Men’s vs. Women’s Climbing Harnesses: What’s the Difference and Does It Matter?

When shopping for a climbing harness, you’ll often see models labeled as men’s and women’s—but what exactly is the difference? And does it really matter which one you choose? Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned climber, understanding these differences can help you find the best fit for comfort and performance.

Key Differences Between Men’s and Women’s Harnesses

Harnesses are designed with body proportions in mind, and men’s and women’s models typically have:

Waist-to-Leg Ratio

• Men’s harnesses have a larger waistbelt relative to the leg loops, as men generally have a thicker waist compared to their thigh size.
• Women’s harnesses have larger leg loops relative to the waistbelt, to accommodate a typically smaller waist and proportionally larger thighs.

Rise Height (Distance Between Waistbelt and Leg Loops)

• Women’s harnesses have a higher rise (longer distance between the waist and leg loops) to fit a higher waistline.
• Men’s harnesses have a lower rise, as men usually have a lower natural waist.

Harness Shape and Padding

• Women’s models often have a curved waistbelt to contour the hips, while men’s models tend to be straighter.
• Some women’s harnesses have extra padding in the waistbelt for comfort, especially for climbers with a more pronounced hip curve.

Wild Country's Flow 2.0 come in two versions - Men's (left) and Women's (right). They are a comfortable, all-round model with a sleek design and comfortable padding for enhanced support and breathability.

Does It Matter Which Harness You Choose?

Not necessarily! The most important factor is fit and comfort. While harnesses are designed with general body shapes in mind, everyone’s proportions are different. Here’s what to consider:

• Try both men's and women's harnesses. If a men’s harness feels too loose in the legs but fits well at the waist, a women’s model might be better—and vice versa.
• Comfort > Label. Some men prefer women’s harnesses because they provide a snugger fit on the waist. Likewise, some women find men’s harnesses more comfortable.
• Adjustability is key. If you’re between sizes or have an uncommon waist-to-leg ratio, look for harnesses with adjustable leg loops to fine-tune the fit.

Finding the Right Harness for You

At Boulder Planet Showroom, we stock a range of men’s and women’s harnesses from top brands like Petzl, Black Diamond, and Wild Country. Come by to try them on, get expert advice, and find the best harness for your climbing needs!