for rappelling, top-rope, or lead climbing, and instructors’ ease of use, quick buckles, and adjustable rope tie-in points. Climbing fads and equipment will come and go, but the Fusion Climb Centaur Half Body Harness will survive regardless of what tools arrive on the market. So, if you fit the description of this harness make sure you get one today!
18. PETZL Aquila Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: Alpine and Trad
- Weight: 0.71 lbs
- Mobility: 5/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Comfortable and Lightweight, Low Profile, Lots of Adjustable Straps
- Cons: Not for Beginner Climbers, Expensive, Auto-Locking Easily Become Loose
The Petzl brand created another quality, high-end harness in the AQUILA. A necessity for climbers of all sizes, the general feel of this harness is outstanding with an outstanding weight-to-comfort proportion! The harness is designed for trad climbing, sport climbing, and bouldering. The waistbelt is wide and comfortable and ideal for all body types. A slim and lightweight design gives you an excellent range of movement and continues to be comfortable while hanging.
One of the more recognizable features of this harness is the various adjustable leg loops combined with Fuseframe Technology construction. It allows a climber to adjust and tweak the harness and find maximum comfort. Also, you can make the Aquila very comfortable and ideal to fit over seasonal clothing on more extended winter or summer climbs.
In addition, the DoubleBack HD tightening buckles allow you to make quick adjustments to the waistbelt and leg loops while hanging. In addition, reinforced tie-ins help produce constant resistance to rope friction. Ultimately, the lightweight, slim design of this climbing harness creates comfort and security.
Outfitted with four gear loops along the waistband, the Aquila allows you to organize all of your equipment without restricting your movement and climbing capabilities. This harness is ideal for rock, gym, and multi-pitch production climbing.
Like all other equipment, climbing harnesses have limitations. Therefore, it’s essential to be aware of your harness’ characteristics so you can use it properly and maximize its performance. The Petzl Aquila is a more expensive option and is not for beginner climbers. However, the low profile and various adjustment straps make this a versatile choice for experienced climbers looking for a sport harness with added comfort features.
19. SOB Half Body Climbing Harness
- Harness Type: All – Around
- Weight: Not Listed
- Mobility: 3/5 Stars
- Durability: 3/5 Stars
- Pros: Great all around use, Reliable and Safe, Breathable
- Cons: Padding wears quickly, Stitching Isn’t Durable, For Smaller people under 220 lbs
The SOB Half Body Harness is both safe and reliable for your all-around climbing needs. It is certified at the maximum breaking strength of 23kN. This harness is very similar to the Petzl Sequoia 2014 harness, with the most significant difference being no integration with the Petzl Caritool. The waistbelt is wide and thickened with a cushion while being breathable and reducing sweat absorption. The harness is approved for a maximum weight capacity of 220 lbs.
At a portion of the cost of the more prominent brands, this climbing harness is of excellent quality with stitching to the long ends. The SOB Half Body is comfortable and has adjustable straps to fit most body sizes. Equip with safety buckles, belts, and four gear loops for tools along the waistband and various other loops along the front and back of the harness.
The harness is made from high-strength, webbed polyester material that is both durable and lightweight. Also, the aluminum alloy buckle with fixing capabilities has a multi-point reinforced structure to distribute pressure across the entire harness. The ideal use for this harness ranges from emergency responders to rock climbing, SRT, construction, working from heights, tree climbing, rappelling, etc.
With this harness, you can comfortably ascend multiple pitches of steep terrain or go big on the cragging circuit—all without having to change harnesses. So whether you’re clipping bolts, climbing runout routes, or launching pads at your local bouldering spot, this full-featured main harness will help you stay safe and comfortable.
20. Singing Rock Sit Work
- Harness Type: Sport
- Weight: 1 lbs
- Mobility: 4/5 Stars
- Durability: 4/5 Stars
- Pros: Comfy Seat, Great For Speed Climbing, Easy to Adjust
- Cons: Not A lot Of Padding
The Singing Rock Sit Harness is perfect for work positioning and vertical activities without any risk of fall. It has two attachment points and a slim design, which makes it easy to use and carry. Made from lightweight yet durable materials, this harness provides an unparalleled level of comfort and agility. The durable nylon webbing easily fits other layers and handles heavy use while hanging, rappelling, or belaying.
The Sit Work harness is one of the most comfortable and lightweight work positioning harnesses developed with the safety and quality of Singing Rock products in mind. Fully adjustable leg loops, padded waist belt, and two-drop-seat option make this harness an excellent choice. In addition, the easy lock buckle allows for quick adjustments without taking your eyes off your goal. Combining the buckles with the new “pan” strap above the gear loops provides the harnesses faster and more efficiently than many of the options on the market.
With its variety of available sizes, this harness can accommodate all kinds of different body types. Additionally, this harness comes in three versions: Easy Lock buckle (S), Speed buckle (E), and NFPA (T). This harness is designed for comfort, durability, and ease of use with customization and adjustment points.
The Singing Rock Sit Work harness design provides a versatile, all-purpose harness for easy, comfortable use at any angle. The harness can be used anywhere from the gym to the crag and the mountains. It’s a great performing harness, designed with comfort and durability in mind.
Climbing Harness Buying Guide
- Climbing Harness Types
- Harness Safety
- Weight
- Materials and Durability
- Comfort
- Loops
- Men’s Harnesses vs Women’s Harnesses
- Accessories
Climbing Harness Types
A climbing harness is essential climbing gear for beginners and professionals who both want to climb safely. Hence, the best climbing harness for this year, equipped with easy-to-use buckles, lightweight design, and tested by volunteers. Harnesses are intended to accommodate climbers in various climbing applications. Although any harness designed by a well-known company is made to keep you secure, a thoroughly picked harness will allow much more than basic safety.
It’s essential to choose a harness intended for the variety of climbing you intend to do. A good harness is necessary whether you’re scaling big walls, ice climbing, alpine climbing, or skiing mountaineering. But with so many on the market, it’s hard to tell which ones are worth purchasing.
For example, you must understand that padded harnesses are excellent for supporting route developers, but they are too bulky and heavy for speed or sport climbing. Likewise, if you plan on climbing tiny alpine routes, you may need a harness with leg loops that are trimmed down to size. The lighter weight will be worth it.
Each harness is designed to meet specific climbing needs, such as different activities (sport, trad, aid, big wall), body shapes and sizes (diverse women’s models), and other styles. As a result, the correct harness will be designed to fit the type of climbs that you want to do.
Harness Safety
First, ask yourself an important question, should you get a safety-rated harness? Yes, if you plan to do any roped climbing on crags or ice. No, if you are doing alpine climbing, bouldering, or sports climbing. Most people will be fine with one of the top three, which are all pretty good quality for the price. You want something that you can keep adjusted snugly even when wearing thick/multiple layers of clothing.
Regardless of the rating, harnesses may have advantages over others, like the finish and the padding.
However, as both of these wear, the safety of your harness will degrade. The more wear it has, the more likely it will slip on smoother rock types such as sandstone or polished granite. There is no hard and fast rule for when this happens. This is more of an area of comfort than safety. If the harness is causing more discomfort than comfort, you can be sacrificing your safety and should look at getting a new one that is better suited to your body shape and following UIAA standards.
The harness is there to hold you when hanging on an overhang, falling from a height, or falling from a climb. The main thing your harness needs to do is to stop your fall from being lethal. Your harness needs to be adjustable and comfortable. A good harness should have different adjusters and buckles so that it fits well and doesn’t slip while lowering or climbing.
Weight
Weight is an essential factor for climbers because it helps determine the quality of performance, safety, and ability to accessorize. By strapping less weight to your body, you can move faster, jump higher, and climb longer without suffering fatigue. Lightweight harnesses range in weight from 1.5 ounces to 7 ounces. Of course, the lighter you go, the better your performance will be, but only to a certain extent, you may be sacrificing some comfort and ability to carry accessories. A weight distribution harness is a type of safety harness for climbing designed to hold or distribute most of its user’s weight to their hips and away from the waist. These can range in weight from one pound in size and support up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg) in strength. A heavy-duty climbing harness that will carry heavy loads typically weighs three pounds and supports 2,000 pounds (907 kg) or more.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, comfort and durability are linked to a harness’s weight. Sometimes the heavier weight climbing harness will have more padding and heavier straps to add comfort. You will sacrifice some of the performance and speed, but you might consider a more secure and padded harness, especially for beginners.
Materials and Durability
Harnesses have been made from a variety of materials since their “invention” in the mid-to-late 1800s. In the last several decades, however, the foam has dominated the market. These days, the best harnesses are made using lightweight yet durable fabrics designed to stretch slightly rather than break, which allows the harness to be put on and taken off over bulky clothing or multiple layers of insulation.
Foam-based harnesses are slightly heavier and cheaper to manufacture than split webbing harnesses, but they have several shortcomings that have led many climbers to look for a change.
Split webbing harnesses offer several benefits over foam and webbing harnesses. They’re lighter, more comfortable, and can be cut into custom sizes. The array of adjustable sizing options available on today’s split webbing harnesses allow them to fit climbers as snugly as possible, thereby reducing the chances of the harness slipping during a climb. Lightweight and breathable, these harnesses provide comfort without sacrificing safety or performance.
Climbers who choose a split webbing harness over a foam harness cite improved comfort as the main benefit of switching from the older style. One possible disadvantage is that these costly harnesses may be too expensive for many climbers.
The material of the climbing harness is also directly related to durability. This is another reason a lot of climbers prefer split webbing harnesses. The split webbing is more durable, secure, and lasts longer than the foam harnesses. Consider foam harnesses if you are looking for a cheaper climbing harness or a beginner sampling various options.
Comfort
Comfort is crucial in multi-pitch environments where the technical difficulty is sporadic. If your harness is uncomfortable, you won’t be performing at your best either. In addition, there is a surprising amount of difference in the level of comfort one harness can offer compared to another. Therefore, it is essential to choose a harness that provides the specific level of comfort you require for your circumstances. For instance, if you are a beginner climber and spend lots of time hanging, you might want to look at models with padding on the waist belt, leg loops, or both. On the other hand, if you spend most of your time high above the ground, it might be advantageous to choose a harness that does not have padding on leg loops.
Depending on the individual, the type of harness they use and what climbing application they will be using it for can greatly affect the comfort of a harness. Remember, the comfort of use is often based not just on the harness itself but on the entire system of all the straps of accessory gear that are attached to or that hang from it. For example, when climbing in cold environments, make sure to pack your harness with a pair of underwear or tights underneath, as warmth is essential for insulation against frigid conditions.
Comfort will vary by manufacturer and style of harness, so it’s best to try out several before purchasing the best one for you.
Loops
An adjustable harness is one of the essential items in your climbing rig, and for a good reason. Most harnesses will have some flexible system, but this feature often takes the form of either fixed leg loops (that are part of the waist belt) or stirrups that hang down from the harness. Adjustable leg loops tend to be helpful when seeking to tailor the fit of a harness specifically to your build. Still, they may not hold up under heavy loads (say, rappelling after a long day of climbing)—on the contrary, having fixed buckles or hooks where you can easily adjust leg loops while wearing gloves.
Bottom line, a harness with adjustable leg loops makes it easier to find a comfortable fit for different people, while smaller gear loops that rest close to the body are more streamlined and better for routes where every ounce counts.
A beginner climber would do well with a version of a classic harness with streamlined leg loops and lightweight. A more intermediate climber might need a larger gear loop for all their tools. And a more advanced climber might be looking for something with adjustable leg loops to adjust to their changing body shape.
Men’s Harnesses vs. Women’s Harnesses
Harnesses come in unisex and men’s or women’s models. Unisex harnesses are intended for either gender, while other harnesses are meant for a specific gender. Unfortunately, many climbing harness styles on the market are not labeled as designed for men or women.
While most climbing harnesses are unisex and can be used by both men and women, some specific styles may offer greater comfort or performance for one gender more than the other. For instance, some harnesses designed for men may be more comfortable or perform better on broader set hips or shoulders, whereas women’s models may better fit the hips and bust line. In addition, the women’s harnesses often have a shorter rise between the leg loops and waist loops and other minor variations.
Another consideration in a climbing harness designed based on gender is weight capacity. For example, many women’s styles have a lower weight capacity than the men’s version. Men’s harnesses have been designed with a long rise between the waist and leg loops to distribute weight better. This can present concerns for women with shorter torso lengths. A women’s harness is designed to fit the shape of the female body more comfortably, with minimal bunching in the waist area. When purchasing a new harness, be sure to reference the manufacturer’s sizing chart so that you will receive the best fit for your body type. Even though the styles look the same or utilize similar material, make sure to check the weight capacity before purchasing a climbing harness.
Accessories
Each harness will offer different features, styles, and accessories depending on the intended use for the specific device. When choosing a harness, there are several features to be aware of. These include adjustable leg loops, ice clipper slots, gear loops, belay loops, tie-in points, leg loop materials, fabric type/thickness, and several other attributes that will lead to the best possible fit.
Layering for climbing can be as varied as the weather. Some harnesses are great for hot weather and light layers but may lack ice clipper slots or gear loops. Other harnesses may fit like a glove with heavy layers but cannot carry many protection and ice clippers.
