ION Arc

ION produce an impressive array of wingfoil accessories, with a harness range comprising of four different models from almost kite-sized large backplates to integrated impact jackets. The Arc wing waist harness is their low-profile, minimalist offering, with two sizes available in small/medium and large/extra-large.

It’s a comfortable, super lightweight softshell which sits at only around six inches at the widest point of the back plate. The closure consists of a high-stretch elasticated Velcro waist belt to hold the harness in place which has an integrated tab for easy release. The load is taken by a smooth 25mm seatbelt-like webbing which has a standard plastic-adjustable buckle one side, and a bespoke metal quick-release buckle which slides through and locates securely. This also has a small tab to make entry and exit very quick, even with cold hands. The hook carries over from the rest of the ION harness range and slides up and down the front webbing between the buckles freely, giving a huge range of motion. The interior of the harness has a soft memory-foam-like feel that’s very comfortable and grips well to skin or a wetsuit. The good news is, although quite plush, it’s non water absorbent, so the harness doesn’t gain any weight when wet. At the rear there’s a long PU-tubed leash point which would accommodate either a wing or board leash. Tucked on the right side is a sturdy D ring behind some elasticated webbing.

For the less committed or part-time harness user, the Arc is a great accessory to have in the van for when you know conditions are strong and changeable and you could do with a little pressure taken off your arms when the squalls come through. We used it at a spot that has heavy current during the incoming tide, so getting back upwind to the wave can be a bit of a drag. Hooking in at this point made our whole session a breeze with much less arm fatigue. You barely notice you are wearing it, but if you need it, it’s going to extend your session. For someone wave focused it could be the harness of choice from the ION range, as there’s no restriction of movement. It’s a well built and premium feeling product that’s more substantial than most brands’ minimal harness offerings.