You get the good O rings at places that sell boat fittings. You can also get titanium ones. The stainless yacht O rings can handle several tonnes, so you don't really need to worry about strength.
It's basically the same arrangement as was used on belts, backpacks and motorcyle helmets in 'the old days'. They don't really slip unless you use a very slippery material.
To attach them to a line you just make a loop or tie a loopy knot like a bowline, then put the loop through the rings and then the rings through the loop. You could probably get away with a clove hitch around them, but because the rings move against each other a loop is better.
Using O rings or buckles is one of those things that seem brilliant in concept, but they can be eliminated with just a little bit of skill. Once you get the hang of setting things up so that you get it right first time, every time, then they're just an added complication that serves no purpose. Like training wheels on an adult's bike.
Skill doesn't cost or weigh anything, doesn't wear out or break and it takes up no space. Of course, one should never underestimate the universal nature of human stupidity
Bookmarks