ION Rival 2024

Maintaining your ION Rival harness

Always rinse your harness with fresh water after use in salt water. Rinse it thoroughly with cold or lukewarm water to remove salt, sand and sweat, which can break down the material over time. Never use a washing machine, tumble dryer, chemical cleaners or a stiff brush, as these can damage the neoprene, foam and buckles.

Dry your harness by hanging it up or laying it flat in a cool, well-ventilated place. Avoid direct sunlight, heat sources such as radiators, and tumble drying, as both UV light and heat make neoprene and foam brittle. Let your harness dry completely before putting it away to prevent mold and odors.

Store your harness rolled up or flat in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Don’t fold it sharply over the spreader bar or place heavy objects on top of it, as this can cause permanent creases in the material. Check the buckles, straps and hook regularly for wear, and replace worn parts before heading out on the water again.

What is the ION Rival for windsurfing?

The ION Rival is a softshell waist harness for windsurfing with a very soft shell (Flex Index 4). It’s designed to be comfortable and lightweight, and is suitable for beginner, intermediate, and experienced riders.

Are the spreader bar and hook included?

Yes, the harness comes as a complete set with a Spectre Bar spreader bar, including a windsurf hook, so you can get straight out on the water.

How do I choose the right size?

Choose a size based on your waist measurement - ION has detailed size charts for each harness. If you’re between sizes, measure your waist and compare it with the chart, or contact us for advice.

How soft is the Rival’s shell?

The Rival has a Flex Index of 4 on ION’s scale from 1 to 20, which means the shell is very soft. This provides high comfort and good freedom of movement, especially for wave and freestyle.

What materials is the harness made of?

The harness is made primarily of neoprene with EVA on the inside, as well as polyester and ethylene-vinyl acetate in its construction. The elastic HD_Foam padding provides comfort without absorbing water.

How does the harness fit my body?

The inner Flex_Belt closure follows the rider’s individual anatomy and provides a snug, comfortable fit. The PVC buckles make it easy to fine-tune the harness while you’re out.

How do I care for the harness?

Rinse the harness in fresh water after every session, let it dry in the shade, and store it flat or rolled up in a dry place. Avoid washing machines, direct sunlight, and heat sources, which can damage the neoprene.