In this article I would like to show you the correct setup of the backplate and the harness associated with it. The webbing is continuous and only has one buckle on it across the stomach. The crotch strap is separate. Before you do your first dive with the backplate and the wing, you should make sure that absolutely everything is setup correctly. The benefits that you gain from diving with a wing are very much dependent on correctly setting up the backplate and harness. If at all possible, put the harness on whilst you are also wearing either your undergarments or a wetsuit.

Proper guidance of the webbing

The image on the right shows you how the harness is properly threaded.

Step 1: Adjust shoulder straps

The first step in adjusting the harness is; you should be able touch the top edge of the back plate with your hand. If you cannot do this, then you need to either tighten or loosen the harness.

Tip: Having a second person behind you is useful because they can tell you whether or not the back plate is sitting correctly (straight) or not.

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Step 2: Chest D-rings

If the back plate is in the correct position, then the next thing to do is make adjustments to the chest D-rings. You should do this when you can stretch out your arms horizontally and then they should be reachable when you bend your arms at the elbow. Depending on how you cope when clipping up the equipment, you can adapt this parts after the first few dives.

Check: When you have finished setting up the shoulder straps, check again, that both sides are the same length. This is best done by laying the back plate on the ground.

Control the shoulder straps

When you are finished setting up the shoulder straps you have to control the length of both. Both shoulder straps have to have the same length!

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Step 3: Hip D-ring

Point the hip D-ring so that it sits about half way round around your body’s axis.

Step 4: Adjusting the crotch strap

The main point of the crotch strap is to prevent the backplate slipping up your back to your head. It should be tightened as much as possible.

But there should still be about 2 inches worth of space above it, between it and the closed waist strap. The front D-ring is not adjustable, similar to most harness systems. Mainly this is needed for scooters.

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Step 5: Setting the back D-ring

The rear D-ring is mostly used to store unneeded equipment or secure buoys which are stored in the storage pack (a bag that can be screwed onto the backplate).

Slide the rear D-ring down far enough so that you can still reach it, even with tanks on your back.

Tip: check after several dives that the backplate and the harness (if necessary) are still in the correct position.