I think this thread has gotten sidetracked because of misunderstanding.
Nobody is stating that 'comfort' harnesses or shoulder releases are dangerous.
Nobody is stating that you
cannot or
should not utilise these configurations if you wanted to.
However, some members of the forum (myself included) who have
considerable experience in teaching students how to use this kit... or who are involved in actually designing and manufacturing this equipment... are stating a few
facts that aid understanding about the pros and cons of certain configurations.
This contrasts with less experienced divers, who contribute
assumptions and
estimations to the discussion. Whilst interesting and valued, these are not based on any real evidence or personal experience and, thus, should not be presented as
factual, definitive or 'canon'.
To clarify, from my understanding, this is what has been stated
factually in this and other threads on the subject:
1) Single-Piece Harness is
easy and
safe to remove and replace, under
any diving conditions, providing that the
correct techniques are used (as applies to any scuba skill).
2) Elaborate and expensive designs of harness are
not necessary for
most divers.
3) Elaborate and expensive designs of harness have
drawbacks and risks which don't exist with single-piece harnesses.
4) Divers with manifested physical impairments to the mobility of the upper torso/shoulders may benefit from extra releases in the harness,
if they cannot perform the
correct techniques due to that impairment.
5) Divers should
not seek to compensate for incorrect/sloppy diving technique, by changing their configuration to more elaborate harness designs or adding extra releases. This is a short-cut with very low reward and can lead to a very weak and lazy mindset in the diver.
Some thread contributers have taken to posting random photos of well-known divers using different configurations. This is absolutely
pointless, unless they can also contribute
why those divers chose those configurations. It proves nothing and adds nothing.
Hope that clears some issues up