... After 2 sessions in a row my feet already have holes in them on top of my big toes. I honestly reckon the stock Drake/starboard footstraps with the iSonics are the most uncomfortable footstraps ever made. I've put up with it for a few seasons now. On my wave boards i have the big chunky plush fellas, but I'm not keen for them on my slalom boards. Was thinking something with less wet weight.
A quick google (& SB) search came up with these threads:www.seabreeze.com.au/forums/Windsurfing/Review/footstraps/
www.iwindsurf.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=12186&postdays=0&postorder=asc&start=20&sid=453407b7ec221c9c723eac904bde1465
What are peoples thoughts & recommendations on thinner lighter footstraps eg Dakine Contour's, X-lites etc.
Any that are affordable? Will be looking to kit out 2 iSonics so 8 footstraps in total.
I reckon the Drake ones are fine, and hated the DaKine thin ones so maybe I am different lol
First stop IMO is the Flying Objects ones that are way thicker and more padded. Really, could not see it being more than 100g heavier so have a wee before sailing. :)
I tried the Dakine contour on my fsw last season and they chopped my feet up after a couple of hours, I personally just prefer standard type JP or Tabou straps.
Anyone who is replacing stock straps like Drake when they are new..... I am after some for my experiment boards.
Been using these for about a month now (Dakine X-Lace), Great on my wave board but not sure how you'd like them for slalom but I don't see why they would be good. Easy to adjust and like slipping your feet into a pillow, nice secure connection but still easy to slip out when you eat it big time. Down side is the cost....ouch!
^^ nup rather have the feel of the board when turning (surgeons don't wear gardening gloves do they)
plus booties stick to the strap and footpad, and increase ankle injuries greatly.
No thanks
I used to work for a company (Many Years ago) that made foot straps and harness. Irish company that supplied lots of UK brands Lightwave, Typhoon, etc etc. One things for sure, like shoes one size don't fit all. Its tricky long skinny feet, short fat feet, weird knobbly feet. Some people like fanatic straps I hated them. I like Pryde ones. You got to try a few types to find a good fit. Like shoes they also need to bed in. When I find a style I like I buy a fair few and keep spares and extras for future boards. eBay is good as they are small and easy to post.
Pete.
Thanks for the replies everyone, I hate booties so will try to avoid where possible. I'll try some slim ones that are shape to cover more of the foot and if no good will end up with thick plush padded ones. Cheers.
I find the hot sail ones are good too and dakine.
I had the same problem with the standard starboard ones. The fanatic, jp and Patrik standard straps are comfy.
i have a set of these on a board www.mb-fins.com/default.asp find them comfy and super light weight. No on water adjusting is a drawback, and cost.
Have some of these to try as a cheaper version, not exactly the same but I think will be ok.
www.ebay.com.au/itm/Unifiber-footstrap-ultra-light-regular-windsurfing-/281477255626?pt=AU_Sport_Surfing&hash=item41895a11ca