Choosing the Right Reserve Parachute: A Comprehensive Guide

Paragliding is an absolutely amazing experience! It is an exhilarating sport that allows you to experience the freedom of flight. However, as with any ‘extreme’ activity, safety should be your top priority.

One of the most critical pieces of safety equipment in your paraglider’s arsenal is a reserve parachute. A must piece of equipment when you are flying in the sky. Why a reserve parachute is so paramount? In an emergency, a reserve parachute can mean the difference between a minor scare and an absolute catastrophic outcome. It is the chute you deploy if your wing should fail – meaning it is the last thing that has the potential to keep you suspended in the air. As such, choosing the right reserve parachute is essential for your safety. This guide will help you navigate the process!

Why You Need a Reserve Parachute

Even the most skilled pilots can encounter an unforeseen situations such as sudden turbulence. A wing collapsing or mid-air collisions are other issues you may encounter in the sky that you may need a reserve parachute for. So what is the difference between your wing and your chute? Your main wing is designed for controlled flight, while your reserve parachute is your ultimate safety net when things go wrong.

A properly chosen and maintained reserve parachute:

Provides you with a reliable backup when the main wing fails.
Increases your confidence during flights.
Can save your life in emergencies.

Types of Reserve Parachutes

Reserve parachutes come in several designs, each with unique advantages and considerations. Understanding the differences is key to choosing the right one for your needs. Below, we’ll go through the basics of the different types, shapes, and the ‘why’ behind them being your best pick for a reserve.

1. Round Reserve Parachutes

Overview: This is a traditional reserve shape with a circular canopy.
Advantages:
- Simple design and reliable performance.
- Generally more affordable than other types of reserves.
- Stable decent with minimal oscillation.
- Usually easier to repack.
Disadvantages:
- No maneuverability.

2. Square Reserve Parachutes

Overview: A more modern alternative to round reserves with a squared or rectangular shape.
Advantages:
- Improved descent rates compared to round reserves.
- Reduced oscillation for a smoother ride.
- Better stability during deployment.
Disadvantages:
- Can be more expensive.
- No maneuverability.

3. Steerable Reserve Parachutes Rogallo types

Overview: A great reserves that allow directional control during descent.
Advantages:
- Pilots can use this reserve to steer to avoid obstacles and land in safer areas.
- Enhanced control compared to non-steerable designs.
- Low descent rates and smooth landings.
- Ideal for avoiding obstacles or landing in tight spaces.
Disadvantages:
- Requires some additional training to use effectively.
- More expensive and complex to deploy.
- Requires more packing expertise.
- Heavier and bulkier than other options.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Reserve Parachute

1. Certification and Standards

Look for reserve parachutes that meet industry safety standards, such as EN 12491 or LTF 91/09. These certifications ensure that the parachute model has been rigorously tested for reliability and performance.

2. Weight and Pack Volume

Your reserve parachute should be light enough to carry comfortably but durable enough to provide adequate protection. If you’re a hike-and-fly pilot, prioritize compact and lightweight designs.

3. Sink/Decent Rate

A reserve parachute’s sink rate will determine how quickly you descend. The ideal sink rate is under 5.5 m/s to minimize the impact on landing. Square and Rogallo reserves often have better sink rates than traditional round designs.

4. Compatibility with Your Paragliding Harness

You should ensure that your reserve fits securely in your harness’s reserve container. Check whether your harness has a front-mounted, side-mounted, or under-seat reserve compartment, and select a parachute designed for that configuration.

5. Deployment System

The deployment system should be intuitive and reliable. Test the deployment procedure during practice runs to ensure you can deploy the reserve quickly and efficiently in an emergency.

6. Maneuverability

If you often fly in areas with potential obstacles, a steerable reserve (like a Rogallo) may be worth the investment. While this particular type of reserve parachute requires additional training, the ability to guide your descent can significantly increase safety in more complicated areas.

How to Size Your Reserve Parachute

The size of your reserve parachute is very important in ensuring a safe descent. Reserves are typically rated based on the pilot’s total flying weight, which includes:

Your body weight.
Your gear weight (harness, helmet, instruments, etc.).

Example: If your body weight is 85 kg and your gear weighs 15 kg, your total flying weight is 100 kg. Choose a reserve parachute rated for weights slightly above your total weight to ensure optimal performance. It’s common practice to add 10 to 15 KG extra to the weight range of the reserve compare to your Total weight in flight.

Packing and Maintenance Tips

A reserve parachute is only effective if it’s properly packed and maintained. Follow these tips to keep your reserve in top condition:

Regular Repacking: Repack your reserve every 6 months or as recommended by the manufacturer. This ensures the lines don’t tangle and the fabric remains in good condition.
Dry Storage: Always store your reserve in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture damage.
Inspection: Regularly inspect the canopy, lines, and deployment bag for signs of wear or damage (raying, discolouration, any other noticeable change).
Professional Assistance: Unsure about packing your reserve? Seek help from a local certified professional.

Top Reserve Parachute Recommendations

Some highly-rated reserve parachutes you may wish to consider if you are seeking a new addition to your paragliding setup:

1. SupAir X LITE 80 Ultra-light

Type: Square Reserve
Key Features:
- Lightweight and compact.
- Stable descent with low sink rates.
Best For: Hike-and-fly pilots and those seeking a modern, reliable reserve.

SUPAIR X LITE

2. Supair Shine Solo

Type: Round Reserve
Key Features:
- Typically more affordable and simple to use.
- High durability and reliability.
Best For: Budget-conscious pilots or beginners.

supair shine solo

3. Gin Yeti Cross

Type: Square Reserve
Key Features:
- Ultralight design for minimal pack volume.
- Smooth deployment and low oscillation.
Best For: Pilots who prioritize weight savings.

gin yeti cross

4. Ozone Angel SQ Pro

Type: Square
Key Features:
- Exceptional stability and low descent rates.
Best For: Advanced pilots flying in challenging environments.

OZONE ANGEL SQ PRO

When to Deploy Your Reserve Parachute

Knowing exactly when to deploy your reserve is just as important as choosing the right one. Deploy your reserve if:

You experience a full-wing collapse and cannot recover.
You encounter a mid-air collision or irreparable wing damage.
Your descent rate is uncontrollable.

Always deploy early rather than waiting until it’s too late. A reserve parachute takes time to fully inflate and stabilize your descent.

TIP
It it a good idea to check your reserve handle to make sure the pins are still properly hooked before every take off.

TIP : When is it a good idea to throw your reserve? :

if you are pushed back behind the ridge on a windy day >> throw it
If after a flight incident you realize you have broken lines >> throw it
Riser twist. IE if after a flight incident you find you have too many twist >> throw it
Your glider is stuck in a spiral and you can’t exit it >> throw it

For these reasons, it’s safe to say this piece of paragliding equipment is incredibly important!

Conclusion

As we discussed, choosing the right reserve parachute is a critical decision that can significantly impact your safety and confidence while paragliding. Now that you understand the types of reserves available, considering key factors like size and compatibility, and prioritizing regular maintenance, you can ensure your reserve is ready when you need it most.

Remember, the best reserve parachute is the one you know how to use effectively. AKA: Take the time in practicing! Practice deployments, familiarize yourself with your equipment, and keep it in top condition with proper maintenance and storage. With the right reserve parachute, you can enjoy the skies with peace of mind, knowing you’re prepared for any unexpected challenges.

Fly safe (and happy landings)!

FAQ about Paragliding Reserve Parachutes

When should I deploy my reserve parachute? Deploy your reserve immediately in situations like mid-air collisions, canopy collapses that don’t recover quickly, line failures, structural failure of your main wing, or any time you’re in an uncontrollable situation where you’re falling rather than flying.
How often should I repack my reserve parachute? Most manufacturers recommend repacking every 6-12 months. Some countries and clubs have mandatory repacking intervals. Regular repacking ensures the parachute will open properly when deployed and prevents material deterioration from long-term compression.
What types of reserve parachutes are available for paragliding? The main types are round reserves (most common and reliable), square reserves (better stability and sink rate), rogallo reserves (steerable), and specialized systems like front-mounted reserves or backup systems. Each has different characteristics regarding opening speed, stability, and descent rate.
Where should the reserve handle be positioned? The reserve handle should be positioned where you can easily reach and grab it with either hand. The most common positions are on the side of the harness or on the front of the harness near your chest. You should be able to locate it instantly without looking.
What is the typical descent rate with a deployed reserve parachute? Most reserve parachutes descend at 4-6.5 meters per second (about 13-21 feet per second), depending on the design and load. This rate is considered survivable but can still result in injuries upon landing.
How do I properly deploy my reserve in an emergency? Look at the handle, grab it firmly, pull it out with force, and throw it as hard as possible away from your paraglider and into clear air. After deployment, try to pull in your main paraglider to prevent interference with the reserve.
How long does a reserve parachute typically last before needing replacement? Most manufacturers recommend replacing reserve parachutes every 10 years, even with minimal use. However, this depends on storage conditions, usage, and manufacturer recommendations. Some pilots replace them more frequently for added safety.
Should I practice reserve deployments? Yes, practice deployments are strongly recommended. Many paragliding schools and safety clinics offer simulated reserve throws using training rigs. Regular practice helps build muscle memory for emergency situations when stress levels are high.
What should I do after my reserve parachute deploys? After deployment, prepare for landing by assuming the PLF (Parachute Landing Fall) position – feet and knees together, knees slightly bent, and ready to roll upon impact. Try to control your main paraglider by pulling it in if possible to prevent interference with the reserve.
Do I need to match my reserve size to my weight? Yes, reserves are sized according to weight ranges. Using an undersized reserve can result in a dangerous descent rate, while an oversized one may not deploy efficiently. Your total flying weight (including gear) should fall within the specified weight range of your reser