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The new Black Diamond Blizzard is their most functional, comfortable ice and mixed climbing harness. With a compression-molded bullhorn waistbelt and added lumbar support, the Blizzard offers great support when belaying on multi-pitch routes or hanging M-climbing. Snow shedding, durable fabrics on both the interior and exterior provide a hydrophobic barrier. It has a wider fit range than BD's other harnesses, accommodating several layers of clothing for colder temps. Adjustable leg loops allow for all-season use and nine Hypalon Ice Clipper slots allow for customized racking. Comes with one Ice Clipper. –Vendor
Bottom Line: The Blizzard was built for those who like it cold.
It's definitely not made to be a rock harness. The water-phobic padding/materials don't absorb sweat like most rock harnesses do which can result in less-than-desired comfort. I've never used it for rock, though--just ice. The ice clipper sort of interferes with traditional racking, but only slightly. After a few climbs, it's super easy to deal with it. And the ice clippers are totally worth it.
Good harness, but the gear loops and Ice Clipper loops are a little too far to the rear on both sides for my preference. You can't glance to your side and see gear on both sides easily. Maybe just takes some getting used to.
??? You can have the ice clippers nearly in front of you if you want. I know because I can set my Blizzard up like that and have done so. You must have a harness that is too small on you--maxing out the wasit belt would, in theory, move everything further back.
Seems very solid. Don't see much difference between it and the Focus AL besides the adjustability and possibly waterproofness. Consider the Focus AL if you aren't going to be doing any hardcore ice climbing.
Nice, but its nothing exceptional. It is sized incorrectly, Im a large and it didn't even go around my waist without a coat or bulky shirt. I had to reorder an extra-large, so beware. Its advertised to fit bulky winter clothes, but thats pushing it in my opinion.
This harness fits well over layers and the sizing is right for multi-layered excursions. My only complaint is that the placement of the Ice Clipper tabs could have been better, as it is they block the gear loops which can interfere with whatever you're hanging on the Clippers. On the upside, BD gives you more options of Ice Clipper placement than any other harness out there with these; definitely a great choice.
This harness is perfect for ice, alpine and trad climbing. The ice clipper loops are far easier to use than a floating biner with a bunch of screws on it, and the contoured shape is wide enough in the back to make for a relatively comfortable hanging belay. Everything is easily adjustable, even with gloves on. My only complaint is that the tie-in point is a little on the small side, making it less ideal for any aid climbing. Since it wasnt designed for that in the first place, its pretty hard to complain.
1 Comment Last Comment: October 8, 2009 by: Jesse Lind
By: Jesse Lind
October 8, 2009
It's definitely not made to be a rock harness. The water-phobic padding/materials don't absorb sweat like most rock harnesses do which can result in less-than-desired comfort. I've never used it for rock, though--just ice. The ice clipper sort of interferes with traditional racking, but only slightly. After a few climbs, it's super easy to deal with it. And the ice clippers are totally worth it.
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