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I'm just about to purchase a trapeze harness. Does anyone have any general advice (I've more-or-less chosen the Magic Marine Smart harness). In particular, are there any views on the efficacy, safety and general pros and cons of quick-release hooks. Are they worth having? Do they really improve safety? Are there any disadvantages with them?
Hi Eamonn
I bought the Magic Marine one. It seems good to me.
Fortunately I have not had to pull the rip cord yet but it must be a huge advantage to be able to get the hook off fast if you need to.
They deferred the rule making them mandatory so at present it is optional.
Regards
Bob
I was very undecided when choosing a harness for the first time recently. I thought a MM Smart harness would be good but found the "tight triangle" around the essential parts a little unnerving, so I sent it back. Perhaps the size was wrong.
Regarding the releasing of the hook, I think it would be important for you to be able to get rid of it under tension, which I think is not guaranteed with all makes (I don't know about the Magic one).
After some research on various chat rooms following a Google search, I decided to have a Made to Measure one from Pinnell & Bax. The service was very good and the result is extremely comfortable and gives me lots of confidence as a newbie trapeze artist. There is a little hole on the hook so you can tie it on should you have to release. Then you can save it and just plug the hook back in and not have to buy a new one or carry a spare.
The price was £115 and you have to supply a few measurements. The harness is very quick and easy to put on and take off. Despite not being adjustable I was told that it would work for someone of lesser proportions. There is also room in it for me to put on some pounds.