thigh-straps

I've installed thigh straps on my Hobie Adventures. They don't surf particularly well but the straps make the difference between eating it in the surf and being able to successfully brace into some rather large waves. For surf launches and landings I definitely would want them. With a decent brace and a set of thigh straps your chances of dumping in the surf drop considerably.

Also for paddling it's so nice to feel locked into the kayak vs merely sitting upon.

A highly recommended upgrade for the ocean especially, increases the safety factor imo

Spot, it's not clear to me if you used the thigh straps on your Cobra. If you did, I'm curious what kind you used because I'm thinking of getting some for my Fish and Dive. It surfs pretty good as you know, but if straps would help, I'd get some. Your thoughts?

Honestly, I have no idea what brand those thigh straps were.  I do remember them having a little padding in the contact area.  Something similar to this: https://www.amazon.com/Harmony-Standard-Sit-on-Top-Kayak-Thighstraps/dp/B0047H49GS/ref=sr_1_6?keywords=kayak+thigh+straps&qid=1650400716&sr=8-6

To answer your 1st question, Yes, I used my thigh straps for surf landings as well as surfing my yak for fun. I've had a couple of sessions where the swell was pushing 8' and the thigh straps really helped in both turning and keeping the yak on rail.  That said, you still have to know how and when to angle your takeoff but the straps make the implementation much easire.

Hope that helps!
-Mark-

Thanks Mark. I believe I'll get the ones you referenced. Be nice to have on board when the swell is bigger than expected!