It is not easy to innovate in the field of harness lanyard . Since the straps replaced the ropes, we couldn't see what could change. Sailors had become accustomed to wearing ropes to the strong and secure stainless steel karabiners, but which weigh when worn all day long.
Aluminium to save weight
For its ProLine model, Wichard, a forged stainless steel specialist, decided to use an aluminium snap hook. Still forged in France, this product weighs three times less than its stainless steel counterpart! To solve the corrosion problems that appear on aluminum snap hooks - a mountain snap hook does not last a week on a boat because of salt - Wichard uses a special anodization. This protects the aluminium and also reinforces its mechanical qualities.
Safety first and foremost
The carabiner is equipped with a double security. To open it, manipulate a first block, then press the main finger. This double safety is essential to prevent the carabiner from opening unintentionally.
A form adapted to the use
Wichard's design office wanted to design a product that was easy to use in all situations. Thus the opening of passage is particularly large (26 mm) and the position of its fingers on the snap hook does not come to hinder the passage. In addition, the fingertip does not form a hook - as it is the case on the other snap hooks - but remains angled to facilitate the picking of the lifeline strap. So many details that are protected by patents.
A studied strap
The slim strap is also designed to not absorb water (which eventually increases the weight of the lanyard) and thus offers a very fast drying. It is equipped with an overload indicator (max. 250 kg) which indicates if the strap has withstood a strong traction and that it must be replaced. The elastic band inside the strap is also designed so that the lanyard does not interfere with movement when not in use and the karabiner is pulled back onto its harness.
An economical solution
By placing a buckle next to the snap hook, Wichard offers the possibility of making its harness strap modular. You can easily transform a 1 strand lanyard into a 2 strand lanyard (with 3 snap hooks) or even transform a 2 strand lanyard into 2 1 strand lanyards.
A system that evolves with the years
On the ProLine The carabiner is guaranteed for 10 years, but the manufacturer recommends changing the strap after 5 years. The operation can be carried out by the user, without going through a technical service. It's simple and saves you a lot of money.
On the standard side, the Proline complies with current standards (CE and ISO 12401:2009 marking), and also complies with ISAF OSR - world sailing.