Most waistbelts and leg loops are padded for comfort. Full body harnesses are designed for use with children and anyone whose body shape will not allow a waist harness to function properly. These harnesses incorporate chest, back and shoulder support to make up for the lack of an anchor point at the hips. Most children need this style harness until age 10. Follow the manufacturer's recommendation for fitting.
Most harnesses use full-strength buckles to join the waistbelt.
Be sure to have a thorough understanding of the manufacturer's recommendation for using the harness and the buckle. If the buckle and the harness are not secured correctly, they can come apart, a potentially fatal occurrence. Most harnesses must be buckled a very specific way in order to be secure. Be certain that you follow the manufacturer's instructions to buckle correctly every time. A loose harness slips, chafes, and, in an inverted fall, the climber could slip out of it.