Collection: Hunting Harnesses

Treestand falls are the leading cause of hunting-related injuries and fatalities—more than firearm accidents. Studies show 1 in 3 hunters who use treestands will experience a fall resulting in injury. A full body harness connected to a lifeline or tree strap prevents you from hitting the ground if you slip, lose balance, or the stand fails. Always wear your harness from the moment you leave the ground until you return.

Full body harnesses distribute fall arrest forces across your shoulders, chest, waist, and legs, reducing injury risk during a fall. Single strap belt harnesses concentrate forces on the waist and are no longer recommended by the Treestand Manufacturer's Association. Belt harnesses can cause internal injuries and make self rescue difficult. Always use a full body harness for treestand hunting.

A properly fitted safety harness sits snugly without restricting movement. Shoulder straps should run straight down your chest without gaps. Leg straps should be snug but allow two fingers underneath for circulation. The tether connection point should sit between your shoulder blades. Adjust all straps before climbing and check fit each hunt—clothing layers change with weather conditions.

A lifeline is a rope that runs from above your treestand down to the base of the tree. Using a prusik knot or carabiner, you stay connected to the lifeline while climbing up and down—the most dangerous times for falls. Without a lifeline, you're unprotected during the climb. Malta Dynamics 30' Reflective Lifelines provide continuous connection from ground to stand.

Suspension trauma occurs when blood pools in the legs during prolonged hanging in a harness, potentially causing unconsciousness or death within 20-30 minutes. Use a suspension relief strap to take pressure off your legs by creating a loop to stand in. Have a self rescue plan and carry a cell phone to call for help. Practice recovery techniques before hunting season.