How wide should the crotch strap be?

[headhunter]

I did a search in the DIR forum and couldn't find any answers to this question. I've got to believe it's been covered, but I couldn't find it.

First, I'll offer a little background info. I'm in the process of putting new gear together with it in mind that I will take the DIR-F class someday soon.

I've gotten a Dive Rite SS backplate. I was originally going to use the "deluxe" harness because it seemed more comfortable in the shop, but I discovered it was not DIR compliant and decided to get the "standard" harness instead (which I understand is DIR compliant). I never had a comfort problem with my old backpack and horse collar from the '70s, so I figured this comfort thing would be a non-issue in the water.

So, I'll get to my question. I have a choice between getting a 1" or a 2" crotch strap. It seems like the 2" strap is featured in every picture I have seen about DIR, but that the 1" strap would be just as good and more comfortable. Is there a DIR position on the width of the crotch strap? If so, what it the reasoning behind it? If not, is there a practical reason to go one way or the other?

Thanks in advance for your answers.

Christian

 

[Boogie711]

Wider strap = more comfortable. You don't want butt floss. But that's not the answer.

The reason you want a 2" crotch strap is to accomodate 2" d-rings on the front and rear, for clipping off reels and gear or for future scootering.

And BTW - I know the Dive Rite 1" crotch strap has a fastex quick release buckle. That's a big no-no. I don't know if the 2" does, but in any event, they're dirt simple to make with some 2" webbing, tri-glides and D-Rings.

 

[JeffG]

So, I'll get to my question. I have a choice between getting a 1" or a 2" crotch strap. It seems like the 2" strap is featured in every picture I have seen about DIR, but that the 1" strap would be just as good and more comfortable. Is there a DIR position on the width of the crotch strap?

That stroke GI3 uses a 1" strap on some of his gear

WKPP Equip Images

 

[ElectricZombie]

Get a standard harness. The crotch strap should be 2 inches wide and soft. When a crotch strap is fitted correctly, you don't know it's there.

 

[cornfed]

So, I'll get to my question. I have a choice between getting a 1" or a 2" crotch strap. It seems like the 2" strap is featured in every picture I have seen about DIR, but that the 1" strap would be just as good and more comfortable.

Dive Rite's 1-inch strap has a quick release buckle on it. This alone is a bad idea. The buckle could break which would be a real problem if you were scootering or towing someone whose scooter had broken.

I have a Dive Rite harness and unless they changed something in the last few months their webbing is incredibly stiff. I usually have a heavy wetsuit on so I don't notice but I have dove my in just a my swim trunks and it wasn't uncomfortable at all.

 

[DennisW]

I don't know, How wide is your.... Oh, never mind.

 

[Rick Murchison]

And BTW - I know the Dive Rite 1" crotch strap has a fastex quick release buckle. That's a big no-no. I don't know if the 2" does, but in any event, they're dirt simple to make with some 2" webbing, tri-glides and D-Rings.

Dive-Rite in fact offers both 1" and 2" crotch straps with either a fastex QR or a sewn loop without QR. Take your pick.
Rick

 

[H2Andy]

yup... Dive Rite makes both the 1-inch and 2-inch crotch straps without the quick release:

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

 

[headhunter]

So, it looks like it's OK to go either way from a DIR perspective. You're comments have helped me choose to go with the 2" strap.

Boogie - I'd rather limit flossing to my teeth. :10: My thoughts about comfort hadn't taken this into account. Even thought "that wasn't the answer" it was a leading factor in making the decision. However, I noticed in the pics that JeffG linked to that GI3 uses a 1" strap, but still uses 2" D rings.

JeffG - I guess GI3 likes to floss regularly.

Electric Zombie, cornfed - My plans for the future include a 7 mil semi-dry farmer john, so I don't imagine that I'll notice the strap either.

DennisW - So... a 2" strap would be more supportive? I think that's what you meant. :11:

Rick, Andy - thanks for pointing out the full complement of choices in width and buckles.

I've just called my LDS (http://www.hollywoodivers.com) and asked them to get the 2" strap with no buckles. When I started this process, they only had standard harnesses in stock and they ordered a deluxe harness for me. Now that I have changed my mind, they only have deluxe harnesses in stock and had to order the standard for me. These guys have been really great and very willing to work with me on getting me exactly what I want at a fair price. I've noticed with myself and others that customer service is more than just a term there. (No, I don't work there, but thought they deserved the kudos.)

When it comes to replacement in the future, I'll probably make my own. For now I'd like to see the commercial versions for future reference.

Thank you all for the help.

Christian

 

[WJL]

....

Electric Zombie, cornfed - My plans for the future include a 7 mil semi-dry farmer john, so I don't imagine that I'll notice the strap either.
....
Christian

Just a thought here - instead of that 7 mil, consider a dry suit.

The 7 mill wetsuit will compress significantly at depth, which will affect both your weighting and your comfort. For not much more than the wet suit, you can get into a dry suit. Not the best dry suit, but a dry suit.