Posted: Mar 13, 2023 - 10:22 AM
This is a tough one. Comfort is the main thing. I have owned both types and one of my favorites was a sailboard harness which I shouldn't have sold with the boat. Whatever type you decide on, a spreader bar is more comfortable, and a keeper pin will reduce the chances of a dumb accident. I am currently using a half harness for the following reasons: Summertime where I live is super-hot and after I rig my boat I'm dying, so the last thing I want to do is put on something that makes me hotter. I'm never on the wire long enough at any one time to need the back support from a full harness. A half harness is much more stowable. If the wind lightens up a bit, I just roll it up and put it in the bag. Depending on your PFD and/or harness you may find the half harness more compatible with your PFD. A half harness will give your abbs some workout if you're prone to leaning way back in the puffs. If you're buying from a retail outlet, try them on, especially if they have a line somewhere where you can suspend yourself and see how it really feels with your full weight on it. One last thing, if money is no object, consider a full harness PFD combination, especially if you think you'll ever do some serious racing.
--
Bill Townsend
G-Cat 5.0
Sarasota
--