For anyone looking to make their first climbing harness purchase, it can be a slightly daunting task. With so many brands and different pricing points, it’s not easy to narrow down your choices. Should you purchase one of the best climbing harness brands, or go with a relative unknown?
The main concern of not going for a big brand is usually safety, to put your mind at ease all harnesses will have passed a rigorous testing process. Although all will be safe not all harnesses are created equal, they will wear at a different rate, have a different fit and have different features. Most expensive does not always equal best, but a trusted brand goes a long way to guaranteeing quality.
Comfort is key and very individual, with different manufacturers fitting in different ways, so it’s important to try out a few brands and models in store or even better on a climb. And remember that some stores won’t take returns on climbing harnesses – just what you need extra pressure to make the right decision!
Best climbing harness brands
There are a handful of brands that are consistently popular with climbers and deliver top quality harnesses time after time. Try out some of their products and you’re bound to find the right harness for you. Here are what we consider to be the best climbing harness brands:
Petzl
Driven by three main concerns – safety, comfort and functionality – Petzl has become a firm favourite with climbers. The Sama and Selena male and female harness come with elasticated leg loops, or the Adjama and Luna (again male and female) have adjustable legs. The Hirundos is an ultra-light harness for high-end climbers but beginners may prefer the more basic Gym. For more info visit: www.petzl.com
Wild country
Striking and original harness designs that come with practical features, the Wild Country range is stylish and light, designed with new load spread technology (LST). There’s a big selection to choose from, all with Wild Country’s innovative design and classic colour scheme. The Summit and Eclipse are popular harnesses, and the Spire and Flare women’s ranges are some of the best around. For more info visit: www.wildcountry.com
C.A.M.P
With well over 100 years of harness making behind them, it’s safe to say that C.A.M.P know a thing or two about the industry. The company’s current range is very impressive, including the Cassin Warden, Laser and Laser CR, as well as the Air, Stratos and Jasper. For more info visit: www.camp-usa.com
Black Diamond
A big name in climbing, Black Diamond deliver high quality, functional and affordable harnesses. These include the Chaos and Ozone, as well as women’s harnesses like the Ethos and Aura. For more info visit: www.blackdiamondequipment.com
Arc’Teryx
The unusual name comes from the Archaeopteryx Lithografica, the first reptile to develop feathers for flight and free itself from the constraints of the horizontal world. Specialising in climbing and Alpine gear, their harnesses are classically designed and high quality. The B-360A men’s and R-300 men’s are very highly rated. For more info visit: www.arcteryx.com
Mammut
One of the biggest suppliers of outdoor products and with a reputation for good quality and functional products, Swiss company Mammut’s harnesses are no different. Try the Zephira or Togir models for good quality and affordable harnesses. For more info visit: www.mammut.ch
You can learn more about the best climbing harness brands at their individual sites. Or visit e-outdoor, who stock four of the six mentioned above,they currently have up to 40% off so you could nab yourself a great deal.
