Harnesses?

[rydra_wong]

Now I've finally learned how to tie in with a rethreaded figure-of-eight, belay, etc., it has occurred to me that at some point I may need to buy a harness.

So, what should I know, people? What are the questions to consider? What should I take into account (other than "it should fit me and be appropriate for a lot of indoor top-roping")? Advise me!

Comments

[rydra_wong]

Here there's one where you put it on and they hoist you up in the air, so you can judge how comfortable they are.

I haven't seen a gear shop with the facilities for that in the UK, but will keep my eyes out. Thanks for the advice!

[juliet]

The shop in the Castle does that. When I bought mine I spent quite a while hanging from it (& the other contenders) before deciding, & it was definitely a Good Thing.

I actually wound up getting a more gear-loop-ish harness than I expected (think it is one designed for ice climbing & so forth) because it was so damn comfy. The contrast between that & the hire harness was quite impressive.

I can't use mine at the moment (too big) or for the next couple-few months (I don't roped-climb often anyway, & can't imagine I'm going to make it anywhere other than the Arch at the outside for a while after March!), so if you'd like to have a borrow & try it out you'd be welcome to.

[rydra_wong]

Oh, cool. I'm now registered at the Castle (having done the roped climbing induction there), so I'll definitely check the shop.