Chosing the Right Paraglider

Choosing the Right Paraglider Class: A Comprehensive Guide

At XC Wings, we believe in offering a wide selection of the best paragliding gear. We test numerous wings from top brands to provide personalized advice to our customers. This hands-on experience allows us to compare different wings and understand how each class performs. As certification tests evolve and technology advances, the characteristics of wings in each class change. This article aims to analyse the handling differences and guide you in choosing the right paraglider class.

Understanding Paraglider Class Divisions

Pilots often have varied expectations about wing categories. Relying solely on EN ratings can be misleading. Here's our breakdown of the main paraglider classes:

1. First Paragliders

Ideal for: First-time pilots. Flying up to 30 hours in a year in school/club environment.
EN Rating: A
EN-A paragliders are designed for beginners. They offer solid handling with surprisingly good performance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable introduction to the sport. With the advancement of modern designing in todays day and Age good pilots easily achieve cross country distances of more than 100km on EN A Gliders. So if you are

2. Progression Paragliders

Ideal for: Pilots ready for their first upgrade, talented students. Having more than 30 Hours of Flying in thermic conditions.
EN Rating: B ( Low B – Mid B gliders subject to pilot assessment by instructors)
Progression wings are a step up from training gliders. They are easy to fly, offer lots of passive safety, and are perfect for pilots transitioning from their first wing.

3. XC Paragliders

Ideal for: Experienced pilots seeking handling and performance: Flying More than 50 Hours in a year in various conditions and sites.
EN Rating: B (Mid B - High-B)
XC wings offer a balance of handling, security, and enjoyment. They require some active piloting and are not suitable for new pilots. Expect sporty handling and low-energy collapse recovery.

4. Sports Paragliders

Ideal for: Experienced pilots focused on performance and distance flying.  
EN Rating: C (or high B) Flying atleast 100 Hours in a year in various thermic and strong conditions. .
Sports wings provide exceptional performance for experienced pilots. They are resilient in turbulence and offer great handling for thermaling. These wings are often rated EN C but can include the hottest EN Bs. The gliders are well suited in participating Sports Class Competitions and Race Series. 

 

5. Performance Paragliders

Ideal for: Advanced pilots focused on XC racing
EN Rating: D (or hot C)
Performance wings are designed for maximum glide efficiency and speed. With high aspect ratios and narrow tips, they demand constant attention and active flying. These wings are for advanced pilots only flying more than 150 hours in a year.

6. Competition Paragliders (CCC)

Ideal for: Top-tier competitive pilots
EN Rating: CCC
Competition wings are for pilots who regularly compete at the highest levels. They offer the ultimate in performance and handling, suitable for those aiming to fly international competitions.

Paraglider Subclasses

Within each class, there are variations and unique characteristics that make some wings more suitable for specific pilots or environments. Professional advice is essential before purchasing a paraglider to ensure it meets your needs and flying conditions.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right paraglider class depends on your skill level, flying style, and goals. At XC Wings, we are committed to helping you find the perfect wing. Our extensive experience with various wings allow us to provide tailored recommendations to match your individual needs.

For more information or personalized advice, visit www.xcwings.com and explore our range of top-quality paragliders. Happy flying!