Let’s Dive into Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair promises comfort and stability for those hanging belays that can stretch into hours. Crafted by Black Diamond, a trusted name in climbing gear, this chair aims to alleviate the discomfort of prolonged suspension.
I’ve been a climbing guide for over a decade, and I’ve always sought a more comfortable solution for extended hanging belays. I was tired of the harness pinching and restricting circulation, turning what should be a scenic experience into an exercise in pain management. This chair seemed like a potential answer.
Unboxing the Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair, my initial thought was that the construction felt solid, though simpler than I expected. The materials felt durable, and the stitching looked robust, promising longevity. At 1.9 lbs, it felt manageable, though I was curious how it would translate to carrying it on a multi-pitch climb.
Compared to a standard padded harness or a makeshift belay seat rigged from webbing, the Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair seemed like a dedicated and comfortable solution. I’d tried using a climbing harness with extra padding before, but the weight and bulk often outweighed the comfort. Webbing seats are lightweight but offer minimal support and tend to dig into pressure points.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. It looked well-made and thoughtfully designed. I was eager to test it out and see if it lived up to the promise of a more comfortable hanging belay.
Real-World Testing: Putting Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair on a multi-pitch climb in the Shawangunks, New York. The route involved several hanging belays that lasted upwards of an hour.
The chair performed admirably in the mild, dry conditions. It distributed my weight more evenly than a standard harness, significantly reducing pressure on my hips and legs.
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair took a bit of getting used to; primarily adjusting the suspension straps for optimal positioning and comfort. Once dialed in, however, it provided a welcome respite from the usual harness discomfort. I did find that managing the chair while also managing ropes and gear took some coordination.
After the first use, I noticed a slight abrasion on one of the webbing loops, likely from rubbing against the rock face. This didn’t impact functionality, but it raised a question about long-term durability in abrasive environments.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair has become a staple in my climbing kit for multi-pitch routes. It continues to provide significantly improved comfort during hanging belays.
The chair has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear and tear, mainly some fading of the fabric and further abrasion on the webbing loops. The stitching remains intact, and the overall structure feels solid.
Maintenance is simple: I occasionally wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and chalk. The chair is easy to store and pack, though its bulk is still noticeable compared to a standard harness.
Compared to previous attempts at creating comfortable hanging belays, the Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair far outperforms anything I’ve tried. It offers a dedicated and relatively lightweight solution that significantly enhances the overall climbing experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair
Specifications
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair weighs in at 1.9 lbs (862 g). It is classified as a “Climbing Accessory Type: Other,” indicating it’s not a standard harness or belay device, but a specialized comfort item. The weight is a key consideration for climbers mindful of pack weight on long routes.
The chair is manufactured by Black Diamond, a reputable brand known for quality climbing equipment. This gives users confidence in the chair’s design and construction.
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair is designed to enhance comfort during hanging belays or for repainting sea-going vessels. It speaks to the chair’s versatility, although its primary function is clearly climbing-related.
Performance & Functionality
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair excels at its primary function: providing a comfortable and stable platform for hanging belays. It evenly distributes weight, reducing pressure points and allowing for longer periods of suspension without discomfort.
The chair’s strength lies in its simplicity and focus on comfort; however, it does require some practice to efficiently manage it along with ropes and gear. It meets expectations as a dedicated comfort solution, but it’s not a replacement for a standard harness.
Design & Ergonomics
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair features a straightforward design with durable materials. The chair itself is suspended by adjustable webbing straps, allowing for customization of the seating position.
The design is user-friendly, though finding the optimal strap adjustments takes some trial and error. The bulk of the chair can be a minor inconvenience when maneuvering on the wall.
Durability & Maintenance
The chair is constructed from durable materials and robust stitching, suggesting a long lifespan with proper care. Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient for maintenance.
Repairing the chair may be difficult due to its specialized construction; however, the overall build quality minimizes the need for frequent repairs. The webbing loops appear to be the most vulnerable point.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, reflecting its simple and focused design. There aren’t many direct customization options beyond adjusting the suspension straps.
It is compatible with standard climbing harnesses, allowing for integration with existing gear setups. Carabiners and other climbing hardware are necessary to properly connect the chair to an anchor.
Pros and Cons of Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair
Pros
- Significantly enhances comfort during extended hanging belays.
- Durable construction and materials suggest a long lifespan.
- Distributes weight evenly, reducing pressure points and improving circulation.
- Simple and user-friendly design.
- The Black Diamond brand offers reliability.
Cons
- Adds weight and bulk to your climbing gear.
- Webbing loops may be susceptible to abrasion in harsh environments.
- Requires practice to efficiently manage along with ropes and gear.
Who Should Buy Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair?
Perfect for: Multi-pitch climbers who frequently encounter extended hanging belays. Climbing guides and instructors who spend significant time suspended in their harnesses.
Who should skip this product? Climbers who prioritize minimal weight and bulk above all else. Those who primarily climb single-pitch routes or rarely experience hanging belays.
Must-have accessories or modifications? High-quality locking carabiners for secure attachment to anchors. A small gear sling to keep essential items within easy reach while seated.
Conclusion on Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair
The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair is a worthwhile investment for climbers seeking a significant increase in comfort during hanging belays. It’s a specialized piece of gear that excels at its intended purpose.
The price of $79.95 is justified by the improved comfort and potential for longer, more enjoyable climbing days. The Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair is a solid choice.
I would personally recommend it to any climber who regularly experiences discomfort from prolonged suspension. If you’re tired of the harness squeeze and looking for a more civilized way to hang, give the Black Diamond Bosun’s Chair a try. Your hips and legs will thank you.