Types of Climbing Harness
A sit string harness comprises a waist belt and two leg loops which are normally connected in the front of the hips either through a permanent webbing loop called a belay loop. These are the most commonly used harnesses for recreational activities such as abseiling and rock-climbing, as they afford a wide range of movement while still maintaining a good level of safety. Ensuring the harness fits correctly is key to avoiding pain in the upper thigh area, caused by the leg loops being too tight and creating a tight feeling around the upper legs and groin area.
A chest harness is worn around the shoulders, usually with a sit harness so as to provide an additional attachment point farther up the body. This attachment point allows for better balance in some situations, such as when carrying a heavy pack (as the centre of mass is below the connection to the rope) and when the person in the harness may be unable to maintain an upright position (due to injury or other influences).
A full-body harness is the combination of a sit harness and a chest harness which are permanently or semi-permanently connected to each other. This kind of harness normally offers a wide range of attachment points. It is most commonly used in industrial/rescue situations, and also commonly used by small children while climbing, instead of a sit string harness.
