Tried out: Test of the GunSails Relay waist harness - just like on grandma's sofa

You could get the impression that GunSails have taken a plush cushion from grandma's sofa and simply sewn a strap and hook onto it, the Relay waist harness nestles so comfortably against your back. You could almost forget that you've already put the harness on when you go for a swim. The edges are well padded and the large contact surface adapts well to the body, even if the three-dimensional shape is manageable. The harness hook is secured with a single, wide strap, so the adjustment options are somewhat limited (the Trace model is very similar to the Relay and comes with two straps on each side).

GunSails' "Secure Lock" fastener can be easily released and reattached with a little belly pull, so the adjustment of the straps can be retained. The only weak point is the thin securing plate with a strap, which does not always slide reliably in front of the opening. You should always take an extra look to make sure that the hook is properly closed.

Space for manoeuvres and useful accessories

On the water, the GunSails Relay distributes the pull evenly over the entire, very large contact surface. You don't need to be afraid of large sails either, the Relay absorbs the forces of a fully powered 7.8 well without you having to make an appointment with a physiotherapist. At the same time, you never feel constricted by the harness; the harness is unimpressed by all manoeuvres and movements for normal mortals and the hook is at a medium height.

It is important to carefully adjust and adapt the relay before launching, because if the harness slides up a little, the neoprene strap will stick out from under the hook and can interfere with hooking in. However, this problem can be solved quickly and relatively cheaply with the separately available "Protection Pad", an additional cover for hooks with a wide support. With this small limitation, the Relay is a very comfortable and, with a price of 125.90 euros, also quite affordable waist harness!

More info at gunsails.com