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 (14926)
Print
 

 

 
Photo by David Cherry

At the USPA National Championships of 4-Way Formation Skydiving at Skydive Arizona in Eloy, Ranch TNT competes in the open class and earns selection to the U.S. Parachute Team for the female 4-way division at the world championships.

Skydive Store

 

USPA SIS

MFS: Making a Scene!
Features | Oct 20, 2025

MFS: Making a Scene!

Skydive Store

Sky Queens Take Flight at a Boogie Fit for Royalty
People | Oct 13, 2025

Sky Queens Take Flight at a Boogie Fit for Royalty

Keith Creedy D-29734
Profiles | Oct 01, 2025

Keith Creedy D-29734

Skydive Store

Innhopps

135678910Last