If I'm honest, I was immediately impressed with the Whisper climbing harness the first time I put it on. The feeling? Almost as if I wasn't wearing a harness at all. For me, as someone who often hikes in the Alps, every gram counts – and at just 170 g (size M), this harness has really impressed me on long alpine tours.
A report by Severin Parger
In the last three months I have Petzl Whisper climbing harness Worn on a wide variety of tours: mountaineering, ski mountaineering, and athletic multi-pitch routes. Wherever weight and pack size were crucial, the harness was a reliable partner. For sport climbing at high grades, it adapts to the body, which is a real advantage during dynamic movements. And it also virtually disappears in a backpack—perfect for minimalists.
For me that is Whisper the ideal companion for ambitious mountaineers and climbers who value lightness, technology and compact design
The climbing harness at a glance | Facts
+ ultralight (170 g)
+ small pack size
+ excellent freedom of movement and breathability
+ robust and well-equipped
− little comfort when hanging for long periods
− high price
− not ideal for beginners or big wall use
Climbing harness for mountaineering: lightness and technology combined
The harness scores points with its extremely thin, flexible construction. The hip belt and leg loops adjust comfortably and ensure maximum freedom of movement. I never felt restricted while climbing, especially in difficult terrain.
The Matryx Technology fabric used is made from HDPE and polyamide yarns – it efficiently wicks away sweat and offers remarkable breathability. A plus, especially on warm days or during fast ascents.
The construction of the climbing harness can be clearly seen in the Petzl product video:
Robust and durable – ideal for any terrain
Despite its low weight, the Petzl Whisper climbing harness is by no means lacking in durability. The Matryx Technology fabric used offers exceptional abrasion resistance, which I particularly appreciate when it comes into contact with rock, ice, or gear. Reinforced HDPE attachment points, webbing, and gear loops have shown little wear even after many uses. The harness holds up – even in truly harsh alpine conditions.
Plenty of space for hardware – well thought out even for long tours
A real highlight is the gear storage: two large, rigid gear loops at the front, two flexible ones at the back, and a particularly practical fifth loop for a haul rope or shoes. I used it regularly to attach approach shoes. Even with a heavy backpack on my back, there are no annoying pressure points.
Two mounting options for Petzl Caritool (also tested by other brands) ensure that you can safely stow ice screws or additional gear. Not only the Petzl models worked for me, but also tools from other manufacturers.
Matryx Technology – lightweight but extremely robust
MATRYX Technology is truly the heart of the harness. The special weaving technique with HMPE strands ensures that the Whisper is extremely durable despite its low weight. In practice, this means that even rough rock, scree, or ice won't damage the material. For me, this is a true safety and quality feature that I wouldn't want to be without.
Finally: Criticisms of the Whisper climbing harness
Where there's plenty of light, there's always shadow. As much as I love the comfort when walking and climbing, things get critical during longer hanging phases or multiple abseils. The padding is minimal and not ideal for more sensitive individuals or big-wall climbers. I wouldn't recommend the Whisper to beginners either: The high price and highly technical design make it more suitable for experienced alpinists. Those who only climb occasionally can find cheaper alternatives with more comfort.
Conclusion: Who is the Petzl Whisper suitable for?
For me, the Whisper is the ideal companion for ambitious mountaineers and climbers who value lightness, technology, and a compact design. If you frequently go on long tours and want to save weight, this is the perfect choice. However, there are more suitable models for beginners or big-wall enthusiasts.
And as far as the size selection is concerned: Especially in combination with a down jacket on high tours, it was worth its weight in gold to choose a size larger – L instead of M, even though I usually wear M for my Petzl harnesses.
Petzl Whisper size chart
| Size | XS | S | M | L |
| waist size | 65-71 cm | 71-77 cm | 77-84 cm | 84-92 cm |
| leg loops | 48-53 cm | 48-53 cm | 52-57 cm | 55-60 cm |
| Weight | 140 g | 155 g | 170 g | 185 g |
| Warranty | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years | 3 years |
| Packaging | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
About the author
Severin is a passionate alpinist and has been in the mountains since childhood. As a member of the Austrian Friends of Nature's Alpine Team (2020-2022), he has traveled throughout the Alps and completed his final expedition in the wild mountains of Kyrgyzstan. His favorite disciplines are alpine climbing, ice climbing, and ski touring.
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Credits: Clipping: Petzl / all other photos: Archive Severin Parger