Forward WIP (water impact protection) was established in 2015 in Switzerland, originally to design and supply gear for America’s Cup teams. Worn by sailors around the world, the gear is used in all the high speed regattas from the America’s Cup to Sail GP.
Constantly pushing the envelope with design, the brand is also a favourite with kite boarders, wind surfers, and wing sailors. Junior water sport aficionados are also catered to with their range of smaller PFDs and helmets.
Their latest harness is the Waist Foil Harness. It was developed using the feedback of Thomas and Nico Goyard, and Benj Tillier. Based in Europe, these athletes are acknowledged as expert windfoilers.
A lot of thought always goes into the Forward WIP gear and the Waist Foil Harness is no exception.
Super lightweight the harness has excellent adjustment points as it is made up of two parts, the waist belt and the EXO harness. They are linked with velcro and give you great lumbar support whilst spreading the load. Two integrated battens provide more support. There is even a small pocket for any tools you may need.
We have always been a supporter of the Forward WIP range as the team there seem to spend as much time on the water using their gear as they do designing it!
- Andrew Hawkins, Boat Crew Gear.