On Mon, 19 Dec 2005 13:14:53 -0500, "Skip Gundlach" skipgundlach at
gmail dotcom wrote:

Looking at climbing harnesses on REI, a frequently mentioned retailer of
such stuff, the harnesses I see don't look the least bit like I'd have
expected.

=================================

I used to have an REI harness in my inventory when I was actively
racing but have misplaced it somewhere. It was OK but not overly
comfortable, and it takes a little practice to get it on properly.

Climbing harnesses are very popular with the foredeck crew on good
sized racing boats because they can be worn all the time, and these
guys need to be able to scurry up the mast or out to the end of the
spinnaker pole on a moments notice. Other than that, the only other
advantage in my opinion is light weight and compact size. And oh yes,
they do project a certain macho aura among the uninitiated female set.

I personally find a conventional canvas sling type seat or even an old
fashioned board seat to be more comfortable. I just bought a new
canvas sling seat from WM last week which has a tool pocket and safety
straps, all that I need, for about $80 if I recall.