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 (16046)
Print
 
Broad Stripes and Bright Stars
Feb 23, 2026

Broad Stripes and Bright Stars

USPA Winter Board Meeting Concludes
Feb 17, 2026

USPA Winter Board Meeting Concludes

Guardians of the Drop
Feb 16, 2026

Guardians of the Drop

 

 
Photo by Alex Swindle

Wingsuiter Ben Poling takes a dock with a smiling Colby Groves at the Who In The Ville Stole the Christmas Boogie at Skydive Arizona in Eloy.

Squirrel

 

Innhopps

Making Your Voices Heard
Homepage USPA | Jun 12, 2023

Making Your Voices Heard

Innhopps

Niklas Hemlin | D-22356
Profiles | Jun 01, 2023

Niklas Hemlin | D-22356

Joy Riders Break Florida Records
Industry News | May 29, 2023

Joy Riders Break Florida Records

Why Compete?
Homepage USPA | May 25, 2023

Why Compete?

Squirrel

Jeanice Dolan | D-21144
Profiles | May 16, 2023

Jeanice Dolan | D-21144

Skydive Store

First2425262729313233Last