Petzl Hirundos Harness Review
Lightweight and Durable for All Climbing Adventures
By Truc Allen, Edgeworks
What is your favorite thing about the harness?
My favorite thing about the Petzl Hirundos harness is its combination of weight, packability, durability, and simplicity. The harness features only a single buckle, elastic leg loops for easy layering, and gear loops that strike a balance between functionality and comfort. The front gear loops are stiff, while the back loops are flexible, making it easy to access gear even when wearing a pack. Overall, the Hirundos offers a great balance between weight and comfort.
What type of climbing did you use the harness for?
I’ve used several Petzl Hirundos harnesses over the last 15 years for a variety of climbing activities, including single and multi-pitch climbs, mixed/dry tooling, and hanging in them for extended periods while shooting photos. I’ve found the harness to be reliable and versatile, even in demanding situations such as climbing Washington’s Infinite Bliss with a full rack of gear.
Is it comfortable?
Comfort is not always my top priority when choosing a harness, but the Hirundos has been surprisingly comfortable for its weight. While some reviews suggest that comfort is a mixed bag, I believe that for its weight, the Hirundos offers a good level of comfort. However, it’s important to note that this harness is not designed to prioritize comfort over weight. If comfort is your primary concern, you might want to consider a harness like the Petzl Adjama or Sama, which are more focused on comfort but are heavier.
Is there anything you don’t like about it?
There isn’t much I dislike about the Hirundos. However, the suitability of the harness depends on what the user is looking for. For beginners, I recommend trying out harnesses like the CAMP Energy CR3 or the Black Diamond Momentum, which offer more comfort and are more budget-friendly. It’s crucial to try out harnesses in person to ensure a proper fit, as an ill-fitting harness can be uncomfortable and unsafe.
Petzl Hirundos key features:
- Lightweight and freedom of movement: Thin, flexible waistbelt for total freedom of movement, flexible leg loop bridge for comfort, and elasticized leg loops for a secure fit.
- Comfortable when hanging: FUSEFRAME construction with thermoformed foam for consistent comfort, smooth-seamed edges, and breathable, moisture-wicking fabric.
- Versatile: Two semi-rigid front gear loops, two flexible rear gear loops, rear accessory loop, and compatibility with ice screw holders.
- Durable: Reinforced tie-in points, durable exterior fabric, and DOUBLEBACK HD buckle for easy adjustment.
- Compact: The harness is compact when folded down for easy transport.
If you’re in the market for a new harness, be sure to check out Edgeworks’ Pro Shop. As a leading retailer of climbing gear, Edgeworks offers a wide selection of harnesses, including the Petzl Hirundos. Visit us in Seattle, Bellevue, or Tacoma and start your climbing adventure today!
