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 (15061)
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

PD Releases Sabre3
Gear & Industry Spotlight | Aug 01, 2020

PD Releases Sabre3

Quaranteam
Five Minute Call | Aug 01, 2020

Quaranteam

Stolen Gear

Golden Anniversary
Five Minute Call | Aug 01, 2020

Golden Anniversary

Jumpers Wed in Winterset
Five Minute Call | Aug 01, 2020

Jumpers Wed in Winterset

AXIS

Summer Camp
Five Minute Call | Aug 01, 2020

Summer Camp

Mike Brewer | D-33350
Profiles | Aug 01, 2020

Mike Brewer | D-33350

Saturday, August 1, 2020

Letters | Aug 01, 2020

Opening Shock

Squirrel

First6465666769717273Last