What straps do para rowers wear?
Officials' detail · Classes and equipment · 2 of 2Every strap must be at least 5 cm wide, non-elastic, have no mechanical buckle and release at once with one pull. Straps contrast with the uniform and all release the same way. PR1 rowers must wear a trunk strap. The Control Commission checks boats, pontoons and straps; a crew racing without required kit is relegated to last, and a repeat means exclusion.
How it works
- Width: at least 5 cm.
- Material: non-elastic, no buckles.
- Release: one quick pull.
- Colour: contrasting with the uniform.
- Hand straps: release with one hand movement.
- PR1: trunk strap compulsory.
- Missing kit: relegated, shown as REL.
- Again: exclusion from the event.
The glossary has the strapping (para rowing), the PR1 trunk strap, the identification on strapping, the sanction for missing equipment, the control commission checks (para rowing) and the objections and finish calls.
Tricky cases
Can a rower add extra straps?
Yes, if they meet the same rules.
Is the kit rule only for racing?
No. Also training, warm-up and cool-down.
The chest strap hides the shirt sponsor. Allowed to repeat it?
Yes, on the strap, but not visible on both.
Two crews race without kit in one race. Ranking?
Both relegated, equal last.
Why the rule exists
A rower strapped into a capsized boat must get free at once. Quick release is a safety rule first.
Where it differs
| Where | What changes | Source |
|---|---|---|
| All straps | Quick release | R14 7g |
| PR1 | Trunk strap | R14 7f |
| Missing kit | REL, then exclusion | R14 7h |
From the rule book
World Rowing, Rules of Racing and Related Bye-Laws (March 2025), Appendix R14, regulations 7, 9, 15 and 22, with World Rowing Umpiring Commission, Para-Rowing 2026 presentation (8 February 2026). Checked 14 October 2026. Official document: World Rowing Rules of Racing, Appendices R14 and R15.