The rescue parachute is an essential part of your paragliding safety. Although it is not compulsory, it is strongly recommended.
There are different types of rescue parachutes:
rounds, squares, ultra light ... They're becoming increasingly compact and lightweight, making them easier to forget! Adaptable to all harnesses, they are usually fitted under the seat of your harness, in a pocket provided for this purpose, but can also be fitted in a ventral container for very light 'string' type harnesses, for more mobile use.
the round rescue parachute : is the traditional first aid. Compact and easy to fold, it's often the one we use in schools because it takes up so little space. Easy to fold, it's also the cheapest.
the square rescue parachute : It's the Rolls Royce in terms of safety. More technical in its design, this 'new generation' parachute improves the fall rate and opens in less than 3 seconds! A little bulky, it will also cost more than a round parachute, and will require a little concentration when repacking.
the light rescue parachute : The 2 versions, round and square, are available in light and ultra-light versions. The smallest parachutes, like Skywalk's tapa X-Alps, can weigh up to 780g!
Don't hesitate to contact us to find yours, and we'll help you install it in your harness when you buy from us.
Approval :
All paragliding rescue parachutes are subject to European approval. EN 12491To do this, they have to pass a number of tests:
- The opening time must be less than 5s,
- The shock on opening must not exceed 15g,
- Pendulum stability (observation from the ground of the stabilisation of pendulum movements). A parachute that is too unstable will be readjusted (and in any case, instability increases the sink rate...).
- Fall rate: after a minimum fall of 100m, the measurement is taken over the last 30 metres before "ditching" → Max 5.5m/s.
To ensure that it opens effectively, manufacturers recommend that it be re-bound every year. Tutorials are available to help you, but if you're not sure, don't hesitate to call in a professional or a sail inspection centre.