Use in Practice
The STRAPLESS 4 should principally be flown sitting in a upright position. This gives the best view in the air.

Using the speedbar

The STRAPLESS 4 has a speed system already fitted.

WarningMake sure the speed system is always connected to the wing in flight, even when you do not intend to use it. A loose speed line could prevent a successful reserve deployment.

Emergencies

Reserve

Throwing the reserve

Use the correct technique to release and throw the reserve. This is a pull then throw to the side. Do not pull straight up. Throw the reserve inner container as far away as possible in the transverse direction so that the lines are quickly extended and tensioned.

HintWe recommend that you make a brief tactile check on your reserve handle during every flight. This will program the subconscious as to where it is. We advise that you also mentally rehearse the throwing technique.

In strong rotational flight such as a spiral dive, very high G-loading can occur. This can make reserve throwing much more difficult. 

HintTake your harness along to a G-Force Trainer and practise releasing your reserve under high G-loading.

Landing under the reserve

Immediately after the reserve deployment, try to collapse the canopy if possible, or separate from it with a Hook Knife or Quick Out carabiner to avoid a shear position. Due to the shoulder attachment you should land with your legs on the ground first. Try to absorb the energy with a landing roll.

Reserve landing in strong wind

In a strong surface wind there’s a risk that the pilot, attached at the shoulders, will be dragged over the ground by the reserve and paraglider. Options for dealing with this are distinctly limited.

WarningIn the event of very strong winds on the ground, consider also cutting the paraglider risers or lines on at least one side with the hook knife before touchdown.
WarningThe front buckle will not open under tension. Immediately after touchdown, open it as soon as it unloads. If this is not possible, use the hook knife here as well and cut the strap.

Water landing

In general, caution is advised when flying over water, whether it be crossing a lake during a cross country, or during SIV safety training. In particular a pilot can land in the water during SIV, intentionally or otherwise.

WarningWater landings are dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Landing in flowing water or in coastal surf is often fatal (drowning). ADVANCE recommends that you always carry a hook knife.
WarningAfter a water landing, separate yourself from your harness as quickly as possible and get clear of your equipment so that you do not get caught up in the reserve or paraglider lines.
WarningYou should be aware that the foam protector in any harness will try to float. This can automatically tip the pilot head down in the water. Wearing a lifejacket is essential during SIV training.

Involuntary reserve descent into water

Especially in this case it is very important, if possible, to get out of the speedbag before splashdown, and open all buckles except the front belt or use the hook knife. Immediately after entering the water the front belt must be opened or cut. Get away from the harness and all your equipment as quickly as possible.

Landing in water with a lifejacket

Even when landing in the water during SIV, with a lifejacket, it is recommended that the STRAPLESS 4 buckles are unfastened and the harness taken off before getting into the boat. When full of water the harness gets very heavy and makes it very difficult for the pilot to board the rescue boat.

WarningThe front strap will not open under load.

Water landing without reserve

Everything described so far applies. Depending on the situation and danger (current, waves) it may be useful to cut straps with the hook knife before touching down, as the front strap cannot be opened under tension, or even to cut all straps and jump or slide out of the harness into the water.

WarningIf a buckle or speedbag will not open, cut it with the hook knife before landing in the water. You can mount a hook knife on the shoulder strap and secure it with a long line.

Maintenance and care of the harness after a water landing

After contact with water, all protectors and the comfort foam should be removed from the STRAPLESS 4. See chapter "Installing/removing components". Everything should then be allowed to dry in a shaded place outside, or carefully laid out in a dry room – or the harness could be hung by its carabiners and gently wafted to and fro. The reserve must be taken out and dried separately. Obviously it should then be repacked.

InfoThe protectors may take several days to dry

Tree landing

In the event of a tree landing, with or without a reserve parachute, there is a risk of a possible fall.

WarningThe most dangerous part of a tree landing is climbing down. Always wait for a rescue party to get you out of the tree.
InfoWe recommend that you keep a rope sling with a carabiner in the harness so that you can secure your harness to a branch and relax while you wait.