Release yourself in seconds from Zhik's T3 Trapeze Harness
by Liz Rushall 18 Feb 2019 06:00 PST
2-3 March 2019
On sale at the RYA Dinghy Show on Pinnell & Bax and the Sailing Chandlery/Zhik Stand
At the October 2018 World Sailing Conference, it was agreed that quick release trapeze harnesses will become mandatory by 2023. See for yourself how to pop out of the new Zhik T3 trapeze harness, in a matter of seconds.
Making its UK debut at the RYA Dinghy Show, the T3 Harness has a unique Velcro and ripcord system (patent pending). The harness can be ejected from the body in two quick simple steps. A firm, direct pull on the two high-vis ripcord grab tabs, instantly breaks the hold of the secure Velcro waist band. A quick unclick of the chest buckle and the harness falls away from the body within seconds.
Zhik recognises that in an entrapment situation it is not just the trapeze hook which can get caught. The T3 Harness ensures sailors can rapidly get free of the entire harness in an emergency situation, such as a bad capsize. Compared with the T2 harness, the speed of harness ejection is reduced from around ten seconds to just under 3 seconds, enabling you to swim free. Potentially, these are crucial seconds if you are trapped in the water.
Designed with input from Zhik's team of elite dinghy sailors, the T3 offers enhanced fit, support and protection too. The secure double Velcro waist closure system and an adjustable lumbar support pad both offer trapeze sailors excellent close-fitting support around the pelvis and lower back. This snug and secure fit also keeps your hook in close contact with your body.
The hook system is interchangeable, so you can switch in your preferred type of trapeze hook. The harness is compatible with the Allen Keyball trapeze hook system too.
Zhik's Kollition impact protection spine pad can be fitted inside the harness, to protect you from back injury during a high-speed stop. Making it ideal for high performance dinghy and catamaran sailors. The T3's clean, streamlined design ensures there are no buckles or lacing eyes in your lap, which can catch or impinge on your movement around the boat, or get caught on anything else.
Made from a robust, perforated 600 denier nylon for quick water drainage from spray, the mesh construction also increases air flow to keep you cool. The addition of a ZhikTex II reinforced seat panel both protects from wear, plus it adds some grip on the side decks too.
RRP: £199.95
The T3 Harness will be available for retail at the RYA Dinghy Show on the Sailing Chandlery/Zhik (F14-16) and Pinnell & Bax stand B(48).