Paragliding: How to Get Started and Stay Safe
If you’ve ever looked up at a flyer drifting in the sky and thought, "I want to do that," you’re not alone. Paragliding is one of the easiest ways to experience free flight, and you don’t need a huge budget or a lot of paperwork. All you need is the right gear, a solid safety routine, and a good spot to launch.
First things first – understand what a paraglider actually is. It’s a lightweight wing made of rip‑stop fabric, connected to a harness and a small brake system. You control direction by pulling the brakes and steer with weight shifts. The whole system is designed to be safe for beginners, but the sky can be unpredictable, so preparation matters.
Essential Gear and Safety Checks
Before you ever step onto a hill, do a quick gear check. Look for any tears or broken lines on the wing, make sure the risers are clean, and verify that the brakes move freely. Your harness should fit snugly but comfortably – you don’t want it to chafe or feel loose during a launch.
Wear a helmet, a sturdy pair of gloves, and appropriate footwear. Boots with good ankle support help you keep balance while you run off the hill. Many pilots also use a windmeter, a simple handheld device that tells you the wind speed at the launch site. Aim for winds between 5‑15 mph; stronger winds can push you too hard, while very light winds may not lift the wing.Check the weather forecast. Look for clear skies, no rain, and a steady wind direction. Avoid flying when there’s a chance of thunderstorms, high turbulence, or sudden gusts. A quick glance at a local flying club’s forecast page can save you a lot of trouble.
Best UK Locations for Your First Flight
The UK has plenty of gentle hills that are perfect for beginners. The South Downs, especially near Eastbourne, offers wide open spaces and consistent sea breezes. The Lake District’s Grizedale Forest has well‑marked launch zones and friendly local pilots who can give you tips.
If you’re closer to the east, the Chiltern Hills provide long, grassy slopes that are ideal for learning basic control. In Scotland, the Cairngorms have easy launch points with spectacular scenery – just make sure the wind isn’t too cold for your gloves.
When you arrive at a site, walk the launch area first. Look for obstacles like trees, fences, or power lines. A clear line of sight for at least 200 meters ahead is a good rule of thumb. If you’re unsure, ask a local pilot or join a short introductory course. Most clubs run a “trial flight” session where you can watch a launch, get a brief on‑ground lesson, and then try a short tandem flight.
Once you’re ready to launch, run straight into the wind, keep the wing above your head, and pull both brake lines gently to inflate the wing. As the wing lifts, ease off the brakes and let the wing pull you forward. Keep your body relaxed, hips forward, and look where you want to go.
Landing is just as important as taking off. Aim for a gentle touchdown on a flat, grassy area. Keep the brakes slightly pulled as you approach, and let the wing settle onto the ground. If you feel the wing pulling too hard, release a little brake to reduce speed.
Paragliding can become a lifetime hobby once you get the basics down. Start slow, respect the weather, and always do a gear check before each flight. With a little practice, you’ll soon be soaring over fields, coastlines, and hills, feeling the freedom that only the sky can give.
