Edelweiss Alpha – Sport Harness Review
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Edelweiss Alpha,
$77, 9 ounces
Overall grade: B-
Summary:
The lightest
harness
in the review, the Alpha is also the most daring. In order to save weight, Edelweiss has done away with the standard two tie-in points in favor of a single, albeit beefy, tie-in that rises just above the swami. From a safety standpoint, this setup eliminates the advantage of loop redundancy, but the harness does still pass the CE standard. The adjustment for the swami consists of a Velcro strap that is not part of the harness’s securing system; it’s for fit only. The Alpha was reasonably comfortable and boasts four woven gear loops — a surprise on a harness of this weight — that clipped and racked well. Don’t expect the Alpha to stand up to a lot of belaying, as the belay loop consists of just one small piece of webbing. In all, this rig is best suited for the rabidly weight-conscious redpoint artist who wants to bust it out on special occasions.
Edelweiss/Liberty Mountain:
(888) 902-5462, www.libertymountainclimbing.com
The Test Results
Arc’teryx VaporBlueWater IconC.A.M.P. GekoEdelweiss AlphaMammut ApolloMisty Mountain ArêteOcun MescalPetzl SamaSinging Rock RhythmTrango FlyWild Country Helix Ziplock