Out of the Box — Mammut Zephir Altitude Harness

by Rachel Bellamy
written by Rachel Bellamy

It is always nice when a package arrives and you know exactly what piece of equipment is inside, but it is lighter than you were expecting. That was one of my initial thoughts when opening the bag for the Mammut Zephir Altitude Harness.

Back/side view. The harness has a gear loop on each side and is compatible for up to four ice screw carabiners.

Back/side view. Mammut Zephir Altitude has a gear loop on each side and is compatible for up to four ice screw carabiners.

For mountaineering specific harnesses, this is what I look for:

  • Packability and weight — it is likely to spend a good amount of time in the backpack. It needs to be small and light.
  • Function and safety — gear loops and buckles should be placed well and easy to use with light gloves on and while wearing a backpack. It should be straight forward to put on and take off without needing to remove boots or crampons.
  • Fit and comfort — the hips and leg loops should have a wide enough range of adjustment to fit properly over a lighter to a heavier clothing kit. The harness should be comfortable to walk/ski in but I’m not expecting it to be super luxurious while hanging in it. They are able to reduce weight significantly by lessening the padding.

    • Front view. Minimalist design.

    Front view. Minimalist design.

    The Zaphir Altitude already meets my packability standard.

    Mammut Zephir Altitude meets my packability standard.

    With upcoming trips in the North Cascades, I’ll put the Zaphir Altitude to the test in the field.


    Specs:
    Weight: 215g
    Dyneema webbing
    Plastic and metal hip belt buckle
    Plastic leg and dropseat buckles
    Adjustable leg loops
    Two gear loops and four ice screw carabiner attachment points
    Color available: orange/grey
    Mesh stuff pouch included

    Shop for Mammut harnesses here.

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