The Best Climbing Harnesses of 2024

A great choice for any climber, the Black Diamond Solution Guide harness comes with extra padding in the waistband, ranking it high as a comfortable harness. Adjustability and versatility may be lacking in comparison to others, but a total of five gear loops (four rigid and one flexible) make it easy to attach gear during traditional and multi-pitch climbs. Climbers champion the Solution Guide for its durability and don’t worry about easy wear and tear, even when rubbing on rough rock faces. However, some aren’t fans of the fixed leg loops, which add to the bulk of this climbing harness.

Lightweight and adjustable, the Black Diamond Momentum is a low-profile pick among climbing harnesses. Two thin bands of webbing, with foam in between, make up the dual-core waistband. But due to this foam, it doesn’t provide the best ventilation, and this harness may be less comfortable than others. Suggested for as a traditional or sport climbing harness, the Momentum comes with a lot of extra accessories, including the ATC-XP rappel/belay device, a Rocklock Screwgate locking carabiner, Mojo chalk bag, and BD White Gold chalk. This is a great basic, all-in-one buy for those looking to get into climbing.

The Edelrid Sendero climbing harness is a good pick for its features, rather than for how comfortable it is. The Sendero waist belt has a soft-frame construction with 3D mesh padding, adjustable legs, five gear loops, and two ice-clipper slots. Great for sport, lightweight alpine, and traditional climbing, this climbing harness is super versatile for adventures of all kinds, and would be a great addition if you love to travel to different climbing destinations. While there are tons of features included in this harness, it isn’t the most comfortable; it may not be a great pick for long days of belaying. But it’s still a great pick for the alpine enthusiast.

A notable safety feature that we like on this harness is the tie-in point with Dyneema wear indicator, which reveals internal red threads in case of increased abrasion.

Being one of the best women’s climbing harnesses on the market, the Edelrid Jayne III features an easy-to-center tie-in point, adjustable leg loops, and movable padding at the hips for optimal adjustability on every body type. Slide-block buckles ensure a secure fit for your best climbs, and the Jayne III is useful in a variety of conditions. Climbers love the Jayne III because the leg loops are easily adjusted and give the user full flexibility without compromising the fit—and because the leg-loop base is longer than others; it sits above the hip bones, so it isn’t pressing into the hip, causing discomfort. One complaint from users, which doesn’t deter from high ratings, is that this harness for women does get twisted easily, but this seems like a small issue.

For families who climb together, the Petzl Macchu is a great pick for kids. Supporting children up to 88 pounds, the Petzl Macchu is adjustable to account for growth and is great for all casual and sport climbing. Families love the weight distribution, easily found using the dual double-backed buckles on the waist belt. The only complaints about this harness are that it may not be the most comfortable hanging for long periods of time (standing comfortability is a non-issue) and that it’s quite heavy. Despite this, it’s a wonderful choice for encouraging little adventurers to explore a new hobby.

Please note that this is a sit-in harness, which should be used with a body-shoulder strap for maximum safety, especially with beginners.

If you’re a multi-pitch climber who likes to be comfortably supported while hanging off the side of a cliff, then we recommend the Petzl Adjama Harness. With its ENDOFRAME Technology and lightweight, breathable web, this harness allows for less pressure and more comfort. It includes five gear loops—two in the front for clipping, two in the back for gear, and one in the back for shoes and belaying. It's also got adjustable leg loops and a wide waistband that allows for a full range of motion and greater airflow.

Indoor and crag climbers alike will appreciate the Petzl Sama, a sport-climbing harness that provides long-lasting comfort. With the ENDOFRAME technology, this lightweight, soft, and breathable harness reduces pressure in the waist and legs—allowing for more freedom of movement. The ergonomic waist belt is highly supportive and the five gear loops make it easy to clip in and out, bring your gear, and belay.