Rock Climbing Harness

A rock climbing harness is an essential piece of equipment in the sport of rock climbing. It is the device that holds the climber securely around the hips and attaches the climber to the climbing rope. A rock climbing harness should be selected for safety and comfort. It can be purchased as a single unit or made yourself with webbing and a locking carabiner.

  1. Features

    • A rock climbing harness is essentially a pair of loops for the legs and a waist belt. These are all connected so that the rock climber can sit down in it while climbing. Most also have a belay loop for the rock climbing harness can be attached to a climbing rope. Other features can include loops for hanging gear, adjustable leg straps and extra padding.

    Types

    • There are different types of rock climbing harnesses for different types of climbing. A sports climbing harness is very basic. It uses simple webbing and is designed to be lightweight and flexible. A mountaineering harness tends to be full body and more secure. A big wall harness has a lot of padding and gear loops. This is the strongest and most cumbersome type of rock climbing harness. It is very important to select the right type of rock climbing harness for the type of climbing you will be doing.

    Size

    • It is essential that a rock climbing harness be the right size for the climber. It should fit snugly around the upper thighs and waist without being constricting. If it is too tight, it can cut into the legs or pinch the groin while climbing. Larger climbers require wider leg loops and increased padding. If it is too loose, it could slip off with disastrous results. Climbers should try on and test any rock climbing harness they are considering buying or using.

    Making Your Own Harness

    • A simple sit string harness can be made with a strip of climbing webbing. Tie two leg loops using overhand knots, slightly larger than the circumference of your thighs. Leave a link of 6 inches of webbing between the loops. Step one leg into each leg loop and bring it up to your waist. Tighten the loops around your legs until they are snug. Pull the rest of the webbing to the back of your legs then wrap them around the outside of your legs and under each of the leg loops. Cross the excess webbing in an "X" in front of your body then around your back. Tie the two ends of webbing together with a water knot or a square knot backed up by an overhand knot. Clip the water knot together with the "X" of webbing across your abdomen with a locking carabiner.

    Warning

    • You must take great care when making or buying a rock climbing harness. Your life depends on it. Improper construction or use of a rock climbing harness can kill or severely injure you. Always consult an experienced professional when making decisions regarding a rock climbing harness.