Vol 2 - Issue 7 May/June 1998
On the Wire - Tech Tips

Catamaran Sailing
Catamaran Pictures


Replacing Worn or Broken Hiking Straps

By David Hall

As an alternative to straps, put grommet holes where the straps were tied down and run a polyester rope from hole to hole (never use nylon in this application). Before you tie off the rope, thread a clear plastic tubing over the rope and cover that with a nice foam cover (plumbing pipe covers fit well). Then cover that with a sturdy fabric like that used for awnings. You'll need a sewing machine, but it's all straight lines. The last thing you'll do is tie off the rope under the tramp.

The foam is soft on your ankles, and the fabric doesn't deteriorate unless you're pretty rough on it. Best of all is it's easy and soft to slip your foot under. Unless you hike out at the front of your boat, you don't need to do this to the front straps.

David Hall

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