WHICH EN B PARAGLIDER TO CHOOSE ?
Choosing an EN B paraglider is a crucial step for intermediate pilots wishing to progress in their flying. These gliders offer an excellent combination of performance and safety, making them ideal for cross-country flying, paragliding sites and mountain adventures. In this guide, we'll take you through the various criteria you need to consider when choosing the right B glider for you.
EN B PARAGLIDER FOR PROGRESS
Paragliders with EN B certification are specially designed to enable intermediate pilots to progress in their paragliding, while retaining the thrills of paragliding and flying in complete safety. Ideal for advanced paragliding, they offer good stability, inspiring confidence in the pilot's flight, take-off and landing. What's more, these wings enable pilots to develop their flying skills, particularly when it comes to more advanced maneuvers and long-distance flying. Today, most paraglider brands such as Niviuk, Skywalk, Supair and Gin offer a range of EN B wings in their catalog.
CHOOSING YOUR EN B GLIDER ACCORDING TO YOUR TFW
When choosing an EN B glider, it's essential that the paraglider pilot takes into account and calculates his or her TWA (Total In-Flight Weight). Each glider is designed to perform optimally within a specific weight range. If your weight is close to the upper or lower limits of the manufacturer's recommended T.F.W. range, this can have an impact on the wing's performance and handling comfort. Be sure to check the manufacturer's specifications to select a glider suitable for your weight.
CHOOSING YOUR EN B GLIDER ACCORDING TO ITS USE
Choosing an EN B wing also depends on how you intend to use it. This point is universal, whatever the category of wing you choose. If you're keen on cross-country flying and looking for high performance, opt for a glider with better glide ratio and higher top speed. This generally corresponds to wings with a higher aspect ratio. On the other hand, if you prefer more leisurely flying and exploring of flying sites, opt for a glider offering greater stability and passive safety.
WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN AN EN B AND AN EN B+ WING ?
Generally speaking, wings with an aspect ratio of less than 5.5 are classic EN B wings. Above that, (and more specifically 5.7-5.8), they're referred to as EN B+ wings. In flight, these wings are characterized by a tighter wing profile and generally higher performance. The downside is that the longer the EN B wing, the faster and more precise the pilot's reactions in the event of an incident.
This is often assessed in terms of the wing's tendency to dive negatively in turns.
Conclusion
EN B paragliders are an excellent choice for intermediate pilots who are progressing in their paragliding but still enjoy flying. Their stability, safety and performance make them versatile equipment for a wide range of paragliding activities, from cross-country to rando flying. Take into account your level of piloting, your PTV and your flying objectives to choose the B paraglider that will enable you to enjoy rewarding flying experiences in complete safety. It's best if this isn't your first flight with an EN B wing. Don't forget to check out popular brands and models to find the glider that best suits your needs. Enjoy your flight !
DISCOVER OUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO PARAGLIDING WINGS :
Paragliding gliders: choosing the right flight equipment
Paragliding : discover all types of wings and their uses
How to choose your paraglider : Selection criteria
Which paraglider is right for you ?
Paraglider comparison: finding the best equipment
Which EN A paraglider to choose ?
How much does a paraglider cost ? Criteria influencing price