sedaky

Sedáky are safety harnesses worn around the waist and thighs to connect a climber or worker to a rope system. They are used in activities such as rock climbing, mountaineering, rope-access work, rescue operations, and industrial fall protection. The harness distributes weight through the hips and legs and provides attachment points for ropes, belay devices, and equipment.

A typical sedák consists of a waist belt, two adjustable leg loops, a belay or tie-in loop, and gear loops for carrying carabiners, quickdraws, and other gear. Modern sedáky are usually made from high-strength nylon or polyester webbing, with padding in the waist and leg areas for comfort. Closures are commonly double-backed buckles or quick-release/auto-lock systems, and the belay loop is a central point for rope attachment. Many models include padding, color-coded components, and reinforced stitching to increase durability and comfort.

Variants range from the common sit harness (belt around the waist with integrated leg loops) to full-body or chest-and-waist configurations used in specialized work or rescue scenarios. Sit harnesses are the standard choice for climbers, providing mobility and support, while full-body harnesses can offer additional restraint or stability in certain tasks.

Safety and inspection are essential. Harnesses should be inspected for wear, fraying, cuts, and damaged stitching before each use. They must be used with appropriate ropes, carabiners, and belay devices, and must fit snugly with adjustments made to ensure correct tie-in points. Compliance with relevant safety standards (such as UIAA or CE markings) is common in many regions, and regular retirement according to manufacturer guidance is advised.

Etymology and usage: in Czech and Slovak, sedák means a climbing harness, with sedáky being the plural form. The term is widely understood in European climbing communities.