Windsurfer harness don't damage your wetsuit. Kite harness do so you must wear aboard short above you wetsuit to protect it. Otherwise why would they do that?
I was sold a kite waist harness (ION). Nearly killed me! The hook became wider at the end, like a bulb. After a catapult, if there was some twisting on the lines, they would lock onto the hook, leaving me under the sail, struggling to release. I found the harness to be aimed at kiters on the web, not real happy to be sold it as a beginner. Have since bought 2 windsurf specific harnesses, their hooks stay the same width all the wat to the end or reduce. Pet peeve of mine!
Kite harnesses have a hook which tapers at the base so the chicken loop doesn't accidentally come unhooked. As Seaskip has said this is dangerous for windsurfers who need to unhook readily. Windsurf hooks have parallel sides. Kite harnesses also have an attachment for the kite leash. Kite harnesses also come in a wider range of fashion finishes and colours, because those things are important to kiters!
Crikey waveslave that's a lame answer for you i was going to right windsurfer harness dont come with the gay sticker on it but i didn't lol this forum is meant to be fun isn't it no offence to the tea baggers as some are cool like poleys!
Hey all, I am not an officianado on the differences between hook/bar types/brands etc but being 'heavy' in my use of equipment I would urge you to inspect your hook before every session and after every loaded crash/catapult. They get bent and you need to tweak them back into shape sometimes, or replace them if you prefer .
elmo said... Two differences between Kite and windsurf harness's
The spreader bars (a doddle to change)
And often
The Kite harness's are better designed and more comfortable
I've been using the Kite seat harness's for a while now and found them far more comfortable
You do have to get used to having a "bitch grip" on the back though
What exactly is a bitch grip?
A bitch grip is when you shake some guys hand and it feels like a limp fish. ^^^
It's the handle on the back of a kite harness which allows the kiters mate to grab him (like a bitch) and hold his arse securely to stop it from being blown away
