Mike
I think IR backbands would work well. As a bit cheaper option, I have a number of new IR Reggie Backbands I'm trying to sell for $25 including shipping. A friend and I bought out the inventory of a local kayak builder and we now have over 30 of them, as well as Yakima foot braces. I plan to install replace my stripped/foam covered backband in my Redfish King this summer with the Reggie. If interested email me d_m_benham at yahoo.com.

: 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