How to tie a swiss seat rappel harness

A swiss seat rappel harness is a fairly basic harness made of rope. It is a good choice when you need a harness done quickly. If tied correctly it can hold climbers of all sizes.

Things You'll Need

  • Rope (rated to hold at least twice your body weight, approximately 7-10' in length, depending body size)
  • Caribiner capable of supporting your weight, and with a lockable gate
  • Helmet, other optional protective gear
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Instructions

  1. How to Tie a Swiss Seat Rappel Harness

    • 1

      Fold the rope in half in order to find the middle. Place the middle section of the rope along the center of your lower back, so that you are holding an equal amount of rope in each hand.

    • 2

      Wrap the two halves around your waist, pulling one side under the other in order to create a half hitch.

    • 3

      Repeat Step 2. The rope should now be wrapped around itself twice.

    • 4

      Drop both ends of the rope so that they are dangling in front of you.

    • 5

      Pull both ends of the rope up behind you, between your legs up and through the rope wrapped around your waist. Place the ends over your shoulder, so that they are dangling around your chest, one on either side.

    • 6

      Squat several times while pulling down on the ends of the rope to tighten the harness.

    • 7

      Drop both of the free ends behind your back, passing it behind the rope running across your buttocks. Pull the ends towards the front of you, along your hips.

    • 8

      Tie the two ends together, using a square knot. It should be off center, meaning that if you are right-handed it should be on your left hip.

    • 9

      Make a keeper knot with each end of the rope, using a half hitch. Allow the half hitch to pass through both belts of rope.