Canyoneering harnesses must have particular specifications due to the wet environment they are used in, with durability against the effects of water as the first major concern. The Petzl Canyon is durable and wear & tear is only notable at the attachment point that you can improve the “safety” even more by doubling it up with a screw locking carabiner.
The attachment point is positioned high to avoid leaning backwards, especially for powerful waterfalls. It would have been better with a few more centimetres to allow you to sit more underneath the rappel system. The canyon protection seat cover is tough and quite high at the back so protects your wetsuit from being damaged. It is also replaceable for 26€ when it’s worn out. It should last a season for those who are canyon addicts but for occasional canyoneers it would last a lot longer.
It has a nice wide foam waist-belt with good overall support, and doubleback buckles that are easy to tighten but sometimes loosen after a few hours messing about in the water. The same for the leg loops with two adjustable doubleback buckles, but they loosen less because they aren’t under so much strain. Two reinforced gear loops, which are maybe a little too far back in their positioning (depending on the size of the person) and a bit thick for using small carabiners.
Use carabiners with a wide gate, which are easier to use in the water anyway. All-in-all it’s a great product, durable, comfortable, a little heavy but not bad considering the sport’s restrictions. The price is midway in this range of products that can vary from 50€ to 160€. It is durable for standard use. It is most suitable for the occasional or amateur canyoneer.
We used this equipment over a long period of time
These are our thoughts after intensive use:
Receive your answers by mail. Do you have a particular question concerning the design, use, durability or other about a tested product? We will answer your question personally.