I've been paddling a Wavesport EZ-G for pool season, and it's got one of the newer ratchet-adjustable backbands, and I really like it a lot. I've never paddled a sea kayak with a backband that I like, so I've been using a piece of minicell like the setup on Betsie Bay kayaks (see link below). I like the ratcheting backband setup enough that I did a search today looking for a retrofit backband and came across one that I think looks really good. I don't need a lot of support, but there are some times and some conditions where it would be nice to be able to adjust the backband to get more, which I can't do with minicell.

Has anyone tried the Immersion Research Flex Capacitor? http://www.immersionresearch.com/products/accessories/flex-capacitor-backratchet/

Ease of installation would be nice, but it only has to go in once. Comfort is kind of important, but I just need a bit of support once-in-a-while, and lastly, what may be a bummer- I have an "expedition hatch" in my aft bulkhead like the Betsie Bay boats ( http://www.bbkayak.com/features.htm ), so it would be nice if the Flex Capacitor flipped up and out of the way pretty easily. But- it's not a deal killer. I think I opened the hatch once last summer, to be sure the gasket was seated o.k. and that the o-rings weren't wearing. It's 100% day boat right now.

Hopefully some of you have tried this! Even if you haven't, input would be appreciated. I don't have experience with this type of outfitting. For the price, I've got to imagine I'll come out way ahead of making another minicell piece if I add in labor. It's not exactly a speedy process. I'd rather paddle than carve foam.

m