Thinking about trying paragliding but you still have your doubts? Are you wondering whether you should go on and try it? Before jumping right into it, there are a couple of things you should keep in mind. In Overfly we want you to feel as comfortable as possible when you try paragliding for the first time (or maybe after some time). Because of this, in this post we are going to explain to you how to land a paraglider perfectly.
In Overfly we believe that paragliding is an experience that you should try at least once in your life. You will get that feeling in your stomach, the lightness of your feet and the sensation that the clouds are getting closer. And on the background, you can appreciate the Canary landscape that our island, Tenerife, has to offer.
Sightseeing is nothing compared to this. To fully comprehend why we love our island so much, you need to see it from the clouds. It does not matter whether you have experience or not, whether you are afraid of heights or not. Can you imagine seeing the Atlantic Ocean while you fly like a bird? And, what about the Teide? The limit is the sky and you will see as much as the horizon allows you!
But before we start to show you how to land a paraglider, we recommend you that if this is your first time trying paragliding, you should read these posts. We are sure you will find them very interesting and they will tell you everything you need to know about paragliding!
- How to choose the right paraglider → Tips to make the right choice
- Learning how to paraglide
- Which are the parts of a paraglider? Everything you need to know!
How to land a paraglider: techniques
So then, how to land a paraglider? We have to confess that it is not as difficult as it seems. Yeah, it is easy (kind of) to start flying. If the wind is favourable once you start running a little, you will be able to start paragliding. However, how do you land a paraglider? What do you have to do to stop it from flying and finally touch the ground? Keep reading and discover how!
Find your place: do not stop trying
To find the perfect place to land is key when you are learning how to land a paraglider. This is a constant process of trial and error where you will have to fight to finally find the best spot. It does not matter how many times you have to try, or how much time you have to spend looking for it.
It is important because sometimes some places might seem perfect to land on but the wind will not be in your favour, or maybe they might be too small for landing once you get closer. This is why you should try as many times as possible, so you get comfortable with it and you can make sure that you found your place.
The slopes and steeps are a sure bet
Slopes will make it easier for you to land. You will avoid landing vertically, which is a bit more difficult. In addition, you will not land directly on the ground, but rather slowly getting closer to in until you are finally on the ground.
When you are trying to learn how to land a paraglider, you should also take into consideration the wind. Going down a slope will change the inclination of your paraglide and therefore help you to have a favourable position against the wind.
Take your time, take it slow
It is a common mistake from beginners to rush into things and not taking their time at landing. However, this is crucial when learning how to land a paraglider. Even though we have mentioned before, you should not stress over finding the best spot the fastest as possible. Good things take time, and so does paragliding.
So, go slowly and patiently. It does not matter how much time it takes to find the best place to land, keep looking. Take into consideration how big is the space where you are planning to land, the wind, whether there are obstacles or not. Think beforehand and then, start descending and landing.
How to land a paraglider: tips and advices
You should know how to land a paraglider already, or at least have an idea on how to start. Still, there are some things we would like to remind you when you are paragliding for the first time and that will be also useful for you to make landing more comfortable.
Check out the weather
Do you check the weather before going on a hike or going to the beach? Of course, and so should you do if you are paragliding. It is not the same if the wind is strong, or if it is sunny. Every single detail could affect you flight and turn a wonderful experience into a bad memory.
First, wind always helps. If you are lucky, the ideal velocity for the wind would be around 15 km/h. For you to start flying, it has to come towards you so it pushes the paraglide towards the sky. It is also possible to do paragliding if there is no wind, but you will have to make a short run in order to achieve it.
Then, it is better if is cloudy rather than sunny because the sun can be annoying sometimes and take some of your visibility. It could be like driving east in the morning, the sun on your eyes and having difficulties to stare at the road in front of you. It is cloudy it does not matter whether you are heading east or west or the time of the day, the sun will not bother you anymore.
How should you sit on the paragliding harness
When you are learning how to land a paraglider, the way you put your legs is kind of important. We want to remind you that the position you take on the paragliding harness (the place where you will be seated) will also affect the way you will land and fly. It is all about aerodynamics!
So, if you are flying with an instructor, it is important that at the start you help him at the take-off and that you start running with him. However, during the landing process, it is not necessary that you use your legs. The monitor will take care of that and while they are doing it, you will have to blend your legs to make it easier for them to land.
Clothes you should wear on paragliding
Choose your outfit wisely when you are flying because the temperature is always lower than on the ground. The higher you are, the colder it gets. Just like when you are going hiking on a mountain, you should bring with you your warmest clothes. This includes long trousers, a long sleeve t-shirt and a coat.
Moreover, since you will be running down a hill sometimes, it is very important that you bring along some sport shoes. In general, wear the most comfortable clothes you have to forget about how cold or how tight your pants are to really enjoy the flight.
How much experience do you need?
You do not need too much experience to start learning how to land a paraglider. From your first flight, you will know how to land thanks to your monitors. They will explain everything to you beforehand so once you are flying you have no doubts about how to land a paraglider.
However, there are some things that require some experience. For example, landing on the top of a hill or flying when the wind is very strong. Take your time during your learning process and do not stress yourself if you feel helpless sometimes. It is normal for everyone to struggle sometimes, you will be alright!
Why flying in a paraglider with Overfly?
Do you know already how to land a paraglider? If you do not, there is nothing to worry. If you book a flight with us, our instructors will take care of you and explain everything you need to know. In Overfly we are always at your disposal to help you have the best experience of your life.
We have many years of experience on paragliding and we are totally in love with it. Once you meet our experts in flying with a paraglider, you will see that there is nothing to worry about. Whether you are an expert or a beginner, we will guide you through the whole process and work hard for you to have fun and enjoy.
If you have any doubts or questions that are still unsolved, contact us and we will solve all of them!
