Your climbing harness is a vital piece of gear that plays a key role in keeping you alive. As such, it’s essential to take good care of it and perform regular checks to ensure that it’s still safe for climbing. Harness safety is crucial for both new climbers and seasoned veterans alike, as tragically illustrated by the case of legendary climber Todd Skinner. In 2006, Skinner passed away due to the failure of a worn belay loop on his harness—a sobering reminder that even the most experienced climbers are not immune to the risks of neglected gear.
1. Age: Is Your Harness Past Its Prime?
All climbing harnesses have a lifespan, and it’s important to remember that age can cause damage which may not be obvious at a glance. So, while your 12-year-old harness may LOOK fine and dandy, there’s a good chance its structural integrity is compromised.
Most manufacturers recommend retiring a harness after 5 to 10 years, even with minimal use; if you’re a regular sender using your harness every week, consider retiring it earlier. And, of course, if you see any damage stop using the harness immediately.
Finding Your Harness’ Lifespan:
The manufacturer’s label on your harness (usually found on the inside of the waistbelt or leg loop) provides key details, including the date of manufacture and recommended lifespan. If you’re unsure, you can consult the manufacturers’ website for guidance.
2. Webbing: The Backbone of Your Harness
Webbing is the main structural component of your harness and should be inspected regularly for:
- Fraying or cuts: Look for worn or cut edges, especially in high-stress areas.
- Abrasion: Areas that look fuzzy or overly smooth may have been weakened.
- Discolouration: UV exposure or chemical damage can cause fading and compromise your harness’ strength.
3. Tie-In Points: High-Stress Zones
Tie-in points are the loops that you thread your rope through when tying in to climb; they endure a fair amount of friction which makes them prone to wear and tear. Be on the lookout for:
- Excessive wear: Check for any fuzziness, fraying or overly smooth areas.
- Core exposure: If the inner core is visible, the harness must be retired immediately.
Wear Indicators
Many modern harnesses – including those from Mammut, Ocún and Edelrid – feature built-in wear indicators in the tie-in-points; these usually take the form of brightly coloured thread that becomes exposed after a certain amount of wear, thus indicating that it’s time for the harness to be retired.
4. Buckles: Secure and Functional
Buckles keep your harness together and allow you to achieve a snug, safe fit. Inspect them for:
- Functionality: Ensure they fasten securely, adjust smoothly and don’t work themselves loose as you move.
- Damage: Look for any bent, cracked, deformed, corroded or rusted metal components
5. Stitching: The Glue That Holds It All Together
All stitched areas of your harness should be intact and robust. Look for:
- Missing, loose or broken threads
- Fraying thread or material
These are clear signs of wear and indicate that it’s time for retirement – even if it may not look “that bad”, you really don’t want to risk any essential stitching unravelling.
TOP TIPS
Be Careful Where You Buy
We always recommend buying your harness from a reputable source to ensure that what you’re getting is the real deal and meets all the relevant safety standards. Avoid cheap, unverified gear that you might find online and be wary of any bargain that sounds too good to be true, as these products may not undergo proper quality control. Similarly, be cautious when buying second-hand harnesses, as their history and integrity can be uncertain. Prioritise your safety by investing in trusted brands and retailers.
Check for Certifications
When purchasing a new harness, look for a UIAA and/or CE rating on the tag or packaging. These certifications signify that the harness meets safety standards set by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA) and complies with European Conformity (CE) standards. A UIAA rating, in particular, indicates a higher level of testing and safety compared to the CE mark alone, as it often requires more rigorous evaluations for climbing equipment. You can typically find these logos or markings prominently displayed on the harness label, often located in a pocket on the waistbelt.
When in Doubt, Retire!
If you have any doubts about your harness’ safety, it’s probably a good idea to retire it. For an expert opinion, you can consult the manufacturing company or, better yet, bring it along to your nearest CityROCK Gear Shop branch for a free assessment.
When it’s time for your harness to retire, make sure to cut it up or clearly mark it as unsafe to prevent accidental use.
If your harness has reached its retirement and you’re in need of a replacement, we’ve got you covered! With our wide and varied range of top-rated harnesses from the industry’s best brands, you’re sure to find your perfect match.
Browse the selection at the button below and visit us in-store at the CityROCK Gear Shop to try them out for yourself and ask our gear experts all your burning questions!
Your harness is your lifeline and regular inspections and proactive replacements ensure your peace of mind and safety on every climb. If you have any concerns or questions, visit us at the CityROCK Gear Shop and our friendly team will happily assist!
NOTE: Remember to always perform a thorough buddy check before each and every climb – your safety is worth it!
