Harness Strops ,stretchy or not?

graham

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i have only used stretchy harness strops a couple of times on other peoples boats. They seem more convenient and softer around your neck when not in use.

What are the pros and cons(if any)before I let the moths out of my wallet at the swindlers.
 

Santana379

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I know what you mean Graham - and that you don't actually tie them around your neck!

The webbing lifeline itself is not stretchy, but has a powerful bit of bungy running up the middle that reduces the length from 2m to about 1m when not under load.

I think they're great (all the crew have them on my boat) - as you say, when not required they are far less likely to snag on anything when looped behind your head. Very importantly they are less likely to snag on anything or trip you up when moving about on deck. They also create less of a problem if there's a few of you clipped on in the cockpit. As it happens they're also easier to stow without getting tangled.

Unfortunately they don't ping you back aboard if you fall over the side.

If they weren't perfectly safe I'm sure Crewsaver wouldn't make them.

One of the most important aspects of a lifeline though is the type of clip. Some can snag when passing along the jackstays/deck strops, and open, which of course rather defeats the object.

Looking at your signature, surely Lift Keelers can always get it up - provided their hydraulics are working properly.
 

Vara

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Have used them for the last five years and wouldn't go back.
It's like the difference between fixed seat belts and inertia reel,easier to use and therefore more likely to be used.
Can detect no downside.
 

DJE

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Somebody's got to put the other point of view. I have both sorts on board and always go for the non stretchy ones. I just find that they trip me up less on deck. I think it's because the strecthy ones tend to lift up the jackstay if you are standing or walking, then feet or other lines can go under it. Mind you I am particularly ham fisted with harness strops; I always get them the wrong side of the genoa sheets when changing sails and find I can't get back to the cockpit.
 
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