How to choose your paragliding instruments ?
When you embark on the exciting adventure of free flight and paragliding, it's essential to choose the right flight instruments to ensure you enhance your experience and performance in the open skies. In this article, we'll explore the different types of flight instruments available to paraglider pilots.
THE VARIOUS INSTRUMENTS FOR PARAGLIDING :
Variometer for paragliding :
The variometer, often abbreviated to "vario", is an essential instrument for any paraglider pilot. It measures the vertical speed of your flight, allowing you to detect ascents and descents, also poetically called "puking". The variometer gives this information on rate of climb or rate of sink via a more or less regular "beep-beep" sound signal, depending on the power of the thermal.
Variometer uses in paragliding :
- Detecting ascents and descents : The vario warns you when you are entering an ascending or descending zone, helping you to optimize your altitude.
- Navigation : Some varios incorporate GPS navigation functions to guide you on longer flights.
- Display : It's important to choose a vario with a display that's easy to read in flight, even in changing light conditions.
Altimeter for paragliding :
The altimeter is another crucial instrument for paraglider pilots. It measures your altitude relative to sea level, or to a reference frame of your choice, and informs you of your vertical position in the atmosphere. An accurate altimeter is essential for safe paragliding and navigation.
Uses of the altimeter in paragliding :
- Safety : Knowing your altitude is essential to avoid flying too low in relation to the landing area.
- Navigation : The altimeter helps you maintain a constant altitude and keep track of terrain variations. It also lets you know when you can make a transition.
- Choice of departure altitude : You can plan your departure altitude according to your destination and the weather and aerological conditions.
GPS for paragliding :
GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a versatile tool for paragliders. It offers remarkable positioning accuracy and can be used for navigation, flight logging and much more.
GPS uses in paragliding :
- Navigation : GPS guides you precisely to your destination and can show you important landmarks in flight.
- Flight recording : You can record your flights and review your performance later.
- Chat : Some GPS units allow you to connect with other pilots in flight to exchange information.
The GPS alti variometer for paragliding :
The GPS alti variometer, often abbreviated to "GPS alti vario", combines altimeter and variometer functions in a single instrument. This makes it a practical choice for many paraglider pilots.
Uses of the alti vario in paragliding :
- Tracking altitude and vertical speed : The alti vario offers a complete view of your vertical position and horizontal speed variations.
- Navigation : Some alti varios also integrate GPS functions for more advanced navigation.
The GPS alti variometer for paragliding :
The GPS alti variometer, often abbreviated to "GPS alti vario", combines altimeter and variometer functions in a single instrument. This makes it a practical choice for many paraglider pilots.
Uses of the alti vario in paragliding :
- Tracking altitude and vertical speed : The alti vario offers a complete view of your vertical position and horizontal speed variations.
- Navigation : Some alti varios also integrate GPS functions for more advanced navigation.
CRITERIA FOR CHOOSING YOUR PARAGLIDING INSTRUMENTS :
Now that we've looked at the different types of paragliding instruments, it's time to consider the criteria for choosing the right equipment for you.
The range of paragliding instruments :
When choosing your flight instruments, you'll generally come across three product ranges: the variometer, the alti variometers and the GPS alti-vario.
- Variometers : Variometer-type instruments come in 2 formats. Small, simple beep-beep units with no display, offering basic functions at an affordable price. They are ideal for beginners who want to familiarize themselves with flight equipment. They are also available in a more advanced format, with a screen for precise readout of climb and sink rates.
- Alti variometers : Alti Vario instruments offer a better balance between functionality and price. They are suitable for intermediate pilots who are looking to improve their flying experience and are beginning to consider longer flights.
- Alti Vario GPS : Alti Vario GPS instruments feature the latest technology and maximum precision. They are ideal for experienced pilots looking for top performance.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BRANDS OF PARAGLIDING INSTRUMENTS ?
The choice of brand is also important. Some brands, such as Syride, Flymaster and others, are well known in the field of paragliding flight instruments.
Buy your flight instruments from Air et Aventure
At Air et Aventure, we wholeheartedly recommend our partner Syride, who not only manufactures top-quality products in France, but also offers an extremely reliable and efficient after-sales service! In a similar vein, but with a more variometer-accessible product range, the French brand Stodeus is also very competitive !
At Air et Aventure, we carry all Syride products, as well as Stodeus. With our expert sales staff, we'll be able to advise you in your search for information and in the process of buying your flight instrument.
In conclusion, choosing the right paragliding instruments is essential for your flying pleasure, from take-off to landing. Brand reputation and reliability can play a part in your decision. Be sure to consider the specific uses of variometers, altimeters, GPS and alti variometers, as well as the product ranges and brands available on the market. Don't forget to take into account your level of experience as a paraglider pilot to find the equipment that best suits your needs. Enjoy your flight !
CRITERIA FOR CHOOSING YOUR PARAGLIDING INSTRUMENTS :
Now that we've looked at the different types of paragliding instruments, it's time to consider the criteria for choosing the right equipment for you.
The range of paragliding instruments :
When choosing your flight instruments, you'll generally come across three product ranges: the variometer, the alti variometers and the GPS alti-vario.
- Variometers : Variometer-type instruments come in 2 formats. Small, simple beep-beep units with no display, offering basic functions at an affordable price. They are ideal for beginners who want to familiarize themselves with flight equipment. They are also available in a more advanced format, with a screen for precise readout of climb and sink rates.
- Alti variometers : Alti Vario instruments offer a better balance between functionality and price. They are suitable for intermediate pilots who are looking to improve their flying experience and are beginning to consider longer flights.
- Alti Vario GPS : Alti Vario GPS instruments feature the latest technology and maximum precision. They are ideal for experienced pilots looking for top performance.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BRANDS OF PARAGLIDING INSTRUMENTS ?
The choice of brand is also important. Some brands, such as Syride, Flymaster and others, are well known in the field of paragliding flight instruments.
Buy your flight instruments from Air et Aventure
At Air et Aventure, we wholeheartedly recommend our partner Syride, who not only manufactures top-quality products in France, but also offers an extremely reliable and efficient after-sales service! In a similar vein, but with a more variometer-accessible product range, the French brand Stodeus is also very competitive !
At Air et Aventure, we carry all Syride products, as well as Stodeus. With our expert sales staff, we'll be able to advise you in your search for information and in the process of buying your flight instrument.
In conclusion, choosing the right paragliding instruments is essential for your flying pleasure, from take-off to landing. Brand reputation and reliability can play a part in your decision. Be sure to consider the specific uses of variometers, altimeters, GPS and alti variometers, as well as the product ranges and brands available on the market. Don't forget to take into account your level of experience as a paraglider pilot to find the equipment that best suits your needs. Enjoy your flight !
CONSULT THE GUIDE TO PARAGLIDING FLIGHT INSTRUMENTS :
Paragliding flight instruments : a complete guide to the right equipment
What paragliding flight instruments do I need ?
What's the difference between a variometers and a GPS ?
What are the best GPS variometers for paragliding ?
How much does a paragliding GPS-variometers cost ?
Using a paragliding GPS alti veriometer : how to use the flying device ?
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