Harnesses We recommend an alpine climbing harness.\r\n\r\nAlpine Harness vs. Rock Harness We suggest an alpine climbing harness vs. a rock climbing harness. Rainier is primarily a glacier climb, which means you spend a lot of time walking in the harness and not hanging in it. Alpine harnesses are generally simple designs with less padding on the hip and waist belts. They are lighter and allow a greater range of motion. This makes them easier to wear with a pack when climbing for long periods. Removable, drop seat or adjustable leg loops are more conveent for managing your clothing layers over the course of the day and facilitate going to the bathroom.