Match the harness type to your climbing style
- Sport or indoor climbing harnesses tend to be stripped down for fast travel and feature minimal gear loops.
- Trad climbing harnesses include more gear loops since climbers place their own protection. Comfort and padding are key, as you may spend hours on a route or hanging in your harness.
- Mountaineering harnesses are designed for long approaches and all-season versatility.
Key features:
- Adjustable leg loops: Fit different body types and clothing layers.
- Gear loops: Range from two to five loops to rack your gear.
- Waistbelt padding: Thicker padding or broader surface area helps distributes pressure, adding comfort.
Women-specific harnesses
Many climbing harnesses are available in unisex models, but some are designed to better fit a women's body. Pick a women-specific harness if it better matches your body type.These harnesses typically feature a higher rise, a larger leg-to-waist ratio and a shaped waistbelt.
Read full article: How to Choose Climbing Harnesses
