Field Tested: Trango Prism harness
This harness is ideal for most sport climbers. It’s light, but not too light so as to blow out quickly. You’ll hardly notice it, even for long belays. And it’s fairly inexpensive.
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A Unique Fit
Not to brag, but my butt is a lot larger than my waist. In most cases, this is an asset (no pun intended). But when it came to this harness, even though the waist fit OK, I almost couldn’t pull it up and over. I think a size medium might have served me better, which is a first in my life (I’ve always been a small).
With that note out of the way, the Trango Prism harness did not disappoint. It’s comfy—the waist belt and leg loops distribute weight well, and, being constructed with a padded mesh lining, they breathe. More importantly, the harness has held up nicely through the four-month season I’ve thus far put it through, which has included outdoor climbing almost every weekend and a few weekday outings as well. This harness has seen some whips! There’s currently only slight wear on the bottom tie-in point, which is totally normal for the mileage.
Light Done Right
Coming in at 288 grams, it’s a heavy-lightweight, which is honestly a sweet spot between durability and sport climbing practicality. Yep, you’ll happily reach for this one both for your redpoint goes and long belays. Just maybe not for filming on a static line, which I did twice with this harness and would not totally recommend.
I like the width of the waistband—not too wide so as to dig in when you twist and turn. Not too stiff either. And the webbing belt is “floating” within the waistband, meaning you can easily rotate the harness around it for optimal positioning, regardless of how much or little you have it cinched down. There are four ample gear loops—all you need for your casual day out at the crag.
You won’t notice the leg loops are there, which is a good thing: They’re light and flexible, while an adjustable elastic riser in the back allows you to adjust the leg loops up or down
Price-Point Harness
At $60, the Prism on the lower end of the harness price range. And given how well it’s held up for me, I’d say that’s a bargain! Plus, it comes in three colors—blue, red or green.
Back to my first note: If you’re packing in the rear, I’d recommend sizing up.