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Misty Mountain Finesse Climbing
Harness for Women
By Courtney Nicol
I have always been a fan of simple, light, minimalist gear - devoid
of extraneous features that usually just add more weight and get in the
way. But after two years of climbing with such a harness, enough was enough.
I wanted some comfort! Enter the Finesse by Misty Mountain Threadworks,
the ideal in all-around women's climbing harnesses. The Finesse combines
all the comfort, features and adjustability necessary for any type of climbing.
I now rely on my harness to enhance my climbing without interfering with
it.
As a woman specific harness, the Finesse has a slightly longer rise and
slightly larger leg loops, important not only for comfort but also for
safety. My favorite feature is Misty Mountain's innovative ICS swami belt,
which has a double buckle entry system, providing more adjustability and
keeping the gear loops symmetric. Unlike some harnesses, the Finesse has
no annoying Velcro that pulls apart when you hang. Without a bulky waistbelt
overlap you are left with a clean, unobstructed tie-in.
As far as comfort goes, the closed cell foam pad swami with fleece lining can't
be beat. It is generously wide in back (3.5in) and narrows to just over
2 inches in front to permit scrunch moves. The foam padded leg loops also
narrow in front and are adjustable.
A very important feature for me is the "drop-seat" leg loops. The quick-release
straps on the back were a cinch to unclip and let me answer the call of
nature without untying from the rope. Other significant features include
six gear loops (4 up and 2 down), full strength haul loop and belay loop,
and ergonomic buckles with "DANGER" stamp to remind you to double the
webbing back through.
Summary: I used this harness on long day climbs, short sport routes
and for mountaineering without a problem. The only complaints I heard
were from my belayers since I was more willing to hang longer while working
a route. It's not the lightest harness on the market but the fact that
it can be used for any type of climbing is worth its weight and its price.
17.8 oz, $79.95.
Courtney Nicol is a new contributor to GearReview.com.
For more information, contact:
Misty Mountain Threadworks
718 Burma Road
Banner Elk, NC 28604
(828) 963-6688
info@mistymountain.com
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