Karl Lagerfeld once said: "If you wear jogging bottoms, you've lost control of your life!" In this respect, our statement that the ION Rival is a pair of jogging trousers turned trapeze could also be interpreted negatively - which would be inappropriate in this case. One thing is certain: The Rival is the softest model in the ION range - and is available for 239.99 euros in two colour variants and in sizes XS/S/M/L and XL (>> e.g. here ). The Rival is attached using stretch Velcro, which ensures a firm hold on the torso. The centrepiece is the wide hook plate, known internally as the Spectre Bar.
After we have have already presented We were able to try out the harness during the big test on Tobago. The test was convincing across the board. The fastener looks extremely solid, is easy to hook in and is so well geared that opening and closing it is no problem even with clammy fingers. The plate distributes forces ideally. Although the Rival has a soft cover, there were no annoying pressure points, at least in wave and freestyle use: The harness fits snugly and is also particularly soft at the edges.
It goes without saying that a hard-shell harness can relieve the back even better. Nevertheless, the Rival offers really good comfort and, above all, unlimited freedom of movement.
Surf summary of the ION Rival harness:
Jogging bottoms are the most comfortable items of clothing after all - the ION Rival is therefore suitable for anyone looking for a particularly snug hip harness for waves and freestyle. Only those who often hang on large freeride or freerace sails should tend towards a harder model with better back support.
