how do I soften new/rigid webbing??

[MXGratefulDiver]

Can't imagine standard webbing would feel very good between the legs, even after the fabric softener treatment. Ouch ...

Definitely spend the money to purchase one ... they're inexpensive.

DiveRite, Halcyon, Oxycheq all sell crotch straps ... so you can easily find one at your LDS or online. DR sells two versions - a standard 2" strap and a 1" with a quick-release buckle. Their 2" strap doesn't come with a butt D-ring, so you'll have to add one, if wanted. Their 1" strap won't even accommodate one ... and is designed primarily for recreational (non-tech) use.

http://www.diveriteexpress.com/bcs/cstraps.shtml

... Bob (Grateful Diver)

 

[Mako Mark]

I recommend goose grease.

It keeps things soft even when Im not wearing a crotch strap......

 

[MechDiver]

makes the chicken-winging into the thing (thanks Mech) a lot easier.

K

I exist but to serve

 

[ChrisA]

I just rigged up my backplate. I installed a 2" crotch strap. Seems to fit well, but is there anything I can do to the webbing to soften it up and make it a bit less rigid?

-Andrew

I've had the same problem with docklines that I use to tiw up my boat.
Put it in the washing machine and let it go several cycles. Do a few loads of
cloths but just leave to rope or webbing there through several loads. A mesh
bag will control the tangles

I read where someone said "do 20 dives". This is the same thing only it
take days not weeks.

 

[aalbinger]

Thank you for all of the replies.

I looked at a Halcyon crotch strap at the LDS and I admit it was pretty cool and very pliable/soft. However, I have about $20 in the backplate (DIY 1/8" aluminum) and $40 in stiff webbing, keepers, and d-rings. So spending another $40 on the crotch strap just didn't seem to fit.

I ended up going to Hancock Fabrics and picking up some 2" webbing intended to use for handles on gym bags and the like. Seems like it will work great. Quite pliable/soft but still seems sturdy. And for $3 I got enough to make about 3 crotch straps. If it wears out a bit faster than the really stiff webbing from the LDS I can replace it easily.

Thanks again!

-Andrew