PETZL Unisex Corax Harness For Climbing

The Petzl Corax isnt just another climbing harness; it represents a thoughtful blend of innovation and practicality. Heres what sets it apart:

• Hybrid Design: The Corax boasts a hybrid design, combining the adjustability of an all-around harness with the sleekness of a sport harness. This makes it suitable for diverse disciplines like trad climbing, ice climbing, mountaineering, and even indoor bouldering.
• Four Gear Loops: Four equipped gear loops offer ample space to carry essential equipment such as quickdraws, cams, nuts, or other accessories. These are strategically positioned for easy access while clipping in at the belay station or during ascents. The top two loops have been reinforced with a rigid plastic frame to handle heavier loads from ice climbing tools and mountaineering hardware.
• Adjustable Leg Loops: The Coraxs leg loops feature Petzl's patented SECUR ADJUST system, allowing for micro-adjustments with just one hand. This ensures a secure fit that won't loosen during dynamic falls or strenuous climbs. The buckles are easy to operate even when wearing gloves.
• Reinforced Belay Loop: The belay loop is reinforced and designed to withstand the high forces experienced in climbing, providing added safety for both you and your partner.
• Multiple Tie-In Points: Besides the standard tie-in point on the rear of the harness, there's a second one on the front. This offers versatility for different belay setups or when using specialized equipment like ascenders or chest harnesses. The double ice clipper slots further enhance its mountaineering capabilities.
• Weight Distribution: Petzl has focused on distributing weight evenly across the harness to minimize pressure points and maximize comfort, a critical factor during long climbs or all-day adventures.

Comfort is paramount when choosing climbing gear, especially for harnesses that are worn for extended periods. The Corax excels in this area:

• Soft Padding: Generously padded waist belt and leg loops provide exceptional comfort without sacrificing mobility or support. This padding minimizes chafing and pressure points, allowing you to focus on your climb instead of discomfort.
• Breathability: The harness uses breathable materials that wick away moisture, keeping you cool and dry during intense climbs. This is particularly important for warm weather climbing or when using a helmet with limited ventilation.
• Adjustable Waist Belt & Leg Loops: The SECUR ADJUST system allows for fine-tuning the fit of both the waist belt and leg loops. While this may require some experimentation to find your ideal setting, it ensures a snug and secure feel that wont restrict movement or cause discomfort.
• Wide Contact Area: A wider contact area distributes weight more evenly across your body, reducing pressure points on sensitive areas like the hips and thighs. This is crucial for climbers with broader builds or those who spend long hours in their harnesses.

Petzl has a reputation for crafting durable climbing gear that can withstand harsh conditions, and the Corax lives up to this standard:

• High-Quality Materials: The harness uses high-tenacity polyamide fibers known for their strength and abrasion resistance. These materials are carefully selected to ensure long-lasting performance even under heavy use.
• Reinforced Stress Points: Critical areas like tie-in points, gear loops, and belay loop have been reinforced with extra layers of material or stitching. This adds an extra layer of protection against wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the harness.
• Durable Buckles & Hardware: The buckles are made from high-strength aluminum alloy that's both lightweight and robust. Theyre designed to withstand repeated use without breaking or failing.

Safety is always a top priority in climbing gear, and the Corax incorporates several features to minimize risks:

• High Strength Belay Loop: The belay loop has been tested rigorously and certified to meet international safety standards. It's designed to withstand high forces experienced during falls and dynamic rope catches.
• Multiple Tie-In Points: The dual tie-in points provide redundancy in case of a failure at one point, offering an added layer of security for the climber.
• Adjustable Leg Loops: The SECUR ADJUST system ensures that the leg loops remain snug during falls or strenuous climbs, preventing them from slipping up and causing injury.
• Rigid Gear Loop Frame: The reinforced gear loop frame provides extra rigidity to handle heavier loads from ice climbing tools or mountaineering hardware, minimizing deflection and ensuring secure attachment of equipment.

The Petzl Corax has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews from climbers around the world:

• Versatility: Many users praise its versatility as a harness suitable for a wide range of disciplines and skill levels.
• Comfort: The generous padding and adjustability are frequently cited as key strengths, with many mentioning that they can wear it for hours without discomfort.
• Durability: The Corax is known for its durability, with users reporting years of use without signs of significant wear or damage.
• Ease of Use: The SECUR ADJUST system and easy-to-operate buckles make the harness quick and convenient to adjust, even when wearing gloves. However, some common criticisms include:
• Weight: Some climbers find it slightly heavier than other harnesses on the market, especially for sport climbing or indoor bouldering where weight is a key factor.
• Price: The Corax is positioned at the higher end of the price spectrum compared to basic harnesses.

The Petzl Unisex Corax Harness typically retails between $160-$200 depending on color and size. While its certainly an investment, its durability, versatility, and comfort make it a worthwhile purchase for serious climbers who demand reliable gear that will last for years to come. For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider the Petzl Cordee or Petzl Simba harnesses, which offer excellent value without sacrificing essential safety features. However, if you prioritize performance and longevity, the Corax is well worth the extra cost.

The Petzl Unisex Corax Harness stands out as a versatile and durable harness suitable for a wide range of climbing disciplines. Its hybrid design, adjustable leg loops, comfortable padding, and robust construction make it an excellent choice for climbers who demand both performance and safety.

The Corax stands out due to its adjustable leg loops that can be worn loose while belaying or walking, then tightened during climbing for a secure fit. Its lightweight design and breathable materials enhance comfort on long routes and in warm weather conditions.

Yes, the Corax is a great choice for beginner climbers as it's easy to adjust and offers good support. The adjustable leg loops allow them to find a comfortable fit without needing assistance from an experienced climber.

The PETZL Corax harness comes in four sizes: XS/S, S/M, M/L, and L/XL. Refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart for accurate measurements based on your waist and leg circumference. Its better to go with a larger size if youre between sizes.

The leg loops are adjusted using buckles located on the sides of each loop. Tighten or loosen them as needed to find a comfortable fit while ensuring they remain secure during climbing. The waist belt is also adjustable via its buckle and webbing tail.

The Corax features four equipment loops (two on each side) for attaching quickdraws, cams, nuts, or other essential gear. It also has two ice clipper slots for carrying ice screws during mountaineering trips.

Yes, the Corax is an excellent harness for sport climbing due to its comfort and adjustability. The adjustable leg loops allow climbers to loosen them between climbs while belaying or resting, preventing chafing.

Absolutely! The Coraxs four equipment loops provide ample space for carrying a variety of gear needed for traditional climbing. Its secure fit and durable construction make it reliable for all types of climbing styles.

The Corax's shell fabric is made from ripstop polyamide, offering excellent tear resistance. The lining consists of breathable 3D mesh that wicks away moisture and helps prevent overheating during extended use.

Hand wash with mild soap and cool water. Rinse thoroughly and allow to air dry completely before storing it. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can damage the materials.

Yes, the Corax is known for its durability and long lifespan. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure that it can withstand repeated use in demanding conditions.

The weight of the Corax varies depending on size. Generally, sizes XS/S weigh around 400g (14oz), S/M weighs 435g (15oz), M/L is approximately 470g (16.5oz), and L/XL comes in at about 495g (17.5oz).

Store your Corax harness in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. Avoid storing it with sharp objects that could damage the webbing or fabric. Consider using a stuff sack to protect it while traveling.

Adjustable leg loops offer improved comfort and versatility during various climbing activities. They can be loosened for belaying, walking, or resting, then tightened when actively climbing to ensure a secure fit.

While generally advantageous, adjustable leg loops can sometimes take longer to adjust than fixed ones. However, the added comfort and versatility often outweigh this minor inconvenience.

The Corax's waist belt is padded for enhanced comfort during long climbs or hangs. The leg loops are not heavily padded but feature a breathable 3D mesh lining that provides adequate cushioning.

The PETZL Corax has a CE EN 12277 Type C fall rating, meaning it's suitable for both single and double rope climbing, as well as top-roping. This makes it a versatile choice for various climbing disciplines.

Yes, the Corax is an excellent choice for alpine climbing and mountaineering due to its lightweight design, adjustable leg loops (which can be tightened during ascents), and ice clipper slots for carrying ice screws.

No, the PETZL Corax harness does not have a backup belay loop. However, it is recommended that climbers carry an additional sling or rope as a redundant safety measure in case of equipment failure.