Whenever you plan to use a tree stand, a rock climbing harness for hunting should be in your must-have gear. Statistics show that in recent years thousands of hunters have suffered mild to severe injuries due to tree stand-related incidents. Today, we’re going to help you out by providing some great alternatives to a climbing harness for hunting. These harnesses are lightweight, comfortable, and easy to use. So, there’ll be no more excuses for you to neglect your own safety while out in the wild. And without much further ado, let’s get started.
How to Choose The Best Rock Climbing Harness for Hunting
Not much different from other hunting gear, rock climbing harness for hunting comes in a variety of styles and sizes. Finding the right one can be quite a challenging task. Especially if you’re not familiar with tree stands or high altitude hunting.
But don’t let that put you off! Here, we’ve gathered some crucial factors that are worth considering when you’re looking for a climbing harness for hunting. Hopefully, this sort of quick buying guide will make your quest for the right gear that much easier.
Weight
The first thing you need to consider is weight. Keep in mind that you’ll likely be carrying the gear during the entire adventure. So, it would be much better if you got a rock climbing harness for hunting with ultra-light construction. As well as being easy to transport, this kind of harness won’t give you a lot of trouble when it’s time to climb the treestand. To be safe, we recommend going with a harness that weighs no more than 2 lbs.
Flexibility
Avoid getting a climbing harness for hunting that requires too much effort. The last thing you want while stalking prey is to have your energy drained by some incompetent gear. Therefore, pick a waistbelt that offers high flexibility. See if you can easily get off or on from the thing. Make sure you can do it without too much struggle.
Convenience
Last but not least, think about comfort. This should be your second priority, right after safety. Don’t go with a rock climbing harness for hunting that makes you feel painful, awkward, or unpleasant. To some degree, this may result in a fall. Our advice, look for a climbing harness for hunting that offers plenty of space. Apart from that, see if it’s strong enough to support your body weight. Make sure the gear is made of quality materials, so it won’t twist when you’re up there.
Can You Fall Out of a Climbing Harness?
It’s quite unlikely. As long as you have the proper fitting, there’s no way you can fall off a harness. To be sure, you can pull down the harness, right after you’re done putting it on. You’ll find that it’s impossible to pull it over your hip.
How Often Should You Replace Your Harness?
You shouldn’t use a harness if it’s over two or three years old. There’s a good chance it has received so much abuse and damage that it could endanger your safety. Our recommendation is to get a harness with a wear indicator. This way, you’ll know exactly when to buy a new harness.
What is Saddle Hunting?
It’s basically an alternative to hunting at high altitudes, without using a tree stand. All you have to do is tie a piece of rope to the tree and then sit or lean on the harness.
Muddy Magnum Pro
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If you’re still relatively new to the world of hunting, the Muddy Magnum Pro would be a great starting harness. Most woodsmen say this is a rock climbing harness for hunting that’s pleasant to wear. It has a Tree Strap, Suspension Relief Strap, and a Lineman’s Belt. You may hear some complaints about the belt, but this problem can easily be avoided with proper sizing.
Weighing in at around 1.5lbs, the Muddy Magnum Pro is also one of the lightest hunting harnesses around. It’s offered at a reasonable price, making it a great investment for any novice huntsman. If you’re in for something that offers good value for money, then this one won’t be a disappointment.
What We Love
An affordable climbing harness for hunting, great for beginners
Pros:
- Lightweight padded nylon
- Cam leg buckles
- Magnum harness
- Lineman’s belt
Cons:
- Only available in one size
Hunter Safety System Elite Vest
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As you might have guessed from the name, this thing is an impressive hybrid of a vest and a decent rock climbing harness for hunting. Don’t let the unorthodox design intimidate you, because the Hunter Safety System Elite Vest is packed with a DVD manual. You should be able to find all the information you need to put this thing on. Apart from that, you’ll also get a primary strap and a convenient suspension relief strap.
The Hunter Safety System is the go-to gear for many hunters, mostly because it feels snuggly and doesn’t make a lot of unnecessary noise. So, if you want something a bit unusual, don’t hesitate to go with this climbing harness for hunting.
Speaking of hunting, we have lots of great recommendations regarding hunting gear here. For those with a passion for bowhunting, but a little tight on their budgets, we have a list of 13 best hunting crossbows under 500. Check them out if you want to save some serious cash!
What We Love
A fantastic hybrid between a vest and a rock climbing harness for hunting
Pros:
- Scent-destroying technology
- Deadly quiet at any temperature
- Adjustable strap
- Instructional DVD
Cons:
- It’s pretty heavy
Muddy The Safeguard
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Since its first release, Muddy The Safeguard has received a lot of love and praise. This is an ultra-lightweight gear that offers a decent amount of safety for some high-altitude hunting. Some have even said that this gear is an impressive all-in-one package. It offers everything you need, from lineman’s ropes to carabiners to SRS. As for your gears, there are no less than six storage pockets here.
With that being said, this doesn’t mean Muddy The Safeguard doesn’t have a fair share of its problem. First of all, a couple of customers complained about how difficult it was to make adjustments to the harness. Meanwhile, some others said it wasn’t very comfortable to wear. However, this shouldn’t put you off. After spending some time with this harness, we can safely say that this is the best rock climbing harness for hunting. Just make sure you give it enough time to learn how it works and you’ll be good to go.
What We Love
An ultra lightweight harness that offers many possible configurations
Pros:
- Quiet
- Lightweight
- Includes carabiners
- Six storage pockets
Cons:
- The adjustments are a little tricky
Hunter Safety System X-1 Bowhunter
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Offered at a bargain price, the Hunter Safety System X-1 Bowhunter is one of the most desired gear for many huntsmen. And in case you weren’t familiar with a rock climbing harness for hunting before, there’s no need to worry. That’s because this instrument comes with its own instructional DVD. That way, you shouldn’t have a problem putting this thing on and using it as intended.
As with other similar products on this list, the Hunter Safety System X-1 Bowhunter comes with a primary tree strap and a suspension relief strap which also functions as a deer drag. The only thing that might stop you from buying this harness is the metal buckles. They make a clicking sound and it’s definitely not a good thing when you’re trying to stalk a sound-sensitive prey. Luckily, a couple of silencers should fix this problem.
What We Love
A decent climbing harness for hunting, offered at a bargain price
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Versatile
- Primary tree strap
- 5-year warranty
Cons:
- The metal buckles made a clicking sound
Hunter Safety System Contour
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Do we have a female hunter here? If so, then you definitely don’t want to miss the Hunter Safety System Countour. As the name implies, this rock climbing harness for hunting is contoured and features a turquoise trim. This may seem like a minor touch, but you have no idea how difficult it can be to distinguish hunting gear for men and women in a glance!
Being a decent hunting gear, the Hunter Safety System Countour has a scent-lock system to ensure the prey remains unaware of your presence. Weighing around 2.5lbs, this climbing harness for hunting certainly won’t slow you down. And in case you’re having some trouble putting this thing on, there’s an instructional DVD included in the package.
What We Love
A quality harness, tailored specifically for female hunters
Pros:
- Two-lined, zippered side pockets
- 5-year warranty
- Adjustable tree strap
- Suspension relief
Cons:
- It’s more expensive than some male harnesses
Summit Treestands Men’s Pro
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Summit Treestand Men’s Pro has a quite distinctive design. The construction was inspired by military equipment, something they called MOLLE or Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment. As a result, you’re possessing plenty of attachments here. More than enough for all the gears required for a long climb.
Apart from that, this rock climbing harness for hunting also includes a lineman’s climbing rope. Make sure you use it for a smoother climbing session. It’ll make certain you have constant contact with the tree, which is great at preventing falls. As an adjustment, this 300lbs gear comes with a comfort-torso strap and sliders. What makes it so interesting is that you can wear this harness over or under your hunting attire.
What We Love
Military-inspired design, providing plenty of attachments for all your gear
Pros:
- High-performance tether
- Lineman’s climbing rope
- Quick-lock buckles
- Holds up to 300lbs
Cons:
- The end buckles could be better
Tree Spider Speed Hunter
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Compared to the other harnesses on this list, the Tree Spider Harness Hunter is something totally noteworthy. It’s the only gear that features the Speed Clip Patented Integration System. This exquisite mechanism allows you to connect the harness to a scent-blocker jacket. This way, you’ll get top-notch sneakiness when hunting for those elks or deers.
With a weight rating of up to 300lbs, it’s safe to say that the Tree Spider Harness Hunter is a sturdy climbing harness for hunting. It measures 16 x 1.5 x 4 inches, which makes it excellent for almost any kind of body proportion. And if that’s not enough, this gear also features a bungee tether. In case of a fall, it’ll absorb all shocks. Furthermore, using the climbing loops, you should be able to get back to the tree stand without breaking a sweat.
Speaking of harnesses, it’s completely okay if you want to involve the kids in your adventure. Just make sure you have the proper gear and pay attention to all safety standards. For that, we highly recommend you check out our list of 13 best climbing harnesses for kids.
What We Love
Packed with a series of excellent safety measures
Pros:
- Spider speed clips integration system
- Lightly padded
- YKK adjustable chest buckle
- Shock absorbing bungee tether
Cons:
- It’s a bit on the heavier side
Hunter Safety System Ultra-Lite Flex
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Almost like its X-1 Bowhunter version, the Hunter Safety System Ultra-Lite Flex is an equally popular piece of gear. Most tree stand hunters love how flexible this harness is. Apart from that, there are padded hexagons, which guarantee an excellent fit and comfortable use. As for the package, you get pretty much the same thing as Bowhunter. There’s an instruction booklet, a primary tree strap, and a suspension relief strap. Interestingly, you can use the latter as a deer drag.
Overall, comfort and ease of use are the two main things that have made this climbing harness for hunting manage to win over the hearts of many woodsmen. Thanks to its convenience, hundreds of hunters out there have started to think about their own safety and change their minds about safety harnesses.
What We Love
Padded hexagons for excellent fit and comfortable use
Pros:
- Padded hexagons
- Versatile
- Ultra-lightweight
- Patented HSS design
Cons:
- There’s no linesman strap included
Hunter Safety System Lil’ Stalker
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Take your kids on a hunt? Why not? As long as you’ve prepared all safety and security measures, it can be a great family occasion. In this case, we recommend Hunter Safety System Lil ‘Treestalker. This is basically a climbing harness for hunting, tailor-made for children in particular. With a vest-like design, it’s easy to wear this thing over bulky clothing. Kids can even put it on during the warmer days of fall if they really want to.
Apart from that, this harness is ultra-light and comfortable. It has a weight rating of around 50-120 lbs and comes with two large waist pockets. If you’re a hunting parent and planning to take your kids on an adventure, this is a rock climbing harness for hunting that you should try.
What We Love
Fully adjustable, great for kids between 50 to 120 lbs
Pros:
- Weighs in at only 2 pounds
- ElimiShield Hunt Scent control technology
- Two gear pockets
- Trim fit
Cons:
- Only available in camouflage pattern
Muddy Ambush
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Muddy Ambush is a harness that’s known to have the most excellent fitting among others. Carrying the structure made of nylon material, this gear promises impressive durability. Plus the shoulder, waist, and legs are equipped with padded straps. Experience comfort like no other, thanks to its ultra-light low profile design. In case you need to do a quick release, there’s a quick-release buckle at your disposal.
Furthermore, this rock climbing harness for hunting features a waist loop. It’s perfect when you want to attach a climbing belt. And for those who need to carry a binocular, there’s a silent low profile bungee bino holder for quick access. In short, this is a great product. For around 80 bucks you’ll get a climbing harness for hunting with plenty of features and high-quality lightweight materials.
What We Love
Promises impressive durability through its nylon structure
Pros:
- Lightweight
- 300 pounds
- Binocular cables
- Suspension relief pocket
Cons:
- Not recommended for climbers with minimal body proportions
Hawk Elevate Lite
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To ensure you have the most pleasant climbing experience, Hawk Elevate Lite features a lightweight construction made of nylon and utilizes soft shoulder straps. Just like most modern-day climbing harnesses for hunting, this one also comes with a flexible 360-degree movement tether. The difference is that you get a one-hand quick set of carabiners, so you can have smoother adjustments. For a secure fit and safety, Hawk adds a durable elastic chest strap and quick-release leg strap.
In case of a fall, this rock climbing harness for hunting has a suspension relief strap. It features a hidden pocket, which should give you quick access. In short, it’s one of the most inventive gear you can get on the market at the moment. If you don’t mind trying something new, give this one a shot.
And since we’re on the topic of harnessing, why don’t you take some time for our other recommendations? We’ve got a great list of the 13 best climbing harnesses, where you can find dozens of impressive gear to improve your climbing game!
What We Love
Designed to provide the most pleasant climbing experience
Pros:
- Ultra-thin chassis
- Quick connect buckles
- Memory foam fit technology
- Easy to equip
Cons:
- Made by a relatively new brand
Black Diamond Vario Speed Harness
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While it’s not strictly a hunting attire, the Black Diamond Vario Speed Harness is able to gather some popularity among the tree stand hunter community. In general, this is everything you would expect from a traditional climbing harness. But what made it even more appealing was the fact that there were convenient leg release buckles. Apart from that, you also get a healthy amount of gear loops, which will come in handy when you need to secure climbing sticks or other essentials.
As for the price, a brand new unit won’t force you to break the bank. In fact, the Black Diamond Vario Speed is an affordable rock climbing harness for hunting. If you prefer something minimalistic, don’t hesitate to go with this one.
What We Love
Comes with plenty of gear loops for securing climbing sticks and other essentials
Pros:
- Adjustable leg loops
- Affordable
- Fairly light
- Easy to approach
Cons:
- One size fits all
Under Armour Men’s Bino Harness
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Whenever you decide to go with a premium solution, look no further than the Under Armor Men’s Bino Harness. This superior gear is made from high-quality materials, including polyester, rubber, nylon, and elastane. It’s solid and strong, ready to accompany you on various types of lines and terrain. We don’t know for sure, but this climbing harness for hunting will obviously last for a couple of years.
For comfort, Under Armor includes adjustable elastic straps. Apart from that, there are additional hyperon attachments and solid metal hardware. If you’re all about quality, the Under Armor Men’s Bino is your rock climbing harness for hunting. But please note that since this product is quite popular, make sure not to miss the opportunity when you can grab one.
What We Love
A hunting harness that’s solid and tough, designed for top-notch performance
Pros:
- High-quality material
- Lightweight
- Adjustable
- Cool design
Cons:
- There’s sticky material in the harness
