Quick release harnesses mandatory

As Jim notes, when you have two components coming together there is always a risk that they wouldnt release in certain conditions. The ISO has a distinct offset load release test which requires the mechanism to detach when a force is applied from around the body.

The risk of entrapment has been in the sport for a while and it is a constant factor when looking at fatalities within sailing over a period of time.

Originally posted by ExBas Is that it would need to comply with ISO 10862 which is the standard for quick release trapeze harnesses. Seems logical right? Effectively the standard was championed by the RYA following a number of fatalities in the UK around 2009/2010. It covers issues in use around entrapment scenarios that items like the keyball system don't cater for. I've tested the keyball system and it can still lead to an entrapment scenario and isn't fool proof. In fairness, neither is the ISO but the ISO standard is based on learnings from, sadly, real life events

It's worth understanding the ISO and governing bodies like RYA have a job to do in educating here. The Zhik product by the looks of it doesn't comply with the ISO, so it's a challenge for the uneducated buyer to wade through marketing bullshxt and what is true.

I sell and have sold harnesses for a living for many years, and the quick release thing has come and gone quite frequently. Obviously in my other world there is less to get entangled with and in some areas (kiting) coming adrift from the harness could be very costly to both life, limb and equipment as has occurred to one particular new entry to the harness market Ride Engine who have failed spectacularly costing riders equipment as well as a long swim.

I chose this not because it's quick release, it really isn't and if it does indeed comply with this ISO thing your referring to then you'd better go back to the drawing board. It relies on twin yellow release strips that rip the velcro to remove the spreader bar, but that doesn't get you out of the harness, and in panic mode, maybe upside down, you'd still have to release the shoulder strap to clear it, so it's three release points, not one which is usually what I'd expect from a true QR device. It comes with a pretty standard spreader hook dinghy old style, nothing special. Although I was quite impressed with the Allen cock and ball system, it locks you into one boat with that harness, so no boat hopping as I'm prone to on occasion. The harness is quite comfy, it's got move aroundable lumbar support, and neo stretchy butt support so it'll do for now.
Other than that I don't mind the 'Zhik' brand imagery it's not too knaff like most things dinghy, visually it's not too deadly uncool and the buckle on my DaKine Trap also a QR, has taken to releasing itself of late which is quite tedious especially to one not quite 100% comfortable flying by wire.

Sorry. Existing rule. Anyone find the new rule?