News — Climbing

Whether you’re a beginner climber learning to belay in the gym or an experienced big wall climber preparing to spend a week on El Cap, the importance of a reliable harness cannot be stressed enough. Just like running or cycling, climbing is divided up into many different subdisciplines and activities. Though all of these disciplines consist of moving upward on steep terrain, they’re each unique and require different kinds of gear. The ideal harness for a sport climber probably won’t be the best choice for an ice climber or aid climber. Similarly, the best harness for a beginner likely won’t...

Climbing brands usually reserve advanced technology in a harness design for high-end sport climbers. As such, these svelte models continue to get lighter, sleeker, and more minimalist. But when Black Diamond released its trad-oriented Solution Guide Harness last fall, it gave it both tech and materials on par with its sport climbing models. I’ve been testing a sample since its release on multipitch granite in Colorado and single-pitch granite in Texas. In short: The Black Diamond Solution Guide Harness ($100 for men and women) is well-appointed and extraordinarily durable. It focuses on the needs of trad climbers vying for long multipitch objectives...

Mammut released the original Realization Shorts in 2013, and like many climbers, I scoffed. “Is there really a need for this? Is this better in any way?” I thought. Essentially shorts with a built-in harness, the Mammut Realization Shorts presented a super-niche product. It seemed unnecessary and gimmicky. Sport climbing harnesses are super-lightweight while remaining comfortable, and I can take them off without changing pants. I just didn’t get it. I’ve been testing both the original Realization Shorts and the 2.0 version, launched last spring, for a full year. And, like the shorts, my thoughts have evolved. They do indeed have a...

From cushy and customized to lightweight, these picks will help secure you whether you’re cleaning gear up a climb or rappelling down. At first glance, harnesses may seem universally simple and straightforward. But their specific components make a world of difference for a climber’s needs and preferences. Our testers include an American Mountain Guides Association-certified rock guide, an intro-to-outdoor rock climbing guide, and a skilled recreational climber. These harnesses supported our cams, swings, rappels, belays, and rests on a range of North American granite from Canada to Colorado. 10 Questions From Gym Climbing Newbies, Answered Climbing indoors is intimidating. Here's...

From cushy and customized to lightweight, these picks will help secure you whether you’re cleaning gear up a climb or rappelling down. At first glance, harnesses may seem universally simple and straightforward. But their specific components make a world of difference for a climber’s needs and preferences. Our testers include an American Mountain Guides Association-certified rock guide, an intro-to-outdoor rock climbing guide, and a skilled recreational climber. These harnesses supported our cams, swings, rappels, belays, and rests on a range of North American granite from Canada to Colorado. 10 Questions From Gym Climbing Newbies, Answered Climbing indoors is intimidating. Here's...