This year has quietly turned into our year of hiking. We didn’t set out with that intention, but looking back, the seasons have been filled with trails, summits, and adventures from spring through summer. The best realization? You don’t need epic road trips or major plans — sometimes, adventure is just up the hill behind your house.

Over the summer, we’ve been using the Hurtta Safeguard Harness ECO on everything from quick evening walks to full-day treks in the Julian and Kamnik-Savinja Alps. After months of consistent use, it’s become a reliable go-to for warm-weather and mountain hikes.

Compared to our usual Hurtta Weekend Warrior dog harness II, this one is lighter — a big advantage on hot days or steep climbs. The three-point fit adds support without bulk, and while my dogs aren’t escape artists, I appreciate the extra security on rocky scrambles or uneven ground.

Nui has taken to the harness naturally — its structure works well with her slim frame. Nano, on the other hand, has a shorter, more compact build, which makes harness fit a bit trickier. While it isn’t a perfect match for his body type, once adjusted, it stayed in place even during intense sniffing sessions.

One of the standout features is the strong back handle, which has come in handy for lifting the dogs over obstacles like fallen trees or steep rocks. The harness is soft, flexible, and thoughtfully designed, with no pressure points or chafing — just a secure, comfortable fit.

Made from 100% recycled polyester and featuring weatherproof fabric, the Safeguard Harness ECO is ideal for muddy trails and rough terrain. It’s not our everyday harness, but it’s the one I reach for when the hike is serious and the terrain demands something tougher. After a full summer of use, it’s earned its place in our gear drawer.