Hugh Greenwald of the old Sailing Systems, Inc. (SSI) marketed a product called SailSafe in the 1970s and 1980s, which is the ball and socket you describe. I use it on both my 20 and 14 Turbo for the reasons mentioned in prior posts. The only two drawbacks are that you have to have crew that agrees with the concept. Most of the more youthful folks like their own harness which came with a hook. So sometimes we restring the trap wires to accommodate their preference. The second is that they are getting harder to find when you want a replacement. (I've only had to replace two since 1984.) I've attached a photo to this reply showing the buckle. I really hope somebody brings this item back, because Hugh doesn't have any or the molds either last time I contacted him at Hobie Cat.



Wally Schuette