Caving Harnesses

A proper caving harness is one of the most important pieces of vertical gear you’ll own. Unlike climbing harnesses—built mainly for taking falls—caving harnesses are engineered for climbing rope, tight passages, and abrasion. Every model in this collection is selected for durability, stability, and efficiency in vertical caving systems.

What Makes a True Caving Harness Different?

A caving harness is built from a system of straps designed to hold the body securely while keeping you aligned with your vertical gear. A typical sit harness combines a waist belt and two leg loops, forming the foundation of your personal safety system. These components must fit tightly enough to prevent slipping, yet adjust easily so you can fine-tune the tension over your caving suit.

Caving harness attachment points are reinforced and designed to work with metal maillons or loop-style connectors, ensuring a secure link to your rope while reducing bulk. The construction favors strong, abrasion-resistant materials that tolerate mud, water, and continuous rope friction.

Seat Harnesses for Vertical Caving

Seat (or sit) harnesses sit low on the body. This position improves efficiency in rope ascension and stabilizes your chest ascender during upward progress. A well-fitted seat harness:

• Keeps the body aligned with the rope

• Prevents the crotch of the suit from sliding downward

• Minimizes movement between the harness and the body

• Resists tearing in high-stress areas

• Allows comfortable crawling and climbing through varied terrain

Modern caving harnesses use durable webbing and reinforced tie-in points to withstand constant abrasion—far more demanding than typical climbing environments.

Chest Harnesses and Their Role Underground

For efficient vertical progress, a chest harness works alongside the seat harness to hold the chest ascender in its ideal position. A properly adjusted chest harness:

• Keeps the upper body upright during ascents

• Stabilizes breathing by preventing compression across the chest

• Reduces the strain on arms and shoulders

• Maintains the smooth tracking of the chest ascender

• Helps distribute pack weight when carrying loads

Different styles exist—simple webbing versions and more structured models. The best choice depends on comfort, adjustability, and how it integrates with your system.

Key Features to Look For

Based on widely recognized caving technique standards, the best caving harnesses share several characteristics:

• Separate leg loops for comfort and efficient movement

• Wide, supportive straps that distribute pressure during ascent

• Durable, low-profile materials that resist snagging and abrasion

• Minimal slippage when moving vertically or entering constricted areas

• Adjustment points that remain stable under load

• Reinforced wear zones where the harness contacts the rope or descender

Some harnesses include additional gear loops or strap reinforcements, allowing cavers to customize their setup for multi-pitch systems, expedition use, or heavy rigging.

Harness Longevity and Care

Caving harnesses endure significant stress from mud, calcite, water, and rope friction. Proper care extends their life:

• Clean straps regularly using water and a soft brush

• Allow gear to dry thoroughly away from direct sunlight

• Avoid high-pressure washers (they drive grit into fibers)

• Inspect tie-in points and webbing for wear or thinning

• Replace any harness showing structural degradation, especially near attachment points

A harness that looks intact can still hide fiber damage from repeated use, so regular inspection is essential.