{"id":2122,"date":"2021-08-02T00:43:48","date_gmt":"2021-08-01T22:43:48","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/parapente-mexico.com\/?p=2122"},"modified":"2021-10-04T11:03:38","modified_gmt":"2021-10-04T09:03:38","slug":"comparaison-parapente-deltaplane","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/parapente-mexico.com\/en\/hang-gliding\/hangglider-vs-paraglider-comparison\/","title":{"rendered":"Paragliding or hang-gliding?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Choose paragliding or hang-gliding?<\/h2>\n

They are both similar and different.
\nParagliding and hang-gliding are two \u201cPUL\u201d (ultra light gliders). That is to say that they can be taken off on foot, by the muscular force of the pilot alone. Here we discuss their similarities and differences, via a comparison. Like rugby and football, hang-gliding and paragliding each have their aficionados, and their detractors. Opinions are divergent depending on whether one addresses one or the other. I practice both, so maybe I'll be more objective and nuanced.<\/p>\n

Delta and paragliding learning<\/h2>\n

A sign that does not deceive: during the training in hang-gliding or paragliding, your instructor will give you a free flight passport which will accompany you during your teaching.
\nThis booklet is to make sure that you have seen the different points of the training.
\n90% of these points are similar. Special features, when applicable, are simply identified by a corresponding icon as shown below:
\n\"ffvl<\/a><\/p>\n

In my opinion, the delta requires a little longer learning on a school slope to get to the first flight (when you start from zero), but then you get to thermal flight more quickly, because the wing is easier to master. The delta approach needs to be built, in paragliding you can \u201cimprovise\u201d a little more. On takeoff, there is less room for error (difficult to stop when you are launched), but the profile is already in shape, since the wing has been mounted. No problem with keys, ties, turning the harness ... <\/p>\n

Delta and paraglider position<\/h2>\n

Have you ever seen a bird fly showing you its ass?<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Almost 20 years ago, I remember this interesting remark from a German hang glider, I met in Italy: A point for him. <\/p>\n

In hang-gliding we are lying down with our heads forward. For that alone we are closer to the flight of the bird. But in the long run this position can be less comfortable than the sitting position of the paraglider, especially for the neck. We can retort that we get used to this position ... question of training! In paragliding, you are comfortably seated and you mainly steer with your hands, which operate flaps on the trailing edge. <\/p>\n

History of the hang glider and paragliding<\/h2>\n

Historically the delta was born first. Francis Rogallo gave his name to the first wing which resembled a delta. An engineer at NASA, he was working on a way to bring down the \u201cboosters\u201d of American rockets. Compared to a hemispherical parachute, its system made it possible to glide and be airship. But NASA did not follow through. Rogallo offers his patent to the community, and goes down in history.
\nIn November 1961, \u201cPopular Mechanics\u201d published an article on the \u201cflex wing\u201d. Shortly after, plans were sold by mail order, several thousand copies. The principle is generally the same, but the original structure is stiffened by a frame, which allows to take off with. From there handymen are busy in their garage. The tubes are first in bamboo, then in aluminum. Australians are also developing the concept on their side. <\/p>\n

This very interesting documentary retraces the history of the delta:<\/p>\n