Leg Straps

[raisins]

I have a rock climbing book that says a waist belt that cannot go over your hips is designed to stop a fall and legs straps are there for comfort when you fall. Another saddlehunter who says he is involved in industrial climbing safety has stated a waistbelt that cannot go over your hips is required. Every rock climbing harness I have seen with the user level says the waistbelt should be tightened so it cannot go over your hips. Since some saddles don't have this or the waistbelt is sometimes worn on the hips, leg loops may help in certain falls. I use a waistbelt and no leg loops on DIY saddles.

I think the leg straps come into play more when you have multiple layers on, especially if the layers are slick against each other (polypro against fleece, etc). I'm guessing a lot of rock climbing recommendations are based upon how you usually see them climbing (1 layer, usually thin....since they are very active and climbing is more common in warm weather). If you loosen a climbing harness belt and swing around and even swing upside down, then your leg loops will help hold you in. For me, that somewhat simulates multiple layers where the harness will be further away from your hip bones and your hips are covered in fleece, etc.

 

[bj139]

I think the leg straps come into play more when you have multiple layers on, especially if the layers are slick against each other (polypro against fleece, etc). I'm guessing a lot of rock climbing recommendations are based upon how you usually see them climbing (1 layer, usually thin....since they are very active and climbing is more common in warm weather). If you loosen a climbing harness belt and swing around and even swing upside down, then your leg loops will help hold you in. For me, that somewhat simulates multiple layers where the harness will be further away from your hip bones and your hips are covered in fleece, etc.

I did a quick search to see how this is done in cold weather and it appears the waistbelt is still critical although as you mention thinner although warmer clothing is used. Leg loops are also.

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You love spending all your time at the crag, but that summer rock harness is not exactly what you need for your transition to the ice climbing season. Putting away your trad rack also means a transition in climbing harness to ensure you are able to perform your best. While it may seem like there...

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[drew13]

If this question was answered by people that have been using a saddle for more than 2 years, I'd bet the answer would be a resounding no.

This is my 12th year of saddling. I always use leg straps. They don’t bother me walking in (over a mile sometimes), they help keep the saddle in place and they give me peace of mind. Worth the “cost” for me, personally.

 

[raisins]

I did a quick search to see how this is done in cold weather and it appears the waistbelt is still critical although as you mention thinner although warmer clothing is used. Leg loops are also.

Best Ice Climbing Harnesses of 2024

You love spending all your time at the crag, but that summer rock harness is not exactly what you need for your transition to the ice climbing season. Putting away your trad rack also means a transition in climbing harness to ensure you are able to perform your best. While it may seem like there...

www.theadventurejunkies.com

Absolutely, the waist belt is still critical. And your ribs can probably keep a waist belt down (if tight enough)....but why not let your legs help your ribs out? Ribs are a lot easier to crack than hips/femur.