which harness?

We've only used the wide rings, and I suspect that it actually works best with those as they probably centre automatically.

Possibly not suitable for the huge Hobie cat things, but you never know.

Both my crews (aren't I the lucky one?) opted for Banks skiff-style harnesses and seem to like them.

One bonus with the Banks is that you can order it with a 'flush hook' which has two big advantages:

a) greatly reduced risk of entanglement - doesn't hook onto shrouds or ropes, and

b) doesn't gouge your hull or deck when they're climbing about on it, e.g. during a capsize.

We were a bit concerned it would be slower to use, but that doesn't seem to be the case provided the hook is adequately spaced from the backing material.

This is the spreader bar version on my old harness (not a Banks), but there are various models.

It's whatever works for you. I have an ancient crewsaver - fits me like a glove and I have trimmed all the excess straps. Have since tried P&B nappy and magic marine but it's not the same (for me). You have just got to feel like the hook is just an extension of your body. I like adjustables cos I when a nappy is hooked on it takes the hook away from your belly-button. Just a bit but too much for me. I like my speader bar cranked right into my gut.

Try loads on. If is feels and acts like second skin then it's the right one.

Thanks for the thoughts - seems like trying before you buy is the best option.

The internet is a great way of browsing and saves having to do any of the dreaded shopping but it looks like it'll be the only way to be sure it's comfortable.