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How to buy a climbing harness

William Sassani's photo
Denver Outdoor Gear Examiner

A climber tied into a harness while climbing the 1st Flatiron.

When used correctly according to the manufacturers’ directions, a climbing harness can keep a climber from falling all the way to the ground. Modern climbing harnesses are made of nylon, and often have a buckle that can be double-backed to increase safety. Other harnesses do not require the user to double-back the buckle. Most harnesses are padded for comfort, have gear loops for carrying equipment while climbing, and tie-in points for tying onto a rope.

Some things to think about when buying a harness include:

  • Ask a salesperson as to how to properly put on a harness. Pay particular attention to safety features, such as whether the buckle must be double-backed.
  • Try the harness on for fit and comfort. Some stores may have a rope hanging from the ceiling that climbers can use to hang from and get a better idea as to how the harness fits.

For more information about climbing harnesses, check out these local gear stores in the Denver area:

REI
Neptune Mountaineering
The Bent Gate
 

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, Denver Outdoor Gear Examiner

Bill Sassani enjoys getting outside to play and getting his gear dirty! He has worked in the field of outdoor education for over 13 years, working for a variety of organizations and populations.

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