Buying your first paraglider - EN-A buying guide 2026
You have finished your first licence training or are close to it, and now the hard question starts: which paraglider is actually right for your weight, budget and flying style? We advise from pilot to pilot so your first wing builds confidence instead of stress.
A paraglider is a steerable, non-motorised aircraft launched on foot.
The five biggest mistakes when buying a first paraglider
These are the problems we see when pilots buy without a proper size and safety check.
1. Choosing too much wing class - For the first 100+ hours, EN-A is usually the cleanest and safest start.
2. Buying the wrong size - All-up flying weight must be calculated before choosing a size.
3. Buying used without inspection - Cloth, lines, trim and history need a professional check.
4. Mixing parts instead of building a system - Wing, harness, reserve and helmet must work together.
5. Buying from reviews instead of your flying profile - Weight, site, ambition and handling matter more than a generic test result.
What is an EN-A paraglider?
- Low aspect ratio for forgiving behaviour
- High passive safety under EN 926 testing
- Easy launch behaviour in light wind
- Calm handling for training and the first flying years
All-up flying weight: the decisive number
All-up flying weight is your body weight plus clothing, harness, reserve, helmet, instruments, water and rucksack. A useful estimate is body weight plus 15 to 20 kg.
Avoid the classic first-wing mistake
Send us your weight, budget and flying goal. We will check the right EN-A setup with you.
Start WhatsApp adviceBeginner questions
What is an EN-A paraglider?
EN-A is the safest certification class under EN 926 and is well suited to training, early flying years and relaxed flying.
What does all-up flying weight mean?
It is the total flying weight: pilot, clothing, harness, reserve, helmet, instruments and luggage.
When should I buy my first paraglider?
Usually after training or shortly before completion, once size, skill level and flying goals are clear.