One of the main reasons why a paraglider flies and can be steered by the pilot is the lift that is created when the wind blows into the glider. This aerodynamic phenomenon (lift) is the resultant of pressure forces acting on the paraglider wing perpendicular to the wind direction. It is the opposite of gravity, which pulls the glider down and makes it glide. In simple terms, the air flowing over the paraglider’s wing when it is in motion is accelerated because of its curved profile (the bulging shape of the wing at the sides). This creates a vacuum and sucks the glider into flight. It is this pressure difference that allows the glider to fly and slow down its fall.
The pilot can use the two handles to change the direction of the glider in flight<\/strong> by adjusting the lift. The paraglider pilot can also control the speed and altitude of the glider in flight using the wing’s lines. As a reminder, the lines of a paraglider are constructed with an x-pattern so that they resist bending when pressure is applied to them. They are often reinforced with Dyneema, Spectra or Kevlar for extra strength and safety. The paraglider’s fabric is usually made of nylon, as is the fabric of a parachute.<\/p>\n\n\n\n