Inversion. State in which the canopy has been turned completely inside out. Also see partial inversion.

Joint efficiency. The comparison of the strength of the junction or joining materials against the original materials.

Jumping. To engage in a premeditated parachute jump.

Kicker plate. A launching disc which is placed under the pilot chute.

Kill-line collapsible bridle. A main pilot chute bridle configuration whereby the pilot chute is collapsed by use of a retractable centerline after it has deployed the parachute.

L/D. Lift to drag ratio.

Lap parachute. A parachute that rests in the lap of the wearer and attaches to the harness with risers to snaps and D-rings on the front. Resembles a chest parachute with long risers. Not in current use.

Lateral band. Lower (in the periphery) or upper (in the vent hem), a reinforcement web.

Launching disc. A kicker plate placed under the pilot chute.

Leg strap. That part of the harness webbing that encircles the wearer’s leg. The leg straps can be adjusted to fit the user.

Life cycle. Service life. The time that a parachute may be considered usable.

Lift web (main). The portion of the harness from the shoulder to the hip area; generally from the canopy releases to the leg strap junction.

Lift webs. The front portion of the harness from the shoulder to the leg strap junction; includes the risers if there are no riser releases.

Lift. The force perpendicular to drag that helps reduce vertical descent.

Line extension. When the lines are fully deployed; prior to line stretch.

Line separator. A tool used to separate and hold the lines of a round parachute during the packing process.

Line stowing. The process of drawing the suspension lines into suspension line retaining loops in the parachute pack; accomplished to prevent entanglement or twisting of the lines during opening of the parachute. Stows may be held by retaining loops or rubber bands.