"The" alpine harness!!
Written: Mar 01 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: lightweight and compact, inexpensive,can be put on and taken off with crampons, skis, snowshoes etc. on your feet.
Cons: buckle is hard to manipulate while wearing gloves
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| the_real_deal's Full Review: Black Diamond Alpine Bod |
I purchased an Alpine Bod for mountaineering trips.
I believe that no other harness is better suited for it's intended use than an Alpine Bod.
For glacier travel and light and fast alpine climbing, I have found nothing better.
I have used the Alpine Bod in glaciated terrain like Mt. Rainier, and some routes on Shasta, as well as on alpine climbs in China and South America. I will use it on some Sierra ridge routes where I will be roped up, but don't I don't expect to fall. I also use it for snowboard mountaineering trips.Sometimes I will carry an Alpine Bod and a length of 7mm cord in my pack if I am on a scrambly backpacking trip where one of my companions might freak out from a little exposure.
There are three main benefits to the Alpine Bod.
1)price. Who can argue with $29?
2)Ease of use. By not having a belay loop, the harness can be put on without lifting either leg, or sitting down. The harness is extremely adjustable. It will fit over everything from shorts and tee shirts to layers of fleece and shells. The buckle can be a bit awkward to feed, especially with heavy gloves.
3)lightweight. 350 grams.(about 12 oz.)The harness is constructed entirely of wide, flat webbing, with no padding. Padding is provided by whatever you are wearing.ZPErfect for alpine climbing where you are wearing more layers.
Many new climbers are attracted to the Alpine Bod and its cousin, the Bod, because of the low price. I would highly recommend against new climbers using an Alpine Bod as an all around or gym harness. Black Diamond named it the Alpine Bod for a reason.The Bod($49), which has padding, is certainly more appropriate for gyms, beginners, etc. As are the more modern contoured and padded harnesses.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
the_real_deal
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Reviews written: 6
Trusted by: 2 members
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