Harnesses

Different alpine routes require different harnesses. Routes that are mostly glaciated don’t require heavily padded harnesses that are perfect for steep ice or rock routes. Study the climb you’re about to attempt and be sure to bring the right harness.

Camp Alpine Flash $90

The Alpine Flash is another amazing harness from Camp designed for technical alpine climbs. It weighs 300 grams thanks to its slick design that reduces the number of stitch point. It packs small, gives a secure fit, has five gear loops and four slots for ice clippers. The padding on the waist and legs gives plenty of comfort when in uncomfortable alpine positions. One of our favourite alpine harnesses of 2019.

Arc’teryx AR 395A $200

The AR 395A is one of the best alpine climbing tools you can own. It’s light, simple and the construction is f lawless. The adjustable leg loops tighten and loosen with ease. At only 395 grams, it’s one of the strongest light harnesses you’ll find. It has burly gear loops and four ice clipper slots. It’s very breathable which helps on long summer alpine rock routes where you’re cooking in the sun during the day.

Petzl Altitude $95

The Altitude is one of our top choices for non-technical mountaineering route. It’s very light, comfortable for the style and gives you the right amount of protection in environments where you’re going fast over mellow terrain. The gear loops are minimal, but you’re not using this harness on a route that requires much gear. The icescrew leg mount is one of the best features. It packs small, is simple to use and is one of the best harnesses in its category.

Black Diamond

Technician $100

The Technician is an absolute workhorse that is great for alpine, sport and ice climbing. It can take a beating from sharp rock and freezing temperature without showing any wear. The gear loops are short but off a lot of space. The buckle is slick and easy to secure. The four points to add ice screw clippers are in perfect spots. Recommended for climbers looking for a go-anywhere harness for summer road trips to the crag and alpine.

Mammut

Togir 3 Slide Women’s $100

The new Togir 3 Slide isn’t the lightest at 420 grams on this list, but it is likely the most comfortable. It offers great freedom of movement, has easy-to-use self-locking buckles on the waist and legs, four gear sloops and four ice clipper slots. It has a long-lasting tie-in protector and strong haul loop. This is an amazing all-round harness that works great for alpine rock and ice climbs.—Gripped