Power Kite Forum

Waist harness sizing?

IFlyKites - 19-8-2016 at 11:46 AM

Looking at getting a waist harness for landboarding as my Ozone SB digs too much when being lifted. I need something that can give me more maneuverability to do tricks than a seat harness, (waist harness duh..)

I have a 34 inch waist and having a difficult time choosing between a medium or large. Generally though, is getting a size smaller than what I think, a better choice? Looking at an Ion Apex, the sizing on their website shows 30-33 inches. Would that suffice? Or does that extra inch/inch and a half bump it up a size to a large?

Any opinions would be appreciated!

rtz - 19-8-2016 at 11:54 AM

You might call up Jeff Howard at kiteboarding.com and chat with him on harness fitment.

IFlyKites - 19-8-2016 at 03:52 PM

Quote: Originally posted by rtz  
You might call up Jeff Howard at kiteboarding.com and chat with him on harness fitment.


Thanks, I'll try emailing him. Generally though, waist harnesses marketed for water use can still be used comfortably for land right? Just want a nice, light harness that won't slide up, (do some tend to slide more than others or does is it involve fit?)

I might try to go to a local kitesurfing shop and try some on. Probably my best bet.

Bladerunner - 19-8-2016 at 05:02 PM

You can try on a number of harnesses at airtimeboardsports.com . Philippe has a hanging hook to try them out proper. Philippe thinks like a kite boarder and won't understand why you NEED to test the harness pulling more straight up. northshoreboardsports.com will also have harnesses you can try.

My Mystic harness is a combination seat or waist harness. I wanted the option having had a waist harness 1st but stuck with seat mode. I am not clear on how the seat part restricts you? Unless it is just straps? My harness has the handle pass safety running across the back etc. .

You NEED to cinch your waist harness extremely tight. You are welcome to try my old Naish waist harness to give waist a real world test.

skimtwashington - 20-8-2016 at 10:34 AM


If sizing says '30-33' and you are a 34".....and if a 33" waist would be maxing it out(if company sizing is correct)...? You likely need a Large.

Sometimes you can't even trust manufacturers sizing..better to try or even ask about a brand/model... from those that have used... just like your doing here on this PKF post.

Ex: I was told from others that the Dakine Harnesses of past tended to run a bit small- and they were right...(now too?)....

Also consider a little extra room needed for wearing COLD WEATHER CLOTHING....or if you gain little weight:lol:

abkayak - 21-8-2016 at 08:40 AM

what works 3 seasons may not work the 4th
I fly w/ a medium waist and winter clothes just demand a different harness entirely
Should be expected