Handle pass leashes are not an option, they are essential! Anyone riding without a leash is a contributor to kiting bans and recklessness that leads to injury and even death (in the case of Silke Gordt). For handle pass moves there are two options to keep your kite with you. The first is the fifth line or leash connected to the re-ride or sliding safety system on your bar. It is easy to make up a 1m leash which is connected to your traditional depower leash. If you chose to make a leash for handle passes, please attach it to your harness with a witchard shackle which you can release if in need should the kite tangle and not depower. Do not use the Ronstan style shackle as they do not always open under load.

The second option is a 1m long suicide leash which is a leash connected from your harness directly to the trim (chicken) loop. This leash is called a "suicide" as it does not disable the kite in the event of a missed pass and will drag you along without you being able to reach the bar to regain control. Again connect this to your harness by a Witchard or some other form of quick release so as you can let go of the lot if you end up in a situation you cannot control. We do not recommend a Suicide leash and instead recommend a 5th line leash or a regular depower leash system so as in the event of a missed pass the kite falls powerless to the water for you to try again. If you do decide on a suicide leash, make sure it is VERY strong as I have witnessed many suicide leashes break under the extreme loads they have to endure, sending kites crashing onto crowded beaches.