Surely if it is fitted with a quick release it should be fine at all skill levels, I started paddling C1 in a boat with knee straps and a lap belt.pmp wrote:I think you're movin' to seatbelts a little soon.
The important part it that you are happy that you can get out of it, so by all means use a lap belt, just take the time to design it right, and familiarize yourself with swimming from you boat with it on, somewhere safe.