Do you use a chest strap w/BP&W or not, and why?

JT2 · Oct 25, 2002

I have noticed that about half of the people I have seen wearing a BP/wing setup are using a chest strap and the other half don't. I just ordered a Halcyon Pioneer 36# package deal and I notice that it does not come with a chest strap, could some of you please comment on why you do or don't like the chest strap.

Uncle Pug · Oct 25, 2002

...you don't need it.

SDAnderson · Oct 25, 2002

Don't need a chest strap, therefore I don't wear one. Some divers swear that they need them.

Steven

trymixdiver · Oct 25, 2002

I wore one at first when i got my BP but i noticed it just restricts my breathing and makes the experience less comfortable. So i cut the thing off

much happier now

Andy

detroit diver · Oct 25, 2002

I didn't even know they made a harness w/ a chest strap.

You definately don't need it. It's not coming off by accident!!

Rick Murchison · Oct 25, 2002

A friend (and top notch well known cave instructor) sometimes rigs one of quicklinks. Not needed as part of the harness, but he attaches special gear to it.
There's certainly no need for one as part of the harness's basic construction.
Rick

JT2 · Oct 25, 2002

Thaks for the input guys, I guess that's why the Halcyon rig doesn't come with one huh?

lanun · Oct 26, 2002

don't need a chest strap anymore.

used to use a chest strap many moons ago - had me a zeagle concept. in fact, i had to use it. i am not 'V' shaped, rather hawkeye pierce-like - narrow shoulders with big hips. the chest strap kept the bc from slipping off my shoulder, felt more snug, etc.

the bp/backplate is a much better fit, so i am not using it anymore.

large_diver · Oct 26, 2002

The first time you wear a properly adjusted harness, you'll understand.

I had the same question when I bought mine a few months ago(my old jacket BC had a chest strap). After having my harness adjusted during DIRF....it feels 110% secure. Adding a chest strap now would just make the rig feel more constrictive.

marco · Oct 27, 2002

I found with a single piece harness. ie DIR Halcyon style, I get sore under my arms if I am doing lots of diving.

I have just made myself a new harness, very similar to the diverite one:

http://www.diverite.com/products/bcd/plates.htm

Haven't had a chance to use it yet, but it does feel very comfortable above water fully kitted up. SHould have a chance to use it next weekend going for a weekend trip and doing 8 or so dives.

Do you use a chest strap w/BP&W or not, and why?

Please register or login

JT2

Guest

Uncle Pug

Swims with Orca

SDAnderson

Contributor

trymixdiver

Guest

detroit diver

Contributor

Rick Murchison

Trusty Shellback

JT2

Guest

lanun

Contributor

large_diver

Contributor

marco

Registered

Similar threads