Got strange issues with my Dakine one, which they've half solved but I'm wondering - has anyone made a spreader bar for themselves?
Nobody, eh? I thought it'd be simple matter of welding some stainless tubing and wire... might not be a good idea after all then!
DIY spreader bars, great idea, and easily done. I made a few some years ago when shackles were all the rage, Wichard type, was the preferred choice as it released under load, with ease. For those , I used S/Stl tube like you said and flattened the ends for welding the belt hoops on to.
I'm toying with the idea of making a few spreaders now using 3mm thick stainless flat bar. It will have a sliding hook , the anchor points will be close to where the bar attaches to the harness . I don't think you need the rigidity and strength of tube for that type of arrangement. Can send you a pic and details when done, if you want. Hope to make one in the next few weeks, time is the only obstacle. J
Having the ability to fabricate stainless, its a no brainier that I should make a few up... Got any drawings? Or sketches?
Not planning on re-inventing the wheel...
I think that the Cabrinha style hook would be good, then the Dakine strap-loop like on the LHS of the bar, but on BOTH ends...
Oh and by the way - don't simply image google "spreader bar" with safe search off 
Hey James, you get to Exmouth this year? I was thinking a flat bar at up would be a good set up in the surf a while back when I had to paddle my surfy in after releasing my kite. Let us know how you go. Could always get them laser cut also tgen no welding.
Flat spreader has been done by dynabar and a carbon composite by engine. It makes sense I thinkhttps://shop.ride-engine.com/parts-accessories/engine-spreader-bar/
$110 for a spreader bar, sounds awesome when I can get a whole harness for a little over $200.
Select to expand quoteNickT said..
Hey James, you get to Exmouth this year? I was thinking a flat bar at up would be a good set up in the surf a while back when I had to paddle my surfy in after releasing my kite. Let us know how you go. Could always get them laser cut also tgen no welding.
Hi Nick, yes was there , asked where you were, you should come to Yardie Creek Homestead next year, dog friendly 
. I'll make one for ya at the same time, just as easy to make two as it is one. Just cant give ya a time line, but you will get it. You have to come to Exmouth next year, we need new tee shirts 
, later, J
