new harness search

I just read a post from Michael’s Peconic Puffin about 1970’s style Windsurfing Harnesses.

I had one of those things. You would hook in and it would squeeze your ribs so tight that you couldn't breath. But Harnesses have come a long way.

They have progressed from no harness, through chest, seat, and now the most popular style seems to be a waist harness.

I'm in the process of finding a new harness to replace my "vintage" surf seat. I personally love my harness. It’s basically a basic 1990’s era waist harness, with an attached seat or diaper to keep the harness from riding up. For me it’s very comfortable. I use a 12 inch spreader bar, so no rib squeezing is involved. Problem is they [Da Kine” stopped making this type of harness years ago. Mine is now disintegrating at a rapid pace.

And you know me…I am resistant to change. So this harness is literally being held together with Kevlar dental floss. I find Waxed dental floss is probably as good a sail makers thread as, waxed sail makers thread.

When I was in Hatteras this spring I tried on a few. But was satisfied with none.

DaKine XT/ Fusion seat harness. Pulled from too low: like my hips. Plus the hook height was too low.

DaKine Nexus Is a classic “New Style” thermoformed waist harness. It felt like is was riding up on me. [I know, I know: it’s because I am sitting down too much. 20 years of bad habits coming back to haunt me]

DaKine T3 waist This one stayed put on the small of my back. But, it squeezed my lower floating ribs. Ouch.

Gary Stone of Isthmus Sailboards has been very patient with me. But I am beginning to spend my budget on postage.

Oh well, I’m still searching. One of these waist harnesses has to fit.