Never Kite Higher Than You're Willing To Fall

Last Friday, we thought we'd celebrate Chuck Norris Day by heading out to Lake Travis for some beer and boating. While we were out there, we noticed something a little risky, a little attractive and a lot stupid. Once our hands dried, we searched around the internet and were surprised to discover a new trend that has hit Central Texas lakes: Kite Tubing.

Okay, the lake's not really our thing so maybe we're a little late, but this thing is straight out of America's Funniest Home Videos... or Rescue 911, we're not quite sure yet. Created by cleverly-named watercraft recreation company Sportsstuff, this $600 family-fun inflatable death ride -- complete with skull and wings logo -- is 10 feet in diameter and capable of "flying" more than 30 feet in the air. Their slogan (which doubles as a warning) is "Never kite higher than you're willing to fall!"

Where can I get one, you ask? Well, don't.

2 deaths and 39 reported injuries later, it turns out that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commision has removed them from the market and implemented an immediate voluntary recall in it's place. Injuries include facial fractures, chest and back injuries, broken necks and punctured lungs. Don't believe us? After the jump, YouTube's got the video to prove it...

Photo from sportsstuff.com