Climbing harness

A climbing harness is a piece of equipment used in traditional 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.