Do I Need A Crotch Strap?

[jsmith89]

I just got a BP/W and when rigging it did not install a crotch strap. I will not be using a scooter nor do I need the extra d-rings so does it make since for me to install a crotch strap?

-Jacobi

 

[M_Bipartitus]

They aren't necessary, but can improve comfort and fit. I personally like to use them so that it is easier to stay on the surface. Without a crotch strap you could have the BP slide up and push your face into the water while on the surface.

 

[redacted]

I'm probably in the minority but I tried mine with and without the crouch strap and found it to be an unnecessary PITA in a number of ways. I guess I wear my plate fairly tight so I have no problem with it riding up on the surface. If you just want to float comfortably on the surface, rollong over on your back is probably best anyway.

 

[BabyDuck]

i like the strap, because i like the waist part low (under my belly button) and the crotch strap holds it there. but there's nothing wrong with not needing/wanting one.

hope to get to meet you this coming year!

 

[DivingCRNA]

They aren't necessary, but can improve comfort and fit. I personally like to use them so that it is easier to stay on the surface. Without a crotch strap you could have the BP slide up and push your face into the water while on the surface.

I have never had a back inflated BC "push my face in the water". I still do not know where this idea comes from. But it is a common idea...

As for the crotch strap, I wondered the same thing, but put one on anyway. It helps keep the BP/W in place, gives me a place to clip/tie markers for dive game, and keeps other divers from pulling off my shorts!

But seriously....It is a cheap enough addition, does not negatively impact comfort, and can be handy. I would put it on.

 

[Potapko]

I took mine off this year and didn't notice a bit of difference. Like you, I am diving single tanks and not using a scooter. I find it more comfortable without the crotch strap.

Now that you are completely confused

 

[M_Bipartitus]

>I have never had a back inflated BC "push my face in the water". I still do not know >where this idea comes from. But it is a common idea...

I've had this problem myself, and was warned about it by my instructor. I normally dive in cold water with think wet suit and a bit of weight. With an Al 80 and no STA the weight is centered more forward and the bouncy force is centered farther back, hence there is a torque pushing my face into the water.

I don't have the problem using steel tanks since there center of mass is farther back. I suppose moving weights around some could help, but I don't have tank weights and I use enough weight that most pockets in the weight belt are full, so I haven't spent much time with better trim.

 

[CWMurf]

I have never had a back inflated BC "push my face in the water". I still do not know where this idea comes from. But it is a common idea...

When I first went to a back inflate I had it push my face into the water. I moved some of my weight from the front to the back and started using just enough air to keep my face out the water and I have no more problems.

When I first switched to the plate I would forget to clip the crotch strap about half the time. I never noticed it unless it would tangle in something, so I just removed it. I have never missed it and have never had the rig slip up my body.

I'd say just try it both ways and see which you like best.

 

[RICHinNC]

Have one but dont use it. Unfortunately I have enough gut for the belt to stay under...but Im workin on that.

 

[jeckyll]

I use it and it doesn't really bother me. I'm not sure if the rig would slide up my back if I didn't, but it doesn't get in the way of anything. I have had it hold an ill fitting weight belt in place once though

I'd suggest that you try it with and without and see what works for you.

Best of luck

Bjorn