Storing and looking after the paraglider
Section 8
35
take several days before the canopy has
dried completely because the fibres absorb
water. Mould may form if the paraglider is
stored wet and the fibres may rot,
particularly when it is warm. This can make
the paraglider unsuitable for flying within a
short time.
A brand-new glider will often be compressed
when delivered. This is solely for the initial
delivery and the glider should not be
compressed in such a way again. Do not
pack your glider too tightly after use and,
even though it is very comfortable, never sit
on the backpack with the glider inside.
If salt water gets on the glider, it should be
rinsed immediately in fresh water (refer to
the section “Cleaning”).
Lines
The Stratus 8 has various different high-
quality and accurately manufactured lines
which have been selected according to the
load and area of use. You should also
protect the lines from unnecessary UV light
because, as with the fabric, UV light in
particular will weaken the lines.
Dyneema lines, which are used in the area
of the main brake lines, for example, are
very temperature-sensitive and can be
permanently damaged at temperatures
above 75° C. Therefore your glider should
never be stored in a hot car especially
during summer.
Be careful that there is no abrasion caused
to the coating on the lines by rubbing,
particularly when ground-training with
crossed risers.
Do not walk on the lines after the glider has
been spread out and watch out for
spectators or skiers who may inadvertently
go over the lines.
When you are packing up the glider, be
careful to avoid putting any unnecessary
kinks in the lines and use only the overhand
knot or bowline knots described for the
brake lines.
Cleaning
If you do have to clean the glider, use only
lukewarm fresh water and a soft sponge.
Use a weak soap solution for stubborn
stains, and then rinse it out carefully and
thoroughly. Leave the glider to dry in a place
which is well-ventilated and in the shade.
IMPORTANT
Do not under any circumstances use
chemicals, brushes, rough cloths, high-
pressure cleaners or steamers to clean
the glider, as these can damage the
fabric coating and weaken it. The glider
becomes porous and loses braking
strength.
Do not under any circumstances put the
glider in the washing machine. Even if
washing powder is not used, the glider
would be badly damaged by the
mechanical action of the machine. Do
not put the canopy into a swimming
pool - chlorine will damage the fabric. If
you have no choice but to rinse the
glider, e.g. following a landing in the
sea, gently wash it down inside and out
with fresh water. Frequent rinsing
accelerates the aging process.
