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Ollie Moginie said..
I currently have three broken bones in my foot from a crash. It was a weird skatey crash where the board rotated around my front foot, and couldn't get out in time. I've never felt any strain in my knee and my feet usually come out easily. My back strap is fairly wide to allow for different placement, but tight at the top. Front strap is the opposite, a bit taller but narrow so tight on the sides.
I personally wouldn't use footstraps if I wasn't jumping (I actually don't when purely wave riding or downwinding). There's really no need to, I much prefer having an offset stance anyway.
Another option if you are worried is using Armstrong straps. They are such **** quality that they will just tear if under too much strain, so probably quite safe in a bad crash. I got sick of replacing them so switched to windsurf style straps, but when I go back to straps ill probably use those instead.
That sucks Ollie, hope you mend up quickly, injuries suck, especially in the middle of summer !!
I use Starboard/Drake ultra light windsurf straps. they are a shaped foam strap that are really easy to get out of. And bonus is they are very light and don't absorb any water so stay that way.