What is a Paraglider

The photo shows a paraglider just after it has taken off.

It is made entirely of fabric and string. The fabric forms a hollow wing which is inflated by the wind blowing into holes at the front. There are no rigid parts, it is just the air pressure which keeps it in shape, a bit like an inflatable beach toy. When you land, you simply roll it up and put it back in its bag.

You sit in a harness, which is suspended from the wing by many fine strings - you can just see them in the photo. You can slow down, speed up and turn left or right by pulling some of the strings, which warp the back of the wing.

Paragliding is more popular than hang gliding because a paraglider is lighter than a hang glider and it flies slower, both of which make it easier to learn. HOME