Tricks on getting in/out of HOG harness

[WhiteSands]

I recently had a GUE instructor take a look at my setup and it seems my shoulder straps were too loose, and backplate too low.

I tightened it up so that I can barely slip in a palm bending forwards. I like how it feels now, and it's snug and secure in the water. It is now much easier to clip the boltsnaps on my shoulder D-rings as the shoulder straps are not floating all over the place as they used to do whenever my arm is retracted to clip on the boltsnap.

However, I'm now having problems with donning/doffing. I can no longer do it on my own and need a buddy's help, especially when I'm in a drysuit with a divecomp, watch and compass on my arms.

I know that Halcyon has the Cinch system and I'm frankly in love with it. But it's just not in my budget for now.

I'm wondering what tricks/tips the old timers use in donning/doffing a Hogarithian single piece webbing harness before the invention of the Cinch or similar devices.

Thank you!

 

[Hickdive]

1. Clip off primary 2nd stage to right shoulder d-ring.

2. Unloop your long hose.

3. Grasp long hose.

4. Pull long hose so that it pops right hand shoulder strap off shoulder.

 

[cb5150]

GUE Shmooey...sounds like its too tight.

 

[MaxBottomtime]

Remove the computer and compass first. You should be able to fit two fingers beneath the harness.

Check out the instructions at Equipment Images

 

[mala]

if its a bit snug I find it easiest to go in from below as much as possible.
so if your kit is on a bench its a knee bendy sort of wriggle.

 

[Pullmyfinger]

I keep mine pretty loose. I can easily put a fist between the shoulder strap and my shoulder.
I have plates/harnesses for wet suit and dry suit; both are set up with that same looseness.

Most people that I've seen, have them too tight.

Disclaimer: I don't know if I would take advice from a guy on the internet, called pullmyfinger.

Cheers,
Mitch

 

[TSandM]

I think you may have gone a bit too far in the other direction -- remember that, with a single tank setup, you can HAVE the shoulder straps fairly long, so long as the crotch strap is snug enough. It's only with doubles, where the relationship of the tanks to the plate is set, that the placement of the plate on your back becomes more critical.

I'd try loosening the shoulder straps just a little -- maybe an inch -- and making sure the crotch strap is snug. Turn your gauges to the inside of your wrist, or put them on after you get into the gear. Getting a little below the gear (setting it on something a bit higher) also helps.

 

[The Chairman]

The shoulder straps can have a lot of play, IF the crotch strap tightens it down. Your waist belt should be perfectly straight, but pulled down in a shallow V when tightened.

BTW, I think Tobin has resolved this as well:

Glide Harness Adapter
​

 

[fbk]

It does sound like it might be a bit too tight. I get one shoulder in and hold the bottom of the tank up with that hand. Then the other arm goes in elbow first aka "chicken wing". I have pretty flexible shoulders so have never have any trouble but it is something that you can practice at home and it will become as simple as putting on a shirt. It is easier without stuff on your arms to get caught up, especially in a drysuit.

You can also pick it up from behind with your arms through the straps and lift it over your head, lowering it into position by the tank. Don't try that on a crowded dive boat

 

[tracydr]

I had a Tech 1/ full cave GUE diver help me fit my harness and the shoulder straps are surprisingly loose. About like the above photo. The crotch strap is snug, which I can't seem to convince my husband of,yet. I guess he'll wait until we take a Fundies class to figure it out,lol.
Guys are stubborn,no? Especially instructors.