Tandem accessories : the essentials for two-up paragliding
Paragliding is one of those aerial activities that combine the passion of flight with the beauty of sharing. If you've already tasted the pleasure of gliding through the air solo, now imagine the joy of sharing the experience in a paragliding tandem. But for this adventure to be a success in complete safety, it's essential to be properly equipped. In this article, we'll explore accessories for tandem paragliding, focusing on paraglider wings, harnesses and spreaders.
ACCESSORIES FOR TANDEM PARAGLIDERS
The wing is the central element of the paraglider, and tandem paraglider models are specially designed to support the weight of two people while offering an optimal flying experience. Tandem paragliders must be chosen with care, taking into account not only the total potential load of the crew, but also the environment in which they will be flying. Indeed, for flights on the seashore or in strong wind and breeze conditions, it may be wise to choose a wing with a smaller surface area, in order to achieve a higher cruising speed more suited to this type of spot.
Accessorizing tandem paragliders is limited because it's not necessarily necessary. Simply check that the ears are easily accessible on the wing, as this maneuver is widely used in tandem paragliding to ensure passenger comfort.
ACCESSORIES FOR TANDEM PARAGLIDER HARNESSES
Tandem paraglider harnesses can be further accessorized to suit specific needs. In tandem paragliding, it's important that both pilot and passenger are comfortable, and that the pilot has easy access to any accessories he or she may need. So harnesses should be chosen for their comfort, safety and adaptability. Storage pockets should be easily accessible, and a camera pocket can also be added, as well as spare airbag protection in case of complicated passenger landings.
SPREADERS FOR TWO-SEATER PARAGLIDERS
Spreaders are more than just accessories; they're essential for wing management and safety on tandem flights. They connect the pilot's and passenger's harnesses to the wing, and must be chosen with care to ensure they match the size of the user. There are three main families of tandem spreaders.
Rigid Tandem Spreaders
Rigid spreaders feature a rigid metal bar that keeps the pilot and passenger apart in flight. This improves the pilot's comfort, as he feels less pressure from the passenger between his legs in flight. On the passenger's side, it prevents him from feeling, for example, the pilot's knees on his back, or the support of equipment in the back pocket of the harness.
Soft Tandem Spreaders
Flexible paraglider spreaders have no bar. As a result, the pilot and passenger are glued together by the force of gravity. This means that the pilot must select and adjust his harness carefully to ensure his comfort and that of his passenger. A further advantage is that, since the pilot and passenger are one and the same, the center of gravity is more balanced, which can make piloting and harness movements more pleasant.
Children's spreaders
These spacers are specially designed for small passengers, especially children. They are designed to lower the passenger a little so that he or she is not in the pilot's field of vision, but not too much either, so that the child doesn't end up running alone during take-off and landing. This ensures greater safety for the passenger.
There's no best or worst among these families of spreaders. It's up to you to take your individual preferences into account and choose the equipment that best suits your needs and sensations.
In conclusion, whether you're an experienced pilot or preparing your first tandem paragliding experience, the right equipment is the key to a safe and enjoyable experience. From the tandem wing to the harness, tandem spreaders and accessories such as the rescue parachute and speed system, every detail counts.
Tandem paragliding is an adventure for two, but safety and comfort depend on the choices you make before you take off. Take the time to select the best equipment and accessories, and the sky will be the privileged witness of your shared moments.
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