The Solution to your harness questions
by xFlavxCorex on 07/29/2021Pros
Tough
Everything that the Solution has and more
Solution Guide Men
Description
Designed for all-day trad cragging or big multi-pitch projects that demand performance and comfort, the Solution Guide is a true workhorse harness. Built with ultra-tough Super Fabric®, the Solution Guide combines uncompromised comfort with durable construction to create a genuine trad climbing machine.
Whether you’re in the Valley making a free bid on the Captain, or pounding out pitch after pitch at the Creek, the Solution Guide is purpose built for trad climbing. By utilizing an ultra-durable construction consisting of Super Fabric - an abrasion resistant fabric that’s infused with tiny guard plates—the Solution Guide can withstand day after day of rugged use. The durability is matched with uncompromised comfort, which is a result of a contoured fit and our Fusion Comfort Technology, which introduces three separate strands of low-profile webbing in both the fixed leg loops and waist to create superior load distribution while reducing pressure on sensitive points. With four pressure molded gear loops and a fifth gear loop for your extra kit, the Solution Guide is the ultimate trad climbing workhorse.
Retail price
US$ 99.95
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Weight (g) WeightIn grams, the weight, as stated by the manufacturer/brand. If there are differences in weight (due to multiple sizes or optional accessories) we'll list them here. The default weight is the middle-most size, often this is size M. | 394 g Black Diamond doesn't provide the weights for other sizes so we're working on gathering this info by hand, stay tuned! |
| Fit | Men |
| Sizes | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Gear LoopsNumber of Gear LoopsGear loops are used to hold gear (quickdraws, cams, etc) onto your harness. 4 gear loops is most common. 
0 - 1 Gear LoopsMost often on full body harnesses or guide/gym style harnesses. 2-3 Gear LoopsMostly found on lighter harnesses made for [ski] mountaineering or high-end sport climbing where weight is a high priority. 4 - 5 Gear LoopsThe standard/most common number for climbing harnesses. Perfect for sport and trad. More Than 6 Gear LoopsDesigned for long multi-pitch and big wall climbing, found on harnesses made to hold the maximum amount of gear. Worth ConsideringOccasionally, the number of gear loops will change on a harness model depending on the size. There could be 7 gear loops for the med/large but only 5 gear loops for the xsmall/small. In this case we list the highest number for the filters, and then write an explanation on the product page like, “Size S/XS can only fit 5 gear loops.” | 5 Gear loops |
Ice Clip SlotsIce Clip SlotIce clipper slots are made to fit a carabiner that holds ice screws. These slots are generally only used by ice climbers but there is no disadvantage to having them on your harness. 
Less than 40% of harnesses will have ice clipper slots. And those harnesses will usually have 2 or 4 slots, often located next to, or between, the gear loops. | No |
| Belay / Tie-In | One Loop |
| Waist Buckle Type | Quick Adjust |
| Leg Buckle Type | None (it stretches) |
| Drop Seat | Yes |
Haul LoopHaul LoopTrad climbers often look for a haul loop as they're intended to haul a rope (second line) or pack (while you climb the chimney). 
A haul loop can also hold shoes or other accessories. Although not the intended use, it is also commonly used to hold a chalk bag. | Yes (0kN) |
| Certification | |
| Size Chart | XS
Waist: 61-69 cm / 24-27 in Legs: 43-48 cm / 17-19 in S
Waist: 69-76 cm / 27-30 in Legs: 48-53 cm / 19-21 in M Waist: 76-84 cm / 30-33 in Legs: 53-58 cm / 21-23 in L Waist: 84-91 cm / 33-36 in Legs: 58-63 cm / 23-25 in XL (will fit the lower range of XXL) Waist: 91-99 cm / 36-39 in Legs: 64-69 cm / 25-27 in |
Meh
by anonymous on 03/29/2020Pros
Durable material
Cons
Poor let loop length, shallow racking options
Familiarity
I’ve used it a ton
Over time, the Solution Guide did soften a bit, but it’s still stiffer than my other harnesses. Overall, I think that’s a good thing for the requirements of multipitch trad. And the armor supplied by SuperFabric ensures a long tenure, even on sporty types like me who struggle up cracks with immense effort and zero style.
The Black Diamond Solution Guide wins our Top Pick award for traditional and multi-pitch climbing because it best meets the needs for these disciplines — increased gear carrying capacity, durability, great hanging comfort — better than the competition. We also think it presents a great value and is versatile enough to be used at the crag for sport climbing as well. If you love the Solution but want larger gear loops, the Solution Guide is a perfect choice.
“Kevlar” was the word that jumped to my mind the first time I handled Black Diamond’s new Solution Guide Harness—the outer fabric, dubbed Super Fabric by BD, felt like it would be damn-near bulletproof. It isn’t, to be sure; but after putting it through the wringer on real rock, my first impressions proved correct: this thing is pretty dang granite-proof, sandstone-proof, limestone-proof, etc. There’s no rock that’s going to tear or abrade this thing.
Solution Guide Harness Details
