How to check your leash ?
It is important to regularly check your leash to detect a crack, cut or lack of elasticity. At the slightest sign of damage, it is important to change your leash to avoid any accident.
A leash must be changed every year, or at the slightest visible fault.
How to maintain your leash ?
Once you get home, the first thing to do is rinse it with fresh water. The salinity of seawater will attack materials such as the velcro, as well as the swivels (metal parts which connect the rope to the attachment system).
When to replace your leash ?
On the vast majority of leashes, the rope is made of Urethane. As this material is sensitive to UV rays, it is best not to leave it in the sun for too long.
A leash deteriorates rapidly, despite appearances, and should be renewed at least once a year.
When subjected to intense stress, any leash deforms. These repeated stresses and deformations will cause the leash to lose its elasticity, and will ultimately lead to its breakage. So even if it visually appears to be in good condition, consider changing it if it shows signs of stretching.
Replace it at the first signs of wear. This could be: worn hook and loop or micro cuts in the rope. It’s about your safety, that of those around you, and the durability of your wing.