Exovest - backmount

[Nicolas Arnhold]

There`s something I`ve been wondering for some time. When the Exo was released I remember having read somewhere that it was designed with the capability of backmount in mind - but I never saw such an option directly from Tiffen. Over the years even those few offerings from Flowcine and Walter Klassen disappeared. Does anyone know of others still on the market and, if not, what the reason is? Is there something which makes this vest less perfect for backmounting or is it that there is no real benefit in doing so? Thanks for any insights!

[chris fawcett]

Hi Nicolas,

Tiffen used the back-mount capability of the Exovest for the 3rd arm section. It made sense to connect that 3rd section to the back to keep it out of the way.

We tried various back-mounting options for 2 section arms, but consensus was that there was no benefit to back mounting. The extra weight out back helps counterbalance the weight of the Steadicam out front, so you don't feel 'those' muscles as much, but the result is that you're carrying more weight through your joints. I prefer to build back muscles rather than increase load on those joints.

The weight of the Steadicam is where it is, out front. Connecting that load to the rear of the vest, doesn't change that. It just makes you heavier and wider. Now, some top operators prefer it, so their experience is different; but personally, I don't see the benefit of back mounting a 2-section arm. Maybe that's why you don't see many Exovest back-mounting options these days.

Hope this helps!

Chris 

[Nicolas Arnhold]

Thanks a lot, dear Chris! Couldn`t ask for a better answer and then from the man himself :)))

[chris fawcett]

You’re welcome!