A climbing harness is a piece of equipment used in certain types of climbing. It is for securing a human to a piece of rope. In its simplest form it is just a length of rope or a tape sling tied round the waist and attached to the climbing rope, usually by means of a carabiner. More sophisticated harnesses exist in many different patterns, designed to give greater comfort and security, and to provide more options for carrying equipment.
Most harnesses are worn round the waist or the top of the legs. Some climbers prefer to use a chest harness, particularly when they are leading a climb.
A waist harness combined with a chest harness is preferred when climbing with a heavy backpack. This combination makes it possible to attach the rope higher up on the body to prevent the body from slamming backward in case of a fall.
See also
