Hey folks,
So, when it comes to deciding if you should go for an EN-A or EN-B paragliding wing, it's really a chat you need to have with your instructor. You know, get into your skill level, what you're aiming for, all that good stuff.
But picking the right company or brand for your first wing? That's a bit of a maze. How do you sift through all those reviews and ratings when you're not exactly a pro in the sport? And comparing wing prices can make your head spin.
Now, here's the thing - are there paragliding brands that totally outshine the rest? Because every instructor seems to be repping a specific brand, and you're left wondering if that brand is a smart investment for a beginner.
So, how do you avoid ending up with a wing that's, let's say, not the best quality?
And what about buying used gear? Is it a good move, especially for your first wing?
Lastly, is paragliding one of those sports where you just have to trust your instructor until you're savvy enough to pick your own gear? Let's hear your thoughts!
Paragliding-shop.nl
101d
• Edited
I would advise to buy a A-class glider. Don’t over estimate well known brands as they are using enormous amounts of money to build their brand. Finally you’re the one paying for this. There are no bad wings as the need to pas the EN-926-1 and -2 certification process. A brand producing bad wings is dead within a few years.
Never buy used flying school equipment as teaching to fly is very hard on the equipment. One year used school equipment equals >8 years average use in private hands in most situations.
Buy at a reseller that offers multiple brands and check their google reviews or other customers feedback.
There are even shops that offer you a ”not satisfied bring it back warranty ” go there!!
We run a paragliding shop and customers can rent a wing for their flying holiday. If they decide they liked it and buy this brand and model the rental will not be charged. That’s much better in the decision process than making one or two test flights.
Change to a higher class wing after you experienced all possible scenarios and were completely confident in those situations.
As long there is any space for you to grow your skills under your lower class wing allow yourself to do so before stepping up.
Keep in mind that switching a seat harness for a pod harness will bring your wing to a higher class concerning reactions as tested during the EN-926-2 tests. These tests are always done with a seat harness. So first get completely confident to your wing before changing your seat for a pod.
Asmir Fakić
331d
There are several tips for new pilots
1. believe in yourself and your abilities and don't skip learning things in order.
2. Buy new equipment or used equipment no older than 1-3 years (50/100h).
3. From my personal experience as a young pilot who progressed quickly, I can recommend you a wing that I flew and still have, Sky Kudos 2 (EN-low B), my first glider, a very safe and secure glider, I spent over 60 hours in the air with it, I made my personal record of 102.6 km flown without a single non-green moment. I outgrew it and now I'm switching to EN-C. my first flight was 28.11.2022.
4. Hang out with your glider on the ground, practice on the school grounds, learn to take off, learn to hold the glider and control it. I used every opportunity to get as close as possible to the glider. this is just my opinion, I appreciate and respect everyone's advice.
Ridzuan Zulkiffli
396d
• Edited
for me, ask local pilot. what is the best. don't ask a dealer or instructor (if they also selling wing). For me, i would say Advance is the best. Now i'm also a dealer for this brand, because it would be easier for me to buy for myself. So now you may think my suggestion a bit bias, because i'm a dealer.
Mauri Kukkonen
405d
Best if you can demo some different wings and see what you like. Buy well known brand and you shouldn't have problems. If you buy second hand, make sure it's freshly inspected. Your instructor should help you choose. Since people like different things, there is no right answer here. If you like to hike nd fly from mountains, light weight A-glider might be best. If you mostly ridge soar at beach, some robust low B-wing might be better and so on. People don't usually stay long on beginner gliders, so might be better to search for used with low hours. Unless you have lots of money, and want to sell your little used glider for half a price, when you get more efficient wing.
