The tension on the strap can be removed by unscrewing the hexagonal tightening nut with the BOA WINCH ratchet handle. The tension on the strap will be maintained until the hexagonal tightening nut is unscrewed. Once unscrewed the user must pull out the nut to completely disengage the worm gear, which will allow the strap to be unrolled freely or rolled up quickly using the quick rewind handle, located on the side of the winch.