Crotch Straps

[requiem]

I had the Crewsaver double straps for a while, until one day I had left them at home and ended up improvising with a bit of wider webbing. In my experience the double straps are too-easily caught on things as they go slack when bending or sitting, and the excess webbing gets in the way. For the latter one could simply trim them to size, but the former is not so easily solved.

I found with a single, wider strap there was no discomfort and no issues with excess slack catching on things.

 

[wonkywinch]

 

[Snowgoose-1]

On Saturday, I tested my dinghy sailing buoyancy aid with a couple of high-speed downwind capsizes.
No need for a crotch strap on a waistcoat-style BA.

Years ago, I had a Baltic auto LJ which worked fine without a crotch strap.
The main 'belt' was around the waist.
LJs have evolved into a 'man bra' with a chest strap, so the crotch strap is a necessary part of it, but looks like a half-baked afterthought.

I just wear the waistcoat bouncy aid when using the tender. I feel that I would be more likely to swim to the shore. Also, less chance of getting snagged when getting on/off the mother ship which is a critical time.

 

[fisherman]

My friend spent 40 mins in the sea when he sank. He is large, and the lifejacket formed a cleavage which held water enough to cover his mouth, so he was continually blowing it clear. So good idea to make sure the crotch strap works I think.