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The Difference Between Hang Gliding and Paragliding
from: Maxx Sports GuidesHave you ever wondered how hang gliders were invented? In the 1960s a couple of water skiers, who probably got bored with just gliding on the water, wondered what it would be like to soar above the water. With a bit of brainstorming, they hooked themselves up to a couple of kites and got back on their water skis.
When the boat started pulling them, air caught hold of the kite and suddenly they found themselves above the water. With lots of trail and error, hang gliders has developed into a sport where people are launching themselves off of mountains and not just from water!
Paragliding started in Europe with those daredevils who loved the thrill of skydiving as well as jumping off cliffs. The first attempts amounted to nothing more than a parachute attached to their back. With a few modifications, we have what paragliding is today. They probably thought, “I wonder if we can fly by doing this?” and thus paragliding is born.
The main difference between hang gliding and paragliding is how the wings are structured. Hang glider wings resemble a V-shape and are constructed with a sold frame as opposed to a paragliding wing structure, which is soft, and more of an oval-shape. Another second main difference is that paragliding does have a learning curve since its flight is at a slower speed. A hang glider is heavier because of the solid structure of the wings, which weigh between 70-100 pounds. On the other hand, a paraglider can be carried in a large backpack. Also, hang gliders have the speed, but rely more on the conditions than paragliders do.
In addition to the shape of their canopies, their structure is also difference between hang gliding and paragliding. A paragliding canopy is a lot thinner and thus more susceptible to ultra violet rays which could destroy the canopy. Since a hang gliding canopy is made from sturdier material, it isn't affected as much by ultra violet rays.
Safety conditions between both are basically the same and normally the equipment isn't the reason. Attitude reached by the pilot goes a long way towards safety. If a pilot tends to be reckless and has little regard for the elements or fellow pilots, there could be some safety issues. Most extreme sports are participated in by people who are considered mavericks and simply refuse to go along with perceived norms. This lead to lots of creativity and adventure, but when taken to an extreme, could be very dangerous.
You must take into consideration a few things before deciding to invest in either hang gliding or paragliding. If you have a family and plan on bringing your kids with you for the adventure, it could be a real challenge. You should keep in mind that a hang glider doesn't fold easily and is very cumbersome to set up and dismantle.
When you reach your destination, are you the one going to the top of the mountain or will the entire family come along? Do you expect to take a tram or drive. Once you arrive, is there going to be somewhere for your family to relax and wacth the launch? Or are they going to have to be shuffled back in the vehicle to the location you're going to land?
Of course, the real hang gliding enthusiasts and their family aren't that concerned when compared to the thrill of flying or supporting the family member who's planning to jump from the mountain.
Paragliding can be much more spontaneous since you can toss (respectfully, of course) your paraglider into your vehicle or the back of your motorcycle and you're ready to go. You don't necessarily have to launch from a mountaintop, although lots of people do.
The final choice is yours and will largely depend on your lifestyle. Regardless of which one you choose, either hang gliding or paragliding, you'll have an experience you'll never forget.
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