The Big Harness Debate
The Harness: A kiteboarding harness is necessary for “harnessing”, or holding, the power of the kite, so that your arms don’t have to. There are two types of harnesses currently available to kiteboarders: Waist and Seat.WKA’s take on Harnesses: Many women love the seat harness when they are first starting out because it provides so much support and doesn’t ride up into the chest. However, as you progress in your kiteboarding, you may find a seat harness to be a bit restrictive. Companies are now making harnesses so form fitting that many keep at the waist and don’t ride up into the chest. Dakine’s Wahine harness does a spectacular job of this. No matter which harness type you choose, it is likely you will either love it or hate it and convert to the other.
Waist harness: A waist harness sits above the hips, around the waist and gives a higher center of gravity for the rider. Here are the pros and cons:
PROS:
- Provides extra mobility for technical maneuvers, transitions, walking, and swimming.
- Easy to take on & off
CONS:
- Can sometimes ride up the torso into the chest
- May cause discomfort on lower back
Seat Harness: A seat harness sits low on a rider, at about hip level, for a lower center of gravity and pull.
PROS:
- Lower tow point allows easier water starts, controlled power riding
- Supports hips providing more stability
CONS:
- Can get hot, bulky, and uncomfortable (commonly referred to as a “diaper)
- More expensive
- Takes longer to put on & off
- Groin straps can be uncomfortable if set too loose or too tight
