Arc’teryx Equipment, a global leader in high-performance mountain apparel and equipment, introduces the new Lithos SL harness, a true game-changer in sport climbing.
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Arc’teryx introduces Lithos SL, the next generation of sport climbing harnesses
The Lithos SL introduces the latest evolution of Warp Strength Technology™, offering an industry-first sizing system and the perfect balance of lightness, strength and comfort to meet the demands of modern sport climbing.
Since its founding in Vancouver, British Columbia, Arc’teryx has been a global leader in the development of high-performance technical gear, trusted by mountain athletes around the world. The Lithos SL continues this legacy through close collaboration with athletes, rigorous field testing, and a relentless commitment to innovation.
Warp Strength Technology™: Evolution of an iconic design
At the heart of this evolution is Warp Strength Technology™, Arc’teryx’s patented next-generation harness design.
Launched in 2008, this innovative technology redefined the industry standard with a thin, lightweight, high-performance harness. With the launch of the Lithos SL in spring 2026, Warp Strength Technology™ takes another step forward by introducing a new load distribution system and an even thinner, lighter, and stronger construction.
The redesigned structural fabric runs across the entire width of the belt and leg loops, anchoring directly to the load-bearing fibres through lamination and precision stitching.
At just 2mm thick, the Lithos SL represents one of the most comfortable, robust, and balanced versions of Warp Strength Technology™ ever created. The wraparound structure ensures exceptional suspension support and maximizes freedom of movement.
The Lithos SL harness redefines the standards of sport climbing through an essential, high-performance design.
“With this new design, we wanted to improve precision and simplify the manufacturing process, while reducing weight while maintaining the durability that is a hallmark of Arc’teryx harnesses. This is the most tested harness we have ever developed, both in the lab with intensive wear and tear tests and in the field with our athletes.”
Mike Foley, Senior Designer of Hard Goods and Equipment.
Collaboration with athletes and new sizing system
The Lithos SL harness was developed in close collaboration with Arc’teryx athletes, including Jonathan Siegrist and Alannah Yip.
Their feedback on the harness’ performance, along with testing and data collected during real falls, was instrumental in developing the new load-bearing structure, fit system, and the product’s high standards of durability.
Thanks to in-house prototyping, the first samples were designed to fit different body types. This process led to the creation of a new numerical sizing system, an industry first.
Industry standards for sizing and fit don’t account for the diverse body types in climbing. Putting on a harness isn’t like putting on a pair of pants. That’s why sizing should work differently. Fit is critical to safety, comfort, and performance. We wanted every climber to find the perfect fit, and this new system allows you to do so based on your body type. We’ve worked to perfect the fit so it moves with your body and stands up to real-world challenges.
Mike Foley
A fit system designed for every climber
The new system introduces six waist sizes, each available with two different leg loop options.
This way, every climber can choose the most suitable harness based on their body proportions, going beyond traditional size charts and improving precision, comfort, and mobility.
“The Lithos SL is so incredibly light and low-profile that you forget you’re wearing it.”
JONATHAN SIEGRIST
Availability
The Lithos SL, the next generation of sport climbing harnesses, will be available in Arc’teryx stores worldwide and online starting May 8, 2026.
