In Focus: 2021 ION Water Harness Collection
Features / Thu 18th Feb, 2021 @ 9:00 am
More exciting news from the kiteboarding industry, the release of the 2021 ION Water harness collection! A good harness is like a good pair of shoes, you don’t realise how important it is until you go for a long walk – or a long kite, in this case! A critical part of your kit, and one that the team at ION has taken seriously. ION has developed a robust selection of harnesses for each and every style of rider, from the seat harness users to the soft-shell society, to riders who live and die by the hard-shell. With new innovations every year, the 2021 release from ION is no different. We’ve got the intel on all of the new harnesses in the range right here!
In terms of harnesses, ION is looking forward to offering their established range of Curv harnesses, known for their ultimate lightness. This year the product department focussed on developing the modularity of the harness range. Adding the all-new Quicklock hook for riders who kite hooked-in most of the time, ION improves security by preventing the chicken loop from releasing the kite by accident. Another approach in terms of lightness and a sleek design can be found in the new Spectre Bar – the stiff spreader bar provides a direct feeling from the kite while maintaining freedom of movement thanks to flexible side flaps made from Curv material.
Men’s Harnesses
ION Apex Curv 13 Select
The Apex Curv 13 Select is by far the lightest and most durable hardshell harness on the market featuring ION’s revolutionary thermal composite Curv material. Thanks to high-end add-ons like Double-D Buckles and the Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0, the Select level stands out from the crowd. With a flex index of 13, all loads are distributed perfectly through its rigid 3D pre-shaped center part. Together with the high outline, this medium-rigid to stiff hardshell harness offers all the comfort any dedicated kiter could wish for. Flexible side parts allow the rider to move and twist freely. Additionally, inside EVA prevents the harness from riding up while non-water absorbent Hyper_foam contributes to outstanding comfort for extra-long water action. ION’s brand-new Spectre Bar completes this premium harness package. Just like the harness, the spreader bar features only high-tech materials, lightness, and a slim design. The spreader bar comes with an aluminium hook.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Inside EVA EVA on the inside prevents the harness from riding up and rotating.
- Spectre Bar / Kite hook ION‘s latest innovation in spreader bar technology. Incredible flexibility and a slim outline. Including a lightweight aluminium hook.
- Ultra-lightweight Thanks to its light construction combined with a clever mix of materials, this harness ranks as the most durable and lightweight hard shell on the market.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/apex-curv-13-select/
ION Apex Curv 13
The Apex Curv 13 features ION’s revolutionary thermal composite Curv material known for its light weight and great durability. With a flex index of 13, all loads are distributed perfectly through its stiff 3D pre-shaped center part. Together with the high outline, this medium-stiff to stiff harness supports the rider exactly where needed. Flexible side parts allow great freedom of movement for radical moves on the water. The Apex Curv 13 was also equipped with ION’s popular C_bar 3.0 and Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0. The C_Bar 3.0 includes a dyneema webbing slider and comes without hook – allowing you to choose between ION’s hook options to fit your personal preferences. The hook must be purchased separately.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Inside EVA EVA on the inside prevents the harness from riding up and rotating.
- Lightweight Light but durable hybrid construction combined with a clever mix of materials.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/apex-curv-13/
ION Apex 8
The Apex 8 comes with a partly Curv shell. Its high outline provides optimal back support thanks to a larger area. The design also features controlled rigidity in the center with flexible side parts, resulting in a perfectly balanced harness of support and freedom of movement. With a flex index of 8, it is one of the medium-rigid models of ION’s harness range and turns out to be a real all-around talent. The Apex 8 comes with ION’s C_Bar 2.0 which already includes the stainless steel kite hook.
Features
- Partly Curv Partly molded Curv composite material with strong back support and flexible sideparts.
- Inside EVA EVA on the inside prevents the harness from riding up and rotating.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/apex-8/
ION Riot Curv 18 Select AH
The Riot Curv 18 Select is by far the lightest and most durable hardshell harness on the market featuring ION’s revolutionary thermal composite Curv material. Aaron Hadlow’s signature model is the stiffest in ION’s range and the choice of performance-oriented riders. Thanks to high-end add-ons like Double-D Buckles and the Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0, the Select level stands out from the crowd. Together with the lower cut outline, this pro choice offers great freedom of movement, further enhanced by the flexible side parts. Additionally on the inside, EVA cushioning prevents the harness from riding up while water-repellent Hyper_foam contributes to outstanding performance for extra-long water action. ION’s brand-new Spectre Bar completes this premium harness package. Just like the harness, the spreader bar features only high-tech materials, lightness, and a slim design. The spreader bar comes with an aluminium hook.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Inside EVA EVA on the inside prevents the harness from riding up and rotating.
- Spectre Bar / Kite hook ION‘s latest innovation in spreader bar technology. Incredible flexibility and a slim outline. Including a lightweight aluminium hook.
- Ultra lightweight Thanks to its light construction combined with a clever mix of materials, this harness ranks as the most durable and lightweight hard shell on the market.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/riot-curv-18-select-ah/
ION Riot Curv 14 Select
The Riot Curv 14 Select is by far the lightest and most durable hardshell harness on the market featuring ION’s revolutionary thermal composite CURV material. Thanks to high-end add-ons like Double-D Buckles and the Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0, the Select level stands out from the crowd. With a flex index of 14, all loads are distributed perfectly through its rigid 3D pre-shaped center part. Together with the lower cut outline, this medium-rigid to rigid harness offers great freedom of movement, further enhanced by the flexible side parts. Additionally on the inside, a silicone print prevents the harness from riding up while water-repellent Hyper_foam contributes to outstanding performance for extra-long water action. ION’s brand-new Spectre Bar completes this premium harness package. Just like the harness, the spreader bar features only high-tech materials, lightness, and a slim design. The spreader bar comes with an aluminium hook.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Silicon_Print The silicone increases friction, thereby keeping the harness in place.
- Spectre Bar / Kite hook ION‘s latest innovation in spreader bar technology. Incredible flexibility and a slim outline. Including a lightweight aluminium hook.
- Ultra lightweight Thanks to its light construction combined with a clever mix of materials, this harness ranks as the most durable and lightweight hard shell on the market.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/riot-curv-14-select/
ION Riot Curv 14
The Riot Curv 14 features ION’s revolutionary thermal composite CURV material known for its light weight and great durability. Besides this, the Riot Curv 14 is fully molded and offers an outstandingly light yet incredibly robust harness construction. With a flex index of 14, it is one of the medium-stiff to stiff models in ION’s product range. All loads are distributed perfectly through its stiff 3D pre-shaped center part. Together with the low outline, this medium-stiff to stiff harness offers great freedom of movement, further enhanced through the flexible side parts. On top, the Riot Curv 14 was equipped with ION’s popular C_bar 3.0 and Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0. The C_Bar 3.0 includes a dyneema webbing slider and comes without hook – allowing you to choose between ION’s hook options to fit your personal preferences. The hook must be purchased separately.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Silicon_Print The silicone increases friction, thereby keeping the harness in place.
- Lightweight Light but durable hybrid construction combined with a clever mix of materials.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/riot-curv-14/
ION Riot 9
Delivering outstanding performance, the Riot 9 represents the perfect match for experienced riders. The low outline offers more freedom of movement than ever before. Moreover, Hyper_Foam guarantees a smooth ride every day, creating the ultimate shredding companion. With a flex index of 9 and partly Curv shell, this harness is one of the medium-stiff items in ION’s product range. The Riot 9 comes with ION’s C_Bar 2.0 which already includes the stainless steel kite hook.
Features
- Partly Curv Partly molded Curv composite material with strong back support and flexible sideparts.
- Silicon_Print The silicone increases friction, thereby keeping the harness in place.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/riot-9/
ION Axxis Kite 4 Soft Shell Harness
The Axxis Kite 4 represents a top quality, super-stylish harness. Even better, packed with impressive state-of-the-art features and a great overall performance, the AXXIS comes at a very appealing price! The optional seat extension provides you with comfort and support and prevents the harness from riding up. With a flex index of 4, the Axxis Kite is one of the softest harnesses in the range. The harness comes with ION’s C_Bar and stainless steel kite hook.
Features
- Seat_Extension Optional Velcro attachable seat part prevents the harness from riding up.
- Fully_Moulded EVA Complete mould, no water absorption.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/axxis-4/
ION Radar Kite Seat Harness
The RADAR’s design is so perfect it fits like a second skin. This premium seat harness has been refined from last year’s model with a CURV plate for even more overall comfort and better load distribution. The revised ergonomic leg straps, inspired by the technology of climbing harnesses, have been developed to enable fantastic freedom of movement and to eliminate any pressure points. The Radar comes with ION’s C_Bar 2.0 which already includes the stainless steel kite hook.
Features
- Partly Curv Partly molded Curv composite material with strong back support and flexible sideparts.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-seat-harnesses/radar/
ION B2 Kite Seat Harness
The B2 is where beachwear and function meet to create a unique product. Many riders embrace the feeling of a seat harness but are not always comfortable with ‘that look’. The B2 is the perfect solution! When creating this harness, we made sure it stylishly offered all the benefits of a seat harness in a high-performance package. This year the B2 comes in a trendy colorway and features improved leg straps and shorts. The B2 comes with ION’s C_Bar 2.0 which already includes the stainless steel kite hook.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-seat-harnesses/b2/
ION Echo Kite Seat Harness
The ECHO is an exceptionally comfortable seat harness that cannot fail to impress, offering not only great support but also a design that makes it an outstanding all-rounder with an attractive price tag! The harness comes with ION’s C_Bar and stainless steel kite hook.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/men/harnesses/kite-seat-harnesses/echo/
Women’s Harnesses
ION Nova Curv Select 10
The Nova Curv 10 Select is by far the lightest and most durable hardshell harness on the market featuring ION’s revolutionary thermal composite Curv material. Thanks to high-end add-ons like Double-D Buckles and the Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0, the Select level stands out from the crowd. With a flex index of 10, all loads are distributed perfectly through its rigid 3D pre-shaped center part. Together with the high outline, this medium-rigid to stiff hardshell harness offers all the comfort any dedicated kiter could wish for. Flexible side parts allow the rider to move and twist freely. Additionally, inside EVA prevents the harness from riding up while non-water absorbent Hyper_foam contributes to outstanding comfort for extra-long water action. ION’s brand-new Spectre Bar completes this premium harness package. Just like the harness, the spreader bar features only high-tech materials, lightness, and a slim design. The spreader bar comes with an aluminium hook.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Inside EVA EVA on the inside prevents the harness from riding up and rotating.
- Spectre Bar / Kite hook ION‘s latest innovation in spreader bar technology. Incredible flexibility and a slim outline. Including a lightweight aluminium hook.
- Ultra lightweight Thanks to its light construction combined with a clever mix of materials, this harness ranks as the most durable and lightweight hard shell on the market.
- Silicon_Print The silicone increases friction, thereby keeping the harness in place.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/nova-curv-10-select/
ION Nova Curv 10
The Nova Curv 10 features ION’s revolutionary thermal composite Curv material known for its light weight and great durability. With a flex index of 10, all loads are distributed perfectly through its stiff 3D pre-shaped center part. Together with the high outline, this medium-stiff harness supports the rider exactly where needed. Flexible side parts allow great freedom of movement for radical moves on the water. Additionally, EVA inside prevents the harness from riding up. On top, the Nova Curv 10 is equipped with ION’s popular C_bar 3.0 and Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0. The C_Bar 3.0 includes a dyneema webbing slider and comes without hook – allowing you to buy your preferred hook option seperately.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Inside EVA EVA on the inside prevents the harness from riding up and rotating.
- Silicon_Print The silicone increases friction, thereby keeping the harness in place.
- Lightweight Light but durable hybrid construction combined with a clever mix of materials.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/nova-curv-10/
ION Nova 6
The Nova 6 is an advancement of ION’s best seller and convinces with ION’s proven harness design. The high outline provides optimal back support. Additionally, the design features controlled stiffness in the center with flexible side parts, resulting in a perfectly balanced harness. With a flex index of 6, it is one of the softer models in ION’s product range and turns out to be a real all-around talent. The Nova 6 comes with ION’s C_Bar 2.0 which already includes the stainless steel kite hook.
Features
- Fully_Moulded EVA Complete mould, no water absorption
- Inside EVA EVA on the inside prevents the harness from riding up and rotating.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/nova-6/
ION Sol Curv 11
The Sol Curv 11 features ION’s revolutionary thermal composite CURV material known for its light weight and great durability. It offers an outstandingly light yet incredibly robust harness construction. With a flex index of 11, it is one of the medium-stiff to stiff models in ION’s product range. All loads are distributed perfectly through its stiff 3D pre-shaped center part. Together with the low outline, this medium-stiff harness offers great freedom of movement, further enhanced by the flexible side parts. On top, the Sol Curv 11 is equipped with ION’s popular C_bar 3.0 and Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0. The C_Bar 3.0 comes without the hook – therefore you can choose between ION’s hook options to fit your personal preferences. The hook must be purchased separately.
Features
- Curv_Spine 3D molded spine made of tried and tested Curv for extra ergonomic back support.
- Lightweight Light but durable hybrid construction combined with a clever mix of materials.
- Downforce Enables twisting motions but prevents the harness from riding up
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/sol-curv-11/
ION Sol 7
Delivering outstanding performance, the Sol 7 represents the perfect match for experienced riders. The low outline offers more freedom of movement than ever before. Moreover, Hyper_Foam guarantees a smooth ride every day, creating the ultimate shredding companion. With a flex index of 7, this harness is one of the medium-soft to soft items in ION’s product range. The Sol 7 comes with ION’s C_Bar 2.0 which already includes the stainless steel kite hook.
Features
- Fully_Moulded EVA Complete mould, no water absorption
- Downforce Enables twisting motions but prevents the harness from riding up
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/sol-7/
ION Vega Seat Harness
The VEGA has been designed specially for women. The highly functional 3D shape guarantees superb comfort and support and fits like a second skin. Drawing inspiration from climbing harnesses, we’ve created ergonomically shaped leg straps to ensure fantastic freedom of movement. The harness comes with ION’s C_Bar and stainless steel kite hook.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-seat-harnesses/vega/
Other Harnesses
ION Ripper Kite 2 Soft Shell Youth Harness
The RIPPER KITE 2 is ideal for up-and-coming riders looking for a supportive harness with all the top features. Its versatile nature ensures that kids get all the confidence-boosting features they deserve at a highly affordable price. The optional seat extension provides you with comfort and prevents the harness from riding up. With a flex index of 2, the RIPPER is a very soft harness with a low outline, absolutely perfect for young shredders.
Features Seat_Extension, Optional Velcro attachable seat part prevents the harness from riding up.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/ripper-2/
ION Sonar Race/Foil Kite Seat Harness
ION’s new Sonar harness is a further development of the Radar. It is especially tailored to the needs of racing and foiling. Characteristically, it features a low profile which generates a low center of load transmission. The integrated Curv plate improves force distribution. The revised ergonomic leg straps, inspired by the technology of climbing harnesses, have been developed to enable fantastic freedom of movement and to eliminate any pressure points. The Sonar comes with ION’s C_Bar 2.0 which already includes the stainless steel kite hook.
Features
- Partly Curv Partly molded Curv composite material with strong back support and flexible sideparts.
- Lightweight Light but durable hybrid construction combined with a clever mix of materials.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-seat-harnesses/sonar/
Harness Hooks & Accessories
Spectre Bar
The SPECTRE-Bar is ION’s latest innovation in spreader bar technology. It features a slim outline and is made from forged carbon C30 which makes it also incredibly light. Thanks to the bar’s stiff properties, it provides direct feedback. A super-slim EVA pad minimizes pressure points so you can focus only on your riding. Integrated Spectre Flaps on each side made out of Curv material prevent twisting of the bar while still following your movements. The tension lever system guarantees an easy on and off of the harness without having to change the webbings. The Spectre Bar comes with an aluminum kitesurf hook. ION offers a modular hook system which means you can also change the hook on the fly if you buy one of the other hook options – choose between stainless steel, the all-new Quicklock hook or the Dyneema webbing slider as alternatives for the aluminium hook.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/spareparts/spectre-bar-kitesurf-hook/
Quicklock Hook
The lightweight aluminum Quicklock hook is ION’s newest revolutionary take on Kite hooks. The construction offers single-handed hook-in and eliminates the risk of the chicken dick slipping out and releasing the kite by accident.
https://www.ion-products.com/quicklock-hook/
C Bar 3.0 Slider
Comfort, light weight, and a sleek design – the C_Bar 3.0 Slider unites all these properties into a single piece. In terms of durability, the rope has been replaced with Dynema webbing that is usually found in climbing gear. Molded EVA on the inside provides a comfortable fit and contributes to the slim design. On top, the tension lever system allows a quick and perfect adjustment of the webbings.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/spareparts/c-bar-30-slider/
C Bar 2.0
ION’s kite spreader bar C-Bar 2.0 comes with a stainless steel hook. The easy-to-use tension lever system allows for fast attach and release of the harness without having to constantly adjust the webbing. The bar comes without rope, which can be added as an option. Thanks to the modular hook system you can easily upgrade the spreader bar to suit your personal preferences.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/spareparts/c-bar-20-kitesurf-hook/
C Bar
The original version of the C-Bar Kitesurf bar comes with a stainless steel hook. The tension lever is built to make your life easier while force is distributed symmetrically across the whole bar.
ION Seatpart Kite Seat Harness
Attachable seatpart for Revoxx and Axis harnesses for all seat harness lovers or /and beginners. Features Seat_Extension, Optional Velcro attachable seat part prevents the harness from riding up.
https://www.ion-products.com/water/women/harnesses/kite-waist-harnesses/seatpart/
Learn more about the latest products from the 2021 ION Water collection at https://www.ion-products.com/water/
By Crystal Veness
Editor at IKSURFMAG, Crystal Veness hails from Canada but is based in South Africa. When she isn't busy kitesurfing or reporting on the latest industry news for the mag, she is kicking back somewhere at a windy kite beach or working on creative media projects.
