Petzl Altitude sizing

Was getting myself a new harness for the upcoming  ski season and thought the Petzl Altitude (usually go Petzl in most things mountaineering) would be a done deal. But I seem to be in between sizes as it’s either a small/medium or a medium/large. I usually wear a medium in climbing harnesses.

Would you go slightly too small (legs pulling a little on the waist and thigh buckles maxed out, but around the waist good) or slightly too big (legs feeling good but waist pulled in plenty leaving a bit excess). Attaching pictures. The shop did not convince in advice so hoping on you!

Thanks, I am leaning m/l as well, just have to accept it’s not going to be perfect. I’ve considered other ones but I don’t like the ultra light ones with weird double loops etc, and not a fan of the Mammut or Edelrid ones neither.

I had a small altitude, pretty similar fit as you, but I replaced it after one of the leg loop buckles straight up exploded on a top rope fall on ice. Which was probably due to that less ideal fit you noted where the waist strap was perfect but leg loops were maxed out.

 I replaced it with Blue Ice choucas pro medium which has been amazing. A bit fiddly to put on if you’re undoing the leg straps, but once it’s on it feels like a full blown harness in features and comfort, I definitely recommend it

Frome N wrote:

Thanks, I am leaning m/l as well, just have to accept it’s not going to be perfect. I’ve considered other ones but I don’t like the ultra light ones with weird double loops etc, and not a fan of the Mammut or Edelrid ones neither.

Why not try a Blue Ice Choucas Pro? Very similar but has better size options. 

That’s two for Blue Ice Choucas pro. Thank you for suggesting it! I had seen it before and now not sure why I hadn’t contemplated it. From the size references the medium should fit me well. Definitely will have to check it out!

I’ll third the Blue Ice Choucas Pro. The fixed leg Addax is awesome, too, as a general use harness. Most surprised at how great it is for the gym. Like I’m wearing nothing at all

I guess I need to check the Edelrid again, besides checking the Blue Ice. I excluded it early because of the leg loops that seemed a bit fiddly. Which seems to be the same for both of these two options. Anyway, the Altitude has been returned. :) Thank you for the advice!

I wear the Edelrid Prisma guide also and I think it's great. I haven't worn the altitude nor choucas to compare. The Prisma guide can hold 4 ice clippers and a double rack if you needed it to. it's comfy enough for hanging\rapping as required. The leg loops are a little fiddly and I can't do them with gloves, but beyond that it's a beast of a harness with super functional gear loops and clipper slots. I've happily worn it all day and not thought about it.