|  |     Chris,
    
    four gear loops are adequate for my uses in leading traditional
    and sport routes. However, I have seen several harnesses lately
    which have the loops offset to one side due to the buckle
    orientation.  Although the harness owners I have spoken with feel
    they don't notice the offset in the loops, I notice the users put
    less gear on that side and have a more difficult time reaching
    those loops when climbing.
    
    A friend recently bought a newer model Metolius harness (very
    adjustable) which has loops offset toward the rear in order to have
    the buckle on the side, away from the tie-in point.  Since
    I haven't found most front buckle systems to interfere with the tie-in
    point anyway, why not put the buckle in front and make the gear loops
    more accessible?  After all, the user usually ties in once per climb
    but may access the gear loops many times.
    
    /tim
    
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|  |     Tim,
    
    Well, I went ahead and bought the 'Gorou' and tried it out last
    weekend.
    
    I did find it slightly more difficult getting at the gear but not a
    real problem. However, I've yet to find myself hanging on with one hand
    and desparate to reach a nut right round the otherside with my other
    hand... :-)
    
    	Chris
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