Top Gun Flight School

At iParaglide Top Gun Flight School, we take pride in having taught over 1900 paragliding students in our 26 years of operation.

We are the the longest running school based in Metro Vancouver. Due to our central location, we are the only school that flies all of the relevant kiting parks, training hills and mountains within a 3 hour radius of Vancouver.  This empowers pilots to get to know the key training and flying spots early, optimizes and accelerates learning, and allows them to grow into great future pilots.  

We have the reputation of being an industry leader with an emphasis on engineered safety systems, quality instruction, the finest equipment and a positive learning environment for fun and empowering flying.

We offer the highest level of accreditation, with Senior HPAC and Advanced USHPA paragliding instructors, who coach from first flight to expert paraglider pilots and teach and qualify new paragliding instructors.

Top Gun References

We recently graduated a CF-18 Hornet Pilot from our Top Gun iP2 Novice Paragliding Pilot program.  Read about his impressions of iParaglide.

Social Links

iParaglide Location

Located at 962 - 51st Street Tsawwassen, near Vancouver, BC, Canada, for all your paragliding needs. We are ideally situated just minutes away from the finest training hill at Diefenbaker Park.

iParaglide Flying Sites

We are central to paragliding sites in the Vancouver, Chilliwack, Pemberton, Whistler, Bellingham and Seattle area so students enjoy maximum variety and we can work with weather to optimize selection of the best location each day.

Right Stuff Equipment

We regularly test fly the latest paragliding gear and select only the very finest for our iParaglide Right Stuff Paragliding Equipment Store. This ensures our paraglider pilots enjoy a state of the art performance and safety advantage to accelerate their learning curve.

Paragliding Webcams/Wind Stations

Vancouver Paragliding Webcams - get a view of cloud base to plan your paragliding cross country flight adventure.

Woodside Mtn Webcam

Woodside Wind Station

Bridal Webcam

Bridal Wind Station

Chilliwack Webcam

Hope Webcam 

Pemberton Webcam

Tsawwassen Webcam

Bellingham Bay Webcam

Tiger Mtn Webcam 

Friday
Dec132019

2) Swing Mirage RS Plus: Speed Flying & Speed Riding

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Mirage RS Plus
Speed Wing

In recent years the Mirage RS has proved to be a safe all-round paraglider for Speed Flying and Speed Riding.

Many top pilots in the paragliding scene (including the Soul Flyers, Valentin Deluc and many of the world’s other best pilots) have confidence in its forgiving flight behaviour in conjunction with its broad performance spectrum.

With the Mirage RS Plus, Swing is introducing a reworked version of this classic glider. The tried and tested basic concept remains unchanged, but the canopy has been upgraded with a new, very lightweight 15dtex fabric. This gives pilots a weight advantage and means a smaller pack size and even more uncomplicated launch behaviour compared to the previous model.

There have also been improvements to the riser used in the Mirage RS Plus. The optimised trimmer system allows even more precise adjustments to the angle of attack, with a deflector on the B level. The reworked riser geometry makes the Mirage RS Plus even easier to handle and ensures an intuitive connection to the canopy. In addition to other design details, Swing has optimised trimmer operation. A T-handle at the free end of the trimmer strap replaces the previous loop, to allow fast and safe operation, even with thick gloves. 

Technical Highlights

  • RAST – for improved canopy stability and performance

  • proven, efficient and safe canopy profile from the Mirage RS, for the best all-round features

  • shark-nose technology for greater stability at low angles of attack

  • 3D shaping for perfect profile accuracy and sail tension

  • new riser with optimised trimmer-system, for a better feel and intuitive connection to the canopy

  • new, very lightweight and robust 15dtex canopy fabric for minimal canopy weight and pack size

  • 3 new colour schemes, allowing greater individuality

  • 7 sizes: PRO, 8.5, 9.5, 11, 13, 15, 17 Twin – for a large selection with a wide range of uses

     

Target Market

  • Mirage RS Plus Pro/8.5 for Professionals and Top pilots
  • Mirage RS Plus 9.5/11 for Intermediate to Advanced pilots
  • Mirage RS Plus 13/15 for Training, Novice and Intermediate pilots
  • Mirage RS Plus 17 Twin for Tandem flying and XLarge Solo Novice pilots

The Pro - 8.5 Mirage RS Plus sizes are for select pilots that have mastered speed flying and riding and are either professionals or top ace pilots, where top speed, agility and dive, combined with conditions can still be handled within reasonable safety margins. There is little to no scope for error on these wings. When in doubt, we recommend choosing a larger size. 

Sizes 9.5 - 11 are for those seasoned intermediate to advanced pilots that get off the beaten track capable and comfortable handling the increased dynamics of increased loading.

Sizes 13 - 15 are the most suitable for training, novices and intermediates who want more passive safety. The trimmer travel is ideal for speed flying novices. The dampened handling in these sizes is very forgiving and is a great help during the learning curve.

In addition, 13 - 15 sizes are also ideally suited for soaring in strong winds or ground-handling, or for those needing a rapid descent method for hike & fly.

Mirage RS Plus 17 Twin is for speed flying tandem flights. With the extended load test,  a reinforced line system and a riser specially optimised for tandem mode with two hangpoint heights, the Mirage RS Plus 17 Twin is ideally suited for safe tandem flights and also for heavier speed flying / speed riding novices.



 

 

 

Swing Mirage RS Plus Speed Wing Manual

Swing Mirage RS Plus Speed Wing Lineplan

 

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Mirage RS Plus Speed Wing

Friday
Dec132019

3) Swing Spitfire 2 Plus: Speed Riding Wing

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Spitfire 2 Speed Riding Wing

The Spitfire 2 Plus is a classy Speed Rider, based on the core concept for the classic version. It has direct and uncompromising handling and feels completely at home on the powder slopes of mountains. The new, very lightweight and robust 15dtex fabric reduces any canopy sluggishness, thus making control behavior more intuitive and precise. This allows pilots to focus entirely on their line, even in difficult terrain.

Swing also optimized operation of the reworked riser with new trimmer design and improved feel. All in all, these changes result in simplified handling for pilots and allow safe and rapid adjustment to the glide angle even while wearing thick winter gloves.

With its new fabric and optimised riser, the Spitfire 2 Plus is intended once again for all passionate Speed Riding pilots who don’t want to make any compromises on their big day.

Product Highlights

  • unmatched large range between glide and very steep dive
  • very straightforward launch behaviour, even in deep powder snow
  • direct and uncompromising handling through short lines for maximum canopy feedback and crisp barrel rolls
  • reduced canopy inertia thanks to the new very lightweight 15dtex canopy fabric. The canopy remains stable above the pilot even in deep powder snow and follows without hesitation on tight turns
  • extended control travel, thus making it optimised for speed riding, with exponential increase in pressure against stalls and simple control even in rugged terrain
  • high canopy stability in steep dives and turbulence
  • optimised design with 3 line levels for less line resistance and straightforward ground handling
  • high energy conversion even at low speed
  • 3D shaping for perfect profile accuracy and sail tension
  • new optimised riser with better feel, safe and easy to use, even with thick gloves
  • completely new 2019 design in 3 colour schemes
  • sizes available: Comp / 8.5 / 9.5 / 11 / 13 / 15 / 16 / 18 (Twin)*

* Note: Strength tests mean that size 18(Twin) is available only in the materials and colours used for the previous model (gold and blue)

 

Target Group

The Spitfire 2 Plus is intended for pilots focussed on Speed Riding and uncompromising swooping fans, who are also wanting to launch without skis from time to time.

Sizes 13, 15 and 16 are best suited for novice pilots and training. With these sizes, the dampened and forgiving handling is a great help during the learning curve.

The Swing Spitfire 2 Plus Speed Riding Wing realizes its full potential when working with its close companion, the Brave 4 Harness, also designed by Speed Riders for Speed Riders by Swing. 

 

 

 

Swing Spitfire 2 Plus Speed Riding Wing Manual

Swing Spitfire 2 Plus Speed Riding Wing Lineplan

 

 

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Apus RS Mini-wing

Sunday
Aug252019

5) Icaro 2000 Nerv: Paragliding Helmet

Purchase Inquiry: Icaro 2000 Nerv Helmet

Striking Italian Design: The Nerv was designed by Ignazio Bernardi, with technical consultation with the greatest Italian helmet developer. The result is a paragliding helmet with a very futuristic look.

 Color and Textures: The Nerv is available in a variety of colors and textured finishes, to suit your style and complement your equipment. 

Standard Colors 

Orange with Black

Green with Black
 

Light Blue with Black

Carbon Optic 

 

Whtie Carbon 

Carbon Optic

Limited Edition 

Scratch Blue

Scratch Grey

 

 

Shell Strength: The 3 mm thick polycarbonate shell has the advantage of being very light and very strong. The polystyrene is reinforced with one more layer of polycarbonate to achieve the hard penetration test of the EN 966 Certification.

Air conditioning:  between the shell and the polystyrene there are two channels for air flow. You can open and close the flow of air with just one hand as you fly.

Visors: are made from polycarbonate with anti-scratch and anti-fog treatment.  4 types are available: transparent, grey, orange and mirror.

Removable Ear Covers: soft ear covers are easily removable.

Lightweight Design: Helmet weight 530g; Visor weight 93g.

Sizing 

There are 3 available sizes, combined with wheel regulator, for a perfect fit of the head circumference from 53 cm to 61 cm.  Sizes:  S 53-56 cm; M 57-59cm; L 60-61 cm. 

The size of a helmet is always described by the inner circumference of the internal padding. The size number therefore corresponds to the head circumference in centimetres. For a good fit, measure with a tailors tape around the back of the skull, above the ears and to the mid forehead as shown.  

 

3 internal paddings are adapted to the 3 sizes determined by the wheel regulator situated in the back of the helmet. They can be replaced by larger or smaller padding pieces, thus varying the helmet size.

 If the paragliding helmet is not a perfect fit, ICARO2000 will send new padding free of charge, independently from where you bought the helmet. 

The important advantage: you can easily remove the padding and replace it with a new one or just wash it.

EN 966 Certfication

The Nerv has been tested by the Italian laboratory, Newton, a company authorized by the Italian Ministry of Transport and recognized by the German TUV. 

All ICARO2000 helmets are designed specifically for free flight and ultra light pilots, in accordance with the European Norm standard, EN 966. 

Icaro2000 helmets were designed and built specifically to be as light as possible. However they optimize safety for hang glider, paraglider and ultra light pilots, as shown by the information above.

For more information about the E.N. 966 test please read the Icaro2000 page About safety

Here is the complete EN 966 test report

 

Purchase Inquiry: Icaro 2000 Nerv Helmet

Tuesday
Oct162018

4) Arcus RS Lite Paraglider, Light EN-B

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Arcus RS Lite Paraglider

The ARCUS RS LITE paraglider is the weight-optimised version of the popular ARCUS RS (click for details).

The name ARCUS generates high expectations. It is linked inseparably with SWING and stands for a revolutionary paraglider design, which has given many thousands of paraglider pilots a safe and easy introduction into our captivating sport over a period of nearly 20 years.

With a combination of 27 g and 32 g fabrics, and a weight-saving design for the interior, it is aimed at vol-biv pilots, safety-conscious hike & fly and XC pilots, as well as globe-trotters who are looking for a versatile paraglider which is lightweight and has a small pack volume.

The ARCUS RS LITE is up to 1,100 g lighter and, by using the RAST System, it loses none of its reactiveness and accuracy, but retains its stability and performance which would otherwise only be achieved by many cells.

Discover the unparalleled lightness of flying with the ARCUS RS Lite!

Combined with the Connect Reverse 3 convertible harness and the Escape rescue parachute, you have all the equipment needed for everyday use with an overall weight starting from less than 9 kg (ARCUS RS LITE XS in combination with Connect Reverse 3 M and Escape M), which does not place any particular demands on pilots.

These features are all an invitation to experimentation and further development. Be inspired by a test flight on the ARCUS RS Lite and experience the new RAST feeling!


Dyneema-Risers

The optional Dyneema risers make your Arcus RS Lite now even lighter!


 

Swing Arcus RS Lite Manual

Swing Arcus RS Lite Lineplan

 

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Arcus RS Lite Paraglider 

Tuesday
Oct162018

3) Swing Connect Reverse 2 Paragliding Harness

  

A zero-pressure airbag and a sleek aerodynamic design: these are the most striking differences between the CONNECT REVERSE 2 paragliding harness and its predecessor models. The airbag takes shape by way of a steel spring, completely independent of airflow, guaranteeing maximum damping right from launch and ensuring the greatest possible dimensional stability even after years of use.

A specially shaped seat board, combined with optimised leg strap geometry, makes it easier for the pilot to get into the harness and, along with many other clever details, perfects the tried and tested system of Swing's convertible paragliding harnesses. The Alpine Back carrying system from backpack specialist Deuter® is of course used in the CONNECT REVERSE 2 as well, and this sets it apart from every other convertible harness on the market. In backpack mode, the crossed aluminium strips effectively transfer weight to the hip-belt wings, so the perceived weight is noticeably reduced and you’ll really enjoy the hike up to launch.

 

Once airborne, the CONNECT REVERSE 2 will wow you with its perfect balance between comfort and agility. The harness system with partly non-adjustable geometry ensures that the key settings don’t alter further during flight. Carefully selected, robust and high-quality materials complete the CONNECT REVERSE 2 and make it the number one choice for anyone looking for a durable and comfortable paragliding harness for extended hike & fly tours, travelling or simply for flying.

 

Harness features

  • airflow-independent airbag without air inlet (shape by way of steel spring)
  • specially shaped seat board for easy transition into flying position from launch and vice versa
  • right/left markings on the loops for the main carabiners – which in particular makes reverse clip-in easier
  • T-lock leg loops
  • magnetic holder for speed bar
  • integrated, size-adjustable reserve container under the seat
  • comfortable ergonomic back padding with mesh insert for improved ventilation
  • adjustable buckles on the straps for the sitting position, which stay in position
  • adjustable back rest angle
  • adjustable seat angle
  • markings for recommended standard pilot position
  • storage compartment for hydration bladder + drinking tube outlet
  • shoulder pocket with SOS emergency card
  • strap to attach a radio
  • two side pockets for flight accessories
  • alarm whistle on the chest strap
  • ball-bearing pulleys for speed system cord guide
  • set up for installation of a speed system
  • customisable: Quick-Out carabiners and steerable reserve can be installed

Backpack features

  • Alpine Back carrying system with detachable hip belt (see picture)
  • ample volume, even for large paragliders and helmet
  • U-shaped zipper for easier packing
  • attachment loops for optional helmet holder
  • loops on backpack base e.g. to attach a sleeping bag
  • side loops for trekking poles
  • two side pockets
  • top pocket with zip closure
  • stable compression straps with metal buckles
  • reflective strips for better visibility
  • alarm whistle on the chest strap
  • storage compartment for hydration bladder + drinking tube outlet 

Optional accessories

  • Deuter® rain protection cover
  • Deuter® cover for protection when travelling
  • Deuter® hydration system (3 litre)

 

Materials and specifications

  • lightweight and robust combination of materials (Cordura® and Babyrib)
  • weight 4.5 kg (size L)
  • stable plastic seat board

Safety and certification

  • airflow-independent airbag (integrated steel spring)
  • excellent damping values right from launch
  • Velcro-free rescue channel system
  • V-lines with integrated backup of the reserve/harness connection