Skyward Chronicles: Latest Reviews in Paragliding Gear

The ICARO Rucksack light is an ultra-light, tear-resistant ripstop backpack specifically designed for paragliding enthusiasts who value minimalism, low volume, and lightweight equipment. Weighing only 400 grams, it offers a simple but functional design aimed at pilots who want to minimize bulk during hike-and-fly activities or while reaching launch sites. Despite its minimalist approach, it includes important features such as two compression straps, a central zipper, a chest strap, ergonomic shoulder straps, and load-distribution straps, contributing to carrying stability and comfort. The top flap can be inverted to pack the backpack into a small bundle, facilitating easy stowing during flight or transport. With a capacity of about 120 litres, it fits a full paraglider kit and can be used as a fastbag for the wing. Retailing at 100 EUR, it positions itself as a niche, lightweight accessory within ICARO’s paragliding backpack range.

The NOVA MENTOR 7 is a groundbreaking EN/LTF B cross-country paraglider that stands out by combining high, usable performance with exceptional comfort and safety. Designed as a hybrid 2.5-liner with 66 cells and a moderate aspect ratio of 5.5, the Mentor 7 markedly advances over its predecessor by significantly increasing performance and top speed without raising the pilot’s skill demands, defining itself as an XC machine in the high-B class.

The UP Meru 2 EN/LTF D is a state-of-the-art two-line competition paraglider designed for ambitious cross-country pilots who demand high speed, excellent glide, and stability while maintaining safety and manageable handling. As the successor to the original Meru, the Meru 2 features 84 cells and a flat aspect ratio of 6.9, enhanced by an optimized internal structure and the innovative use of nylon rods along the leading edge and both upper and lower sails. This design results in a sleek, efficient aerofoil that performs strongly in real-world conditions.

The NOVA XENON is an ultralight, EN/LTF D certified two-liner paraglider that epitomizes pure racing spirit. Designed specifically for highly experienced cross-country (XC) and hike & fly competition pilots, the XENON stands out with its advanced technical features and deliberate balance between raw performance and controlled handling. With 65 cells and a high flat aspect ratio of 6.7, this wing is optimized for maximum speed potential and minimal line drag, aimed at pilots who demand race-level efficiency under challenging alpine conditions.

The ADVANCE Windsock is a specialized accessory designed to serve as a reliable visual wind indicator, primarily for paragliding pilots and airfield operators. Its core function is to provide clear, immediate information about wind direction and strength, critically aiding takeoff and landing safety. Additionally, it can function as an attention-getter in domestic outdoor settings. The product arrives ready for mounting using a practical ring system, streamlining the installation process on poles or masts for semi-permanent deployment.

The NOVA BION 3 is a newly launched EN/LTF B certified tandem paraglider that blends lightweight construction with a robust, performance-driven design. Targeting professional tandem pilots and leisure pilots alike, it emphasizes ease of use, durability, and adaptability for thermalling and cross-country (XC) tandem flights. Its 34.5 m² projected area supports a wide takeoff weight range from 110 to 220 kg, with paramotor certification up to 250 kg, making it a flexible choice for various pilot and passenger combinations.

ICARO’s Backpack stands out as a robust and thoughtfully designed paraglider rucksack, tailored specifically to carry complete ICARO flying equipment with comfort and practicality. Unlike ultralight hike-and-fly packs, it embraces a “one for all” concept, focusing on universal gear carrying, durability, and long-term comfort during load-bearing.

The Adam Spot from BGD is an EN/LTF-A certified paragliding wing meticulously engineered for precision landing competitions. Born from the renowned Adam school wing, it integrates exceptionally high passive safety and beginner-friendly ease of use with enhanced control precision near stall and low speeds – a vital feature for accuracy spotting in landings.

The ICARO XC Backpack is a specialized paragliding rucksack crafted to perfectly complement a complete flying kit including a glider and harness. Constructed from a durable 210D PU-coated ripstop nylon, this pack balances robust tear resistance with low weight, tipping the scales at just 795 grams. This lightweight feature is especially beneficial for pilots undertaking hike & fly adventures or long cross-country (XC) approach hikes, where carrying less weight significantly enhances endurance and comfort.

The UP LHOTSE X EN/LTF B paraglider presents itself as an ultra-light, mid‑B class wing expertly designed to meet the demands of experienced pilots who seek a versatile and high-performance canopy. Its 2.5‑liner hybrid structure cleverly balances the forgiving safety of a 3-liner with the enhanced speed and glide efficiency characteristic of a 2-liner. With an impressively low starting weight of just 2.7 kg (XS size) and a compact pack volume, the LHOTSE X is ideally suited for hike & fly enthusiasts, cross-country (XC) pilots, and mountain travelers craving both performance and easy transportation.

The ADVANCE WEIGHTLESS harness represents a cutting-edge ultralight cross-country (XC) paragliding harness designed by ADVANCE, evolved from the highly regarded X-Alps race harness. It appeals to pilots prioritizing weight savings without compromising on robustness, comfort, or essential safety features. Tailored for ambitious hike-to-XC, vol-biv, and competition flying, where aerodynamic efficiency, minimal weight, and compact packing are crucial, the WEIGHTLESS offers a competitive edge with full XC functionality.

The NOVA AONIC 2 paraglider stands out as a sophisticated EN/LTF A-class wing, designed to provide more than just basic safety for progressing pilots. With its advanced technical features including 51 cells, high aspect ratio, mini-ribs, and an optimized line layout, it aims to deliver enhanced performance without compromising the forgiving nature essential for early solo and post-school pilots.