When it comes to picking out a climbing harness, it can feel a little overwhelming. There are dozens of options, each claiming to be the most comfortable, lightweight, or “next-level performance” choice. But let’s be real…most harnesses do the same job, and at the end of the day, the best one is the one that fits your body and your style.
We like to say that picking a harness is 90% about what color goes best with your shoes, but that last 10%? That’s where the real nuance lives. Here’s what to look for when choosing your next harness.
One of the biggest differences between harnesses is the number of buckles. Every harness has at least one on the waist, but some (like the Mammut 4-Slide) feature two, which helps create a more precise fit and allows for greater adjustability across a range of sizes.
Then there’s the classic debate: to have adjustable leg loops or not. Some climbers love the control of fine-tuning the fit; others prefer fixed leg loops for simplicity and a cleaner feel. It’s a personal preference that’s about as divisive as socks in climbing shoes.
Here’s one of the most important (and often overlooked) parts of choosing a harness: sit in it.
Each harness has unique padding, surface area coverage, and weight distribution. Some prioritize comfort with plush padding, while others are built light for high-performance climbing. If you’re spending long sessions hanging on the rope, comfort should be your top priority.
Elite sport climbers or those pushing grades outside may prefer lighter harnesses that move effortlessly with the body. Whichever you choose, test how it feels when fully weighted—because that’s where comfort really counts.
Gear loops might not seem like a big deal until you start climbing with a rack full of cams.
For indoor sessions, 2–4 gear loops are plenty to hold the essentials like a belay device and a belay card. But trad climbers? They need space. Look for harnesses with ample gear loops to keep every piece organized and accessible mid-route. There’s no worse feeling than realizing you left the gear you need on the ground because you ran out of space.
Finding the perfect harness is part art, part science, and part style. Go with what feels good, fits well, and makes you excited to climb.
Next time you’re in the gym, check out the harness wall in our gear shop and chat with one of our team members. They’re true gear enthusiasts and love helping climbers find the right fit, whether it’s your first harness or your fifth.