Spreader Bar pad thoughts

[7176]

Hello, looking for input from those whom are using spreader bar pads. I'm considering purchasing one for my Dakine T waist harness. I don't need a spreader bar but from what I've seen you have to purchase both bar and pad.
I'm wondering if it adds stability and comfort
Thanks[

[manuel]

Can you mock something up to see if you like it?
Maybe borrow someone else's?
It might be cheaper to get another harness.
I went to ION from Dakine and really like the positive and firm control from the bar/pad combo.

[nw30]

The only time you'll feel the pad is when you're not using the harness while wearing it, so I've never understood the pad.

[manuel]

I'm surprised! The pad helps with any upward twist from the bar. Also, it helps increase core body contact surface and facilitate the transfer of forces.

[dllee]

Is it needed?
Extra float, good thing.
Walking around looking cool, good thing.
Hooked in, the bar get's pulled away from the body, so there's air space. If you freeze from the confection, good thing.
Another piece of EQ to fiddle with, that's up to you.

[7176]

Thanks for the replies. Manuel, the harness is relatively new and I like it. I did
try a 10" bar/pad and tho it was a bit small for my XL harness I had a tough time seeing how it would give the advantages you mention. I did not use it sailing. The new Dakine T series harnesses now come with the pad. Your experience may have to do with the ION harness. They are very nice.
Zirtaeb, I wish I knew that the pad would have given me the "cool" look when I was in high school. Sadly that period of my life is a mere fleck in my rear view mirror . Thanks again to all for your time you took to reply. I appreciate it.

[manuel]

I use mine completely loose at the elastic belts but really tight at the bar. This makes a positive and really firm control with the bar, and in the same time, it's also non self tightening and can rotate slightly and fall back down without issues.

There's no room between pad and belly under load, I prefer it that way, I like to be able to apply downward pressure through my lines, I use my hands the least as possible. The pad lets me do this. Also, I can unhook with less travel. The Dakine being able to slide has lots of twist and elasticity through the bar strap and therefore is not so efficient at transferring power.

Honestly, my ION harness has been one of the best purchases ever along with my Ezzy sail !

[coachg]

I have felt no difference between my harness with a spreader bar pad & the one without. I got the spreader bar pad for the kite knife that Velcros in as a safety issue because there are plenty of kite sailors where I sail & the need to cut kite lines on the water is a definite must.

Coachg

[isobars]

[westender]