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 

Tuesday
Oct162018

1) Swing Apus RS, Mini-wing

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

 

The Apus RS is an all-terrain Mini-wing and universal tool for guaranteed fun for practically any occasion. 

Depending on the version (Apus RS or Apus RS Hike), it has a number of uses ranging from soaring in strong winds to dynamic flying at your local site, right through to Hike & Fly tours. What’s more, it will fit perfectly in your luggage thanks to its packed size and light weight. This means the APUS RS is intended for all paraglider pilots and keen Mini-wing pilots, for whom the desire for adventure and a passion for flying have top priority.

 

 

Flight behaviour

Depending on the wing loading, its flight behaviour ranges from standard to dynamically direct (refer to the Versatility Table). At the same time, the balanced handling and pleasant roll damping impart a pleasant and familiar feeling during flight with exceptional performance.

 

 

Special features

The innovative RAST concept has also proven itself in this category of glider. The delayed filling behaviour ensures that the inflation phase is easy to control and it minimises any tendency to launch the pilot unintentionally, particularly in very steep terrain or in strong winds. Once in the air, RAST ensures less canopy movement in turbulent air as well as an above-average resistance to collapse, which has a positive effect on performance. 

 

APUS RS Standard 

The Apus RS Standard version uses a combination of 41 and 34g paraglider fabric and standard risers. Custom colours can be ordered only for the standard version.

 

 

 

 

 

Apus RS Swift Risers go even further!

Optional Swift Trimmer Risers are available, and increase the already high trim speed of the Apus RS still further by about 6 km/hr.

 

 

This is particularly useful on launch when coastal soaring so you can get away from the compression at the soaring ridge in strong wind. 

The RAST system keeps the Apus RS very stable and easy to control even with open trimmers. The trimmers can be quickly and safely grasped and closed if necessary using the stitched T-handle. 

The uncertified trimmer riser can be purchased only as an optional accessory for a cost of Euro 189 gross (Euro 119 in combination with Apus RS order) including quick links and must be ordered separately. Since the Apus RS has no certification with trimmer risers, it can thus be converted back to the version with certification, if re-sold.

 

Apus RS Hike

The design of the Hike version has been weight-optimised even further. The APUS RS Hike uses a 27g fabric throughout the wing. 

 

 

The 27g fabric has limited availability, so the APUS RS Hike is available only in the red/blue colour combination.

 

 

Furthermore, extremely lightweight Dyneema risers with soft links are used rather than conventional risers.

 

 

Apus RS Hike 20 and 23

 

Hike & fly with a touch of the miniwing’s style!

In response to strong demand, Swing has added to the Apus RS Hike product range sizes 20 and 23. These make the link from the mini-wing to the thermalling wing, with projected area of 20 / 23m², a weight of only 3.4 / 3.6kg and a weight range of 95 / 110kg (EN-B).

 

 

 

As with the smaller sizes, you will be impressed by the simplicity of the Apus RS Hike 20 and 23 from launch to landing. Risk-conscious mountaineers will appreciate this after a strenuous ascent just as much as hike & fly novices. At the same time, the new sizes are much more than simply a descent method: they cover every eventuality to give you the perfect adventure, from extended thermal flights to dynamic soaring and right through to XC vol bivvy flying!

Here too the innovative RAST concept provides greater safety and performance, particularly in turbulent conditions off the beaten track.

 

Details 

  • Ram Air Section Technology (RAST)
  • Battens on Leading Edge
  • Reefing Brake Detail
  • Apus RS Standard with 41 and 34g fabric and standard risers
  • Apus RS Hike with 27g fabric and Dyneema risers

Technical Specifications






Tuesday
Feb222022

2) Swing Mirage 2 RS - Speedflying

 Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Mirage 2 RS Speedwing

 

 

Extended range and better performance, without sacrificing the proven all-round characteristics and nature of the Mirage series – that was precisely Swing's goal in developing the Mirage 2 RS!

The new, lightweight risers, equipped with Split-A Riser and a C-Bridge, give you maximum control and precise steering over the entire trim range.

 

 

Through meticulous R&D over a period of two years, Swing's development team of passionate speedflying and speedriding pilots, has succeeded in extending the scope of the glide from “extremely steep” to the best glide performance, as well as the usable speed range, while retaining the character and safe feeling of its predecessor.

 

 

 

 

This is mainly made possible by a new, very stable performance profile, with Nitinol-reinforced leading edge in combination with Swing's patented RAST system, which has been optimally adapted to the Mirage 2 RS.

  • Extended range and glide performance for extremely steep lines and long swoops
  • High stability over the entire angle of attack range, thanks to the new performance profile with RAST
  • Maximum control and precise handling thanks to a new riser concept

 

 

Important information about the glider sizes:

In order to make it easier for you to compare the wing area of Speedwings across manufacturers, Swing has calculated and specified the area laid out, with one of the most common development programs. This sometimes results in discrepancies between the size information in the glider name and the wing area specification in the technical data. Swing has decided not to adjust the size information to the new area calculation, so that you know which size of Mirage 2 RS is suitable for you, based on your experience with one of the previous models.

 

 

 

Ram Air Section Technology (RAST)


 

On paragliders with RAST® the canopy is divided into different internal pressurised sections by one or more fabric panels, some with valves running crossways to the direction of flight. This makes it possible to influence the air flows within the canopy.

With RAST, the air equalisation flows within the paraglider canopy can be regulated through defined openings. This applies both when filling (during take-off), and when emptying. In the case of pressure loss, e.g. caused by canopy collapse in turbulent air, the relative internal pressure of the CORE section increases, while the BUFFER section absorbs the introduced energy by deformation. Furthermore, RAST can be used as an additional support to the leading and trailing edge, which has a positive effect on flight comfort. As RAST connects the ribs over the entire profile height, the construction has a stiffening effect and reinforcements and/or stiffening elements can be saved or even completely replaced by this special construction method.

In the Mirage 2 RS, RAST© has been optimised to enhance the following characteristics:

  • More canopy stability and performance at high speeds and in turbulent air
  • Maximum control over the brake and the C-Bridge

Tip: You can close the RAST valves by abruptly applying the brakes, thus provoking a very direct and agile reaction from the Mirage 2 RS. If you pull moderately on the brakes, the RAST valves remain open so that you can control your glider precisely and intuitively.

 

 New Wing Profile


 

For the Mirage 2 RS, Swing has further modified the well-proven profile of its predecessor. Thanks to a new, aerodynamically optimised leading edge, you now have access to significantly more performance over the entire angle of attack range. The Mirage 2 RS is faster, has better glide performance and flies steeper than ever before with open trimmers.

The new profile filters feedback in turbulence to the bare minimum, giving you highly precise and intuitive handling in any trim position, without being overwhelming.

The new profile and trim have been adapted to significantly improve the Mirage 2 RS swooping ability. It quickly builds up a lot of speed in the dive and converts this into powerful swoops with a medium recovery arc.

Together with the shortened line lengths and the new Valentin Delluc inspired brake spider trim, you can easily control crisp barrel rolls snapping back into place at the end of the manoeuvre.

The long progressive brake travel and low speed stall point make launching easy and give you maximum control during manoeuvres or proximity flights.

 

 

12 mm Webbing Width 

For an improved feel, Swing has reduced the webbing width to 12mm and reinforced it with a Kevlar core. In favour of a reliably working trimmer with enough “bite”, Swing has kept the width of the trimmer strap.

 

 

Split-A Riser

What has long been standard on paragliders has also proved its worth on the Mirage 2 RS during testing. For an optimal angle of attack of the outer wing in any trim position, the A risers on the Mirage 2 RS are now split. This allows for better handling when using the brakes and a has a positive effect on performance when the trimmers are open.

 

 

C-Bridge

One of the top priorities in the development of the Mirage 2 RS was to improve the steering behaviour via the rear risers. To enable you to steer as efficiently and fatigue-free as possible via the risers, Swing has adopted the C-Bridge from paraglider development. This feature allows you to use almost the entire glide angle range with open trimmers.

 

 

Trimmer

After an extensive test phase with numerous pilot discussions, Swing decided to equip the trimmer of the Mirage 2 RS with a loop to close it. To ensure that you can grip the loop quickly in any situation, even with thick gloves, it is permanently held in shape by Nitinol. An elastic chord, which is connected to the carrying strap, prevents the trimmer band from flapping.

 

 

Details

To prevent the lines from getting caught in the brake handles during transport in the Swing Speedbag, you can fix the handles in the suspension loops of the riser. 

If you would like to connect your brake handles to the riser with an elastic chord for more control in flight, you will find a loop for this purpose at the hang-in points of the risers.

Swing has responded to pilot feedback and now use plastic inserts for the line locks, instead of O-rings.

Snow and dirt that may collect inside of the canopy are automatically transported to the stabilo via a channel. The large dirt outlets make it easy to remove anything you’d rather not have in your Mirage 2 RS. You can choose to close the dirt outlets with a Velcro fastener, or keep them open during flight with a flap.

 

 

 

Nitinol is a high strength, temperature and corrosion resistant, shape-memory alloy. The name Nitinol is an acronym for Nickel Titanium Naval Ordnance Laboratory. Swing has long been one of the first paraglider manufacturers to use this material, mainly known for its use in medical technology, as a nose reinforcement in paraglider construction.

For optimum dimensional stability of the Mirage 2 RS profile, Swing has sewn the Nitinol battens into narrow Mylar strips. This makes the Mirage 2 RS extremely efficient in flight without being too aggressive when riding in deep snow. The Nitinol memory material is kink-resistant and keeps its shape even at very low temperatures or in wet conditions.

 

 

Tech Specs


 

 

 Colours


 

 

 

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Mirage 2 RS Speedwing

 

Sunday
Feb262023

3) Swing Spitfire 3 > Speedriding

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Spitfire 3 Speedriding Wing

 

 Whether on steep “big mountain” powder slopes, or low proximity through the terrain – redefine speedriding for yourself with the Spitfire 3. You get a high-end setup for ultimate control, playful dynamics and versatility on any terrain.

 

 

The redesigned canopy of the Spitfire 3, with its Nitinol-reinforced leading edge and optimised power transmission via V-Ribs, results in unmatched steering precision – ideal for extreme terrain and difficult conditions. The Spitfire 3 remains resistant to disturbances and therefore stays on the ground even when riding on very steep and difficult lines and reacts progressively to input with lift when required, even in slow deep powder. The new grippy riser with C-bridge and split A-riser offer the ultimate control in flight, riding and kiting, even with thick winter gloves. 

With many more exclusive features, the Spitfire 3 generates new creativity for your next big speedriding adventure and your most sought after ‘dream–lines’! 

 

 

Design Brief

 

Who should fly the Spitfire 3? 

To choose the ideal size you should consider your skill level, wing loading and terrain: 

  • Spitfire 3 – 7 m– for professionals and experts (only on recommendation of a Swing Speedflying Team member) 
  • Spitfire 3 –  8.5/ 9.5 m2 – for experienced pilots 
  • Spitfire 3 – 11 m2 – for intermediate pilots 
  • Spitfire 3 – 13/15 m2  – for training and beginners

Sizes 13 and 15m2 are best suited for beginners and for training.  The trimmer travel is ideally suited to speedriding beginners! The damped handling of these sizes massively supports the learning curve and forgives mistakes. 

 

 

 

New Canopy Construction for Improved Riding Performance

Swing has refined the canopy of the predecessor, which was optimised for speedriding, and extended it by two cells. To improve riding performance, the middle cells are suspended with diagonal ribs. This makes the canopy follow the pilot even more intuitively – even in tight turns and when riding slowly.



The use of diagonal ribs also reduces line drag, making the Spitfire 3 more precise at high speeds and improving its swooping performance. 

Swing has deliberately not used RAST on the Spitfire 3 because, without the subdivision into RAST pressure sections, the canopy remains softer and more passive over the pilot in riding mode. 


New Nitinol Leading Edge - for Maximum Profile Stability with minimum Weight  

Nitinol is a wire that originates from medical technology. It consists of a high-strength, temperature and corrosion resistant shape memory alloy. The name Nitinol is an acronym for “Nickel Titanium Naval Ordnance Laboratory”. Its unique feature: Nitinol wires always retain the given shape. 

 


The Mirage 2 RS and Spitfire 3 are the first and so far only Speedwings on the market to use the costly high-tech material to reinforce the profile nose. The advantages: An optimal balance of stiffness and flexibility, as well as a permanently shape-retaining and robust leading edge, even in wet, snowy and icy conditions! 

To protect the topsail material from premature wear, the thin Nitinol wires are inserted into nylon tubes.

 

New High-end Riser - for Easier Handling and Ultimate Control

20mm Webbing on Risers

For improved haptics, especially in winter conditions and while wearing thick gloves, Swing has kept the webbing width of the Spitfire 3 riser at 20mm. 

 



Split-A Riser

What has long been a standard feature on paragliders, has also proven itself on the Spitfire 3 during testing. For an optimal angle of attack of the outer wings in every trim position, the A-risers on the Spitfire 3 are split. The result is better handling via the brakes and a plus in performance with the open trimmers. 

 

C-Bridge

As previously for the Mirage 2 RS, one of the top priorities in the development of the Spitfire 3 was to improve the control behaviour via the rear risers. The Spitfire 3 can be controlled very efficiently in flight via the C-bridge and with open trimmers, you can use almost the entire glide ratio. With the C-bridge pulled more towards the centre, glide performance improves. With the C-bridge pulled further back, the Spitfire 3 will roll with agility and control, even with the trimmers completely open. 

 

Trimmers

After an extensive test phase and numerous pilot discussions, we decided to equip the trimmer of the Spitfire 3 with a loop to close it. To ensure that you can grip the loop quickly in any situation, even with thick gloves, it is permanently held in shape by Nitinol. An elastic band, which is connected to the riser, prevents the trimmer band from flapping. 

 

 

To prevent line tangles during transport in the Swing Speedbag, you can fix the brake handles to the additional snap fasteners on the hook-in loops on the riser. 

 


If you want to connect your brake handles to the riser with a rubber band for more control in flight, while kiting or riding, you will find a loop to attach it to the hook-in loop. 

Swing has listened to your feedback and now use plastic inserts for the line buckles instead of O-rings. 

Snow and dirt are often collected in the trailing edge, but automatically transported to the stabilo via a channel in the Spitfire 3. The large outlet makes it easy to remove anything you’d rather not have in your Spitfire 3. The dirt outlet openings can either be permanently closed with a Velcro fastener or kept open during flight with a flap.

 


 

Made in EU

Anything made in EU countries ensures that local labour and environmental standards are respected. Transport routes are kept short, local businesses are supported.  “Made in Europe” minimises CO2 emissions and guarantees products of high quality complete with social responsibility.  

The Spitfire 3 and Mirage 2 RS are manufactured in our production facility in Croatia with the “Made in Europe” label.  Swing Speedwings are not only manufactured to the highest European quality standards, they also make a very important contribution to regional economic value generation and guarantee our highly qualified sewers and employees a secure job, with the added benefit of a very high level of social security for their families. In addition to production, many small service providers and business partners also benefit from the success of Swing products, and in turn this increases their future opportunities. 

 

Tech Specs and Important information about the glider sizes: 

In order to make it easier for you to compare the surface areas of speedwings from different manufacturers, Swing has calculated and indicated the surface area using one of the most common development programs. This sometimes results in discrepancies between the size name information in the glider name and the surface area information in the technical data. 

Swing has decided to not adjust the size name information to the new area calculation so that you know which size of Spitfire 3 is suitable for you, based on your experience with one of the previous models. 

 

Colours:

 

 

 

Swing Spitfire 3 Manual

 

Purchase Inquiry Price Quote (Click Here): Swing Spitfire 3 Speedriding Wing