Adding a crotch strap to a BCD - Safety Issues

[alphonsis]

I'm considering modifying a Mares Kaila BCD to add a crotch strap to it. My questions are mainly to do with the implications on safety.

For BP/W setups with crotch straps, it seems that the crotch strap can slip off the end of the webbing which the waist strap loops through. However, given that the bcd has a male/female clip instead of the webbing/clasp used in harnesses, it would prevent the crotch strap from slipping off.

The Dive Rite crotch strap I'm considering has a clip on it to release it from the waist strap, is this enough to be considered safe for emergency removal of the bcd?

thanks in advance for all your input.

 

[Dive-aholic]

Yes, I have a harness system that has a crotch strap designed like that. Easy release system, no more difficult than a chest strap.

 

[offroaddiver]

I use a buckle on my crotch strap. i'd make sure that you attach the other end of the webbing to the backplate/pad of the bc.
is there a particular reason to wanting to add the strap?

 

[Saltwater Junky]

What is the benefit of the crotchstrap?

 

[Dive-aholic]

A crotch strap keeps the bc or bp/w secure where you want it. It keeps it from shifting around or riding up around your head.

 

[D_B]

I have the same issue with my Knighthawk after being head down/vertical, I have to pull it back down, it's not like it's loose, it only rides up a bit, but it's a nuisance ... I'm very seriously considering adding a crotch strap like the one discussed to the plate

 

[tedwhiteva]

A crotch strap is a good thing. And if you offset the waist buckle to the right of center, the loop of the strap can be fed over the buckle which will help it fit better and not interfere with bickle release.

 

[alphonsis]

the main reason for the crotch strap is due to the the bcd rising up due to my dive buddy's wide hips, but narrow waist. This is especially an issue at the surface, but to a certain extent underwater. As the dive goes on, the bcd will start to rise up, putting the tank valve and her first stage right behind her head, preventing her from looking up. Then she has to yank the bcd down, etc.

 

[Peter_C]

A crotch strap on a BC would not be considered safe as no one expects it there and they might not know how to release it in an emergency. Or so my take on it is. Putting it over the buckle could make the buckle very hard to release. The buckle webbing is very soft and could easily roll, again not making it easy to release. Either replace with proper fitting jacket style BC or switch to a BP/W. Unfortunately the riding up part is a jacket style issue even with a properly fitting unit.

When I first started diving I had a Knighthawk. After seeing Eric's Freedom plate, I quickly switched to a much more comfortable backplate and wing with a crotch strap. The difference is night and day. No more riding up and no more having to adjust from side to side, forward and backward, other than moving air in the wing to change trim. Sucks having to move the tank on your back because you turned side ways. Not so with a Freedom Plate the tank stays put. There is no way I would ever go back to a jacket BC.
Freedom Plate

 

[Teamcasa]

A crotch strap is very beneficial to preventing the BC or BP rising up around your head when diving head up or when you are on the surface with a full bag. They also designed to secure a scooter (DPV).

Fitting one is not difficult. It should have a few fingers of slack and not bind if you bend over. The typical crotch strap is secured by a loop in the front that slides over your waist belt. It is adjusted and secured in the rear by a belt keeper. Adding one to a typical BC should not be a real big deal and as long as you are not going to scooter with it, a quick release buckle or clip will do fine.