This is the freest-feeling setup for sport and competition climbing.
Mammut released the original Realization Shorts in 2013, and like many climbers, I scoffed. “Is there really a need for this? Is this better in any way?” I thought.
Essentially shorts with a built-in harness, the Mammut Realization Shorts presented a super-niche product. It seemed unnecessary and gimmicky. Sport climbing harnesses are super-lightweight while remaining comfortable, and I can take them off without changing pants. I just didn’t get it.
I’ve been testing both the original Realization Shorts and the 2.0 version, launched last spring, for a full year. And, like the shorts, my thoughts have evolved. They do indeed have a place in sport or competition climbing, where they perform incredibly well.
In short: The Mammut Realization Shorts 2.0 provide a freer feeling for the gymnastic movements of sport and competition climbing. But its upsides, utility, and comfort on belay or arresting falls come with a premium price.
Mammut Realization Climbing Shorts
Pulling on the Realization Shorts felt like pulling on a harness. I had to fish my legs through internal leg loops and squirm through the waist belt.
But once I zipped up the standard fly and snap closure, then tightened the dual opposing pre-threaded harness buckles, I soon forgot I was wearing an EN- and UIAA-certified rock climbing harness.
The non-adjustable leg loops and waist circumference felt on the money for my 22.5-inch thighs and 32-inch waist. And I had plenty of tails remaining on the waist adjustments.
The fabric of the shorts felt breathable, light, and stretchy, as did the drop liner. A gusseted crotch and vented lower back section round out the build. If the harness weren’t in the shorts, they would still be a top pick for sport climbing on hotter days.
Initially, I could feel both the waist belt and leg loops of the internal harness, but soon the sensation disappeared unless I intentionally thought about it.
So, are they lighter? The target audience for the Realization Shorts surely wants to know.
The verified weight of the men’s size medium Realization Shorts 2.0 is one pound. My standard warm-weather combination of an Edelrid Ace harness and Mammut Crashiano shorts comes in at the same weight. So, at least for me, there are no weight savings.