The all new ION Spectre harness has been pushed hard by the ION athlete team, but what really matters is how it performs for everyday riders and in proper conditions. The good news is it has also impressed independent test teams across the kite industry. Here’s a quick breakdown of what they said, plus what makes the Spectre such a big leap forward.
Independent test feedback
“The Spectre Kite Harness for men represents a significant advancement in harness technology, showcasing ION's commitment to innovation and performance.”
– iksurfmag
“We tested it in over 50 knots, and the harness barely deforms, giving maximum back support. If you regularly ride in extreme conditions with winds above force seven, this harness is highly recommended.”
– access
“Although the Spectre is designed to be extremely stiff, comfort does not suffer as a result. On the contrary: testers with different body types immediately rated the fit as very comfortable. The shape seems so universal that it appeals to a wide target group.”
– KITEMAGAZIN
What makes the Spectre different
The Spectre sets a new benchmark in carbon harness performance and is built to deliver a more direct, supported feel on the water. The fully carbon hard shell provides serious back support and quick response, while the Carbon Fusion Plate targets maximum stiffness with minimal weight.
Inside, the Hydro_Cush liner uses non water absorbent EVA foam to keep the harness comfortable and lighter for longer sessions. The Ergo_Pad adapts to your body shape and supports the lower back for long days on the water.
- Carbon Shell for maximum back support and minimal flex
- Ergo_Pad designed with medical input to protect the lower spine
- Spectre Bar 2 spreader bar for stable, symmetrical load distribution
- Ultra light construction that stays light even after long sessions
On the water performance
The Spectre combines a fully carbon hard shell with the Spectre Bar 2.0 spreader bar to create a locked in feeling without the harness deforming under load. The carbon shell reduces flex and keeps the support consistent. The ultra light, ultra stiff spreader bar helps distribute forces evenly across your core, while the internal non slip EVA padding helps keep everything stable, even during rotations and aerial manoeuvres.
Ergonomic support and lower spine protection
The Ergo_Pad is the centrepiece of the Spectre’s ergonomic design. Developed in collaboration with medical experts, it focuses on protecting the most sensitive area for many riders: the lower spine.
Pressure from the kite is guided through an integrated channel to reduce direct load on the vertebrae, while raised trigger points on each side help redirect force onto surrounding muscles. The result is smarter pressure distribution, reduced risk of overload, and a harness that stays supportive and stable even when the wind turns up.
Weight and travel friendliness
At just 1050 g, the Spectre is 14% lighter than the Riot Curv (size M), placing it among the lightest harnesses in the ION range. Thanks to its carbon construction and non water absorbent EVA liner, it stays light even after a long session. That also makes it a great travel harness, because it won’t add unnecessary weight to your luggage.
Developed and tested with ION athletes
The Spectre harness was developed in close collaboration with ION athletes, with multiple prototypes tested through 2024. Rider feedback played a big part in dialling in the final fit and feel.
Andrea Principi (testing through 2024)
“Today, I tried the new version. It was amazing. The support on the back was perfect. I felt like the pressure from the harness was distributed on my back, and it was not painful at all. Really good, honestly.”
Official launch date
The ION Spectre Kite Harness officially launched on 20th October 2025.
Equipped with the Spectre Bar 2
Every Spectre comes complete with the Spectre Bar 2 spreader bar, combining a durable aluminium hook, a carbon infused base plate, and integrated soft padding for comfort and control. Side flaps reduce twisting and improve responsiveness, while side loops make on and off easier, especially when travelling.
- Padding: integrated cushioning covers hard edges for protection and comfort
- Buckles: durable stainless steel connections with a lever hook system for quick setup
- Hook: forged aluminium hook with a top bend design for increased resistance and reduced leverage
- Carbon infused: injection moulded plastic reinforced with recycled carbon fibres for added durability
“Over the last few years the harnesses have become increasingly more comfortable and supportive of the spine. The new Spectre harness stands is on the top level and with all the testing and work from the huge test team that went into the design makes it fit super comfortably for everyone.”
– Lasse Walker
Spectre offers more
- C30 Buckles
- Internal Flex Belt
- Kite_Knife Multitool 2.0
- D-Ring leash attachment point next to your spreader bar (side can be set to preference)
Price and ordering
UK price: £459.99
International customers: prices are shown excluding UK VAT (20%) at checkout, then shipping is added.
Worthing Watersports - ION Harness overview Video
Shop the ION Spectre Harness on our website:
If you’d like sizing advice, or want help choosing between the Spectre and other options in the ION range, just drop us a message and we’ll get you dialled in.
Worthing Watersports
Phone: 01903 247742
Email: sales@worthingwatersports.com