Keep an Eye Out | Exposed Velcro

Published on Friday, July 29, 2022

Keep an Eye Out | Exposed Velcro

Flap stiffeners and magnets have replaced hook-and-loop fasteners (Velcro) on most components on modern skydiving containers but have not eliminated it altogether. Most manufacturers still incorporate Velcro as part of restraining the reserve-static-line (RSL) lanyard. When the rough side (the hook side) and the soft side (the loop side) aren't mated correctly, both parts are exposed on opposite sides.

During the gear-check instructional phase of a recent AFF Instructor Rating Course, an examiner found the loop side of the Velcro exposed near the RSL attachment shackle (photo 1). This telltale sign indicated that the hook side was also exposed, and further inspection revealed that not only was it exposed, it had caused noticeable damage to the reserve riser (photo 2). Fortunately, the problem was caught early and the riser did not need replacement, but if the Velcro had stayed unmatched, it may have abraded the riser to the point where replacement was a necessity.

Comments (0)Number of views (16685)
Print
 

 

 
Photo by Alex Swindle

Jumpers launch from a Skyvan during Arizona Airspeed’s Intro(ish) to Bigways: Valentine’s Edition at Skydive Arizona in Eloy.

AXIS

 

USPA SIS

Friday, December 1, 2017

The Rating Corner | Dec 01, 2017

Gaining Experience

Practical Tips for Cloud Clearance
Features | Dec 01, 2017

Practical Tips for Cloud Clearance

Clint Vincent Retires (again)
Gearing Up | Dec 01, 2017

Clint Vincent Retires (again)

Container Lock
Keep An Eye Out | Nov 03, 2017

Container Lock

USPA SIS

Winter Is Coming
Features | Nov 01, 2017

Winter Is Coming

Canopy Collision Decisions
Features | Nov 01, 2017

Canopy Collision Decisions

T.J. Hine | D-13580
Profiles | Nov 01, 2017

T.J. Hine | D-13580

USPA SIS

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

The Rating Corner | Nov 01, 2017

Your First Priority

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

Safety Check | Nov 01, 2017

Wingsuit Collisions

Wednesday, November 1, 2017

USPA SIS

First152153154155157159160161Last