I bought a 2nd hand Mystic X harness 2 years ago at Windsurfing Perth for 200 dollars for windsurfing.

I did a custom job to make the hook slide so bar is connected by only the top straps now. Changed the bar to a shorter one to increase the slide. Added leg straps to stop it coming up.

Easily the best harness I've ever used.

Zero back discomfort, so incredibly comfortable.

Tried to go back to my Flying Objects Transit for a period but not even close.

I rode a friend's Ion Rave today for a good 3-4 hours. It really liked it. That said, I think I'm going to give the Mystic Majestic a chance. I like the non-velcro buckle on the ION. It's a lot like the one on the Dakines, but smaller. But I see some online with plastic buckles, so I don't know if they've changed it. I'm not too sure about the bungee centering hook. I sorta works, but I think it may be better not having that features... more like Mystic Majestic.

Anyone using a windsurfing or kitesurfing harness with a winging spreader bar?

I got the Mystic Stage harness and its exactly what I've been looking for. A little heavier than some of the minimal options, but a lot more supportive. The closure system is the same as the majestic (I think the whole spreader bar is the same). Totally non water absorbent. Doesn't shift around. Hook slides well out of the way for paddling. Provides the perfect balance of support without being restrictive at all. At $120 USD, price is very good for the quality too.

Ive had the Ride Engine (didn't like the closure system and it was pretty flimsy) and the Ion Arc (pretty good, but the hook slider was very flimsy and loosened under tension and the harness always twisted around me) and Manera Leash belt (good for surfing if you are minimally hooking in, but very minimalistic/basic with no support and the leash attachment points are awkward). Tried the Majestic, but found it very restrictive and overkill in the support. The Stage is definitely the best option I've found.

Only minor complaint is that there isnt a handlepass slider on the back (thats where I attach my wing leash), but there are attachment points and I looped a piece of cord back there and it works fine. The Mystic PVC covered handlepass slider accessory is too long.

FYI, I'm a ~31" waist and found the Mystic Majestic pretty tight. The M stage fits me perfectly.

I feel like there aren't a lot of "middle ground" harnesses that are supportive enough for harnessed riding but give good freedom to move. Options are either too structured and restrictive (Majestic) or streamlined (Manera wing belt). This middle ground is a great option for most of the riders out there who want the option of hooking in, but don't want to be restricted.

Velocicraptor said..

FYI, I'm a ~31" waist and found the Mystic Majestic pretty tight. The M stage fits me perfectly.

I'm about to pull the trigger on the Mystic Stage for all the reasons you cite...I'm about the same size waist, but wear an impact vest (and that over a 5mil suit now in early spring)...are you wearing anything under that M Stage?

kook123 said..

Velocicraptor said..

FYI, I'm a ~31" waist and found the Mystic Majestic pretty tight. The M stage fits me perfectly.

I'm about to pull the trigger on the Mystic Stage for all the reasons you cite...I'm about the same size waist, but wear an impact vest (and that over a 5mil suit now in early spring)...are you wearing anything under that M Stage?

I wear the same and it fits fine. Still very happy with it.