Climbing is an amazing way to stay in shape, explore nature and challenge yourself. To find success and safety in your adventures, having the right gear is essential. One of the most important items is a climbing harness – it keeps you secure in the air. Caring for it properly ensures your harness stays in good condition and keeps you safe on your climbing expeditions.
Wash Harness After Each Use
It’s important to clean your climbing harness after each use. Sweat, salt, dirt and chalk can all build up on the harness and reduce its lifespan. To do a thorough clean, remove all hardware and webbing from the harness and hand wash with warm, soapy water. Rinse the harness and hang it in the shade to dry. This will help to keep the harness in good condition for many years, so it’s worth taking the time to do it.
What Detergent Should I Use?
It’s best to avoid any detergent with harsh chemicals or abrasives. Instead, mild detergents that are free of soap, dyes and fragrances should be used. For example, a mild detergent designed for delicate clothing or commercial climbing harness cleaners are great options.
Can I Put It in the Washing Machine?
No, it’s not recommended to put the harness into a machine as the hardware can become damaged or the webbing can become strained in the process.
Replacing Worn Parts
Regularly check for loose, frayed or faulty webbing, buckles, leg straps or other parts of the harness. If any part looks worn or damaged, it’s best to replace it. Many companies offer a free part replacement service when you purchase a harness, and most climbing stores will have replacement parts.
Which Parts Should I Replace?
Replace any parts made of nylon webbing, such as the waist belt, leg loops, belay loop and drop seat buckles. Check foil-faced buckles, like the ones on the waist-belt and leg loops, to make sure they are functioning correctly. Plus, inspect any metallic parts on the harness, including grommets and buckles to make sure they aren’t worn or broken.
Store Harness Properly
It’s important to keep the harness in a cool, dry place so it doesn’t become exposed to moisture or light. Don’t store the harness in direct sunlight or leave it sitting in the car for extended periods of time. This can damage the webbing and compromise its strength. It is also best to store the harness in its original packaging if possible.
People Also Ask
How Long Should a Climbing Harness Last?
A good climbing harness should last between 4-7 years with regular maintenance and care.
Should I Buy A Used Climbing Harness?
No, it’s not recommended. Used harnesses could wear out much sooner and potentially be unsafe.
Does a Climbing Harness Ever Expire?
Yes, it’s recommended to replace a climbing harness every 5 years regardless of condition as its strength and safety level can degrade over time.
How Tight Should a Climbing Harness Be?
Your harness should fit snugly, but not be dangerously tight. Leave room to fit two fingers between your body and the harness.
Are Climbing Harness One-Size-Fits-All?
No, different brands of harnesses correspond to different sizes. It’s important to get the right size when buying a harness.
Final Words
A well-maintained climbing harness can make all the difference in the world when it comes to safety and performance. Following the steps above ensures your harness is ready for any route or rappel you come across. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced climber, taking good care of your harness on a regular basis is a must for any adventure.