Objects Database

MOAC Waistbelt (early version)

Accession Number

1520.2019.1

Object Name

MOAC Waistbelt (early version)

Created

28/11/2019

Creator

Hermione Cooper

Accession Date

28/11/2019

Brief Description

Canvas covered nylon webbing MOAC waistband with large metal buckle and four small metal loops.

Materials

canvas, webbing, metal, nylon

Dimensions

146(L) x4.5(W) cms

Number Of Objects

1

Inscription Description

"MOAC PRODUCTS"on label and mountain logo

Colour

orange, grey

Maker

MOAC

Object Production Place

England

Provenance

Early mountaineers simply knotted the rope around their waist when indulging in anything technical such as rock climbing or glacier crossing. It took them 100 years or so to realise that this was not a good idea if you fall off a rock or tumble into a crevasse. There are some horror stories of climbers dying because the rope restricted breathing when hanging in mid air.
It wasn’t until the 1950’s that climbers decided that a little more padding around the waist would be a good idea. Lots of innovative ideas ensued and MOAC seem to have utilised part of an old parachute harness here to create a waist belt. They, or most likely someone else, has added a canvas sheath for more padding, equipped with a couple of gear loops. A fascinating glimpse at the evolution of the modern climbing harness.
Unfortunately, we don’t know where this one came from but thanks to the innovator in absentia.
NB MOAC is the short version of Mountain Activities run by a Mountain Guide called Peter Gentil and Bob Brigham, owner of Brigham’s outdoor shops. They ran mountaineering courses as well as making gear.

Acquisition Date

28/11/2019

Condition Check Date

28/11/2019

Rules

Spectrum : UK Museum documentation standard, V.3.1 2007

Modified

28/11/2019

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