The full research report on quick release leashes that recommends that while in a white water environment DO NOT wear a leash.
Here is a link to the report: https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/wp-content/files/BC_Report_SUP_Leashes_in_Flowing_and_WW_V2.1Dec23.pdf
Items of interest from review of the report:
- First, it is our opinion that the choice is up to each river surfer to set their own risk tolerance on use of leashes of any type of river wave based on transparency of the inherent dangers of leashes and the self education of each river surfer on leash use in river waves.
- The report Recommended that leashes should not be used on white water until a suitably reliable method of quick release can be identified.
- Report states, “As safety equipment, we expect a leash to operate perfectly 100% of the time” but discovered failure rate up to 42% of waist style quick release leashes.
- Study and report focused on waist belts that utilize webbing (aka tape) belt through a buckle for release.
- Study/report did NOT test snap shackle release directly but did mention it with a photo as a modifications to the waist belt QR leash.
- Study/report did NOT test cable tie modification directly but did mention it with a photo as a modifications to the waist belt QR leash.
- The field study was prior to Sept 2023, the complete report is from December 2023, and just now have located it.
- Paddle UK states, “At present, until further insight and research is available, it is our initial recommendation that those paddling a Stand Up Paddleboard in a white water environment do not wear a leash.” But then states, “Paddle UK fully appreciate and recognise that there are many experienced SUP White Water paddlers and they are able to make professional judgements and decisions on the use of leashes in such environments.” See link: https://britishcanoeingawarding.org.uk/resource/british-canoeing-sup-leash-research/
- Why haven’t groups like American Canoe Association (ACA) and American Whitewater Association (AW) have already been on this report with magnifying glass and their own commissioned studies on QR leashes?
The saga continues. Use your best judgment when river surfing any river wave and at any flow that often changes rapidly to not be the same wave at the same place.
Comments are open.
LBK
The Denver Surf Report 