stunt kite line
Dual and quad stunt kites use Spectra stunt kite line. The question I always wondered about was why does it cost so much for two long bits of string? This is because Spectra is much more than any old fiber that is attached to stunt kite.
Stunt kite line is made from Spectra which is one of the strongest most light weight fibers in the world. It is fifteen times as strong as steel if the same weights were involved. It is also a very durable fiber. This makes Spectra perfect for a wide variety of commercial and sporting applications. Its lightweight strength makes it perfect for the lines of stunt kites.
Spectra fiber is used for much more than stunt kite flying lines though. Other sports uses include sailing cloths, climbing ropes, and fishing lines. Spectra line fiber has a variety of commercial uses too, for example luggage fabric reinforcement, parachute cords and even dental floss. Its light weight and durability make it perfect for more than simply kite lines. The uses that amazed me most is that it is actually used in the manufacture of bullet proof vests and for tethers in space by NASA!
The stunt kite line we use today has come about from the research and development at Honeywell, the company who produce Spectra. The strength of the line is certainly one advantage for stunt kite fliers. On top of that its lightweight nature allows the lines to literally float. This means that flying kites in lower wind condtions becomes feasible. Another major advantage in its use as stunt kite line is that it has almost zero stretch. This sensitivity allows for greater control of our kites. Our hands are able to feel every subtle change in the movement of our kite. This is all made possible by the use of Spectra stunt kite line.