Have you ever dreamed of soaring through the skies, feeling the rush of wind and the freedom of flight? Whether you're drawn to the thrill of paragliding or the excitement of hang gliding, both sports offer unforgettable ways to experience the world from above.

At Super Fly, we've been helping adventure seekers take flight for over two decades, and we're here to guide you through the key differences between these two exhilarating sports. Curious about which one is the best fit for your next adventure? Let's explore what sets them apart and help you make the right choice!

Paragliding vs. Hang Gliding: What You Use to Fly

The gear you use to fly is one of the most noticeable differences.

Paragliding uses a lightweight, soft fabric wing that looks like a parachute. The pilot sits in a harness, a seat attached to the wing by strong lines. The entire setup is light and can be packed into a backpack, making it easy to carry.

Hang gliding, however, uses a rigid triangular wing made from metal or carbon frames with fabric stretched over it. The pilot lies down in a harness underneath the wing and steers by moving their body. Hang gliders are heavier and take more time to put together before you can fly.

Paragliding vs. Hang Gliding: Taking Off and Landing

How you take off and land is also different between these two sports.

Paragliding starts by running down a slope or getting pulled by a tow. Since the wing is light, you don't need much speed to get airborne. Landing is easier, too—paragliders come down more slowly and can land on their feet.

Because the wing is heavier, hang gliding requires a bigger hill or stronger winds to take off. You also need to run faster during takeoff. When landing, hang gliders fly faster and require more skill to stop, often needing more space to land safely.

Steering and Controlling the Glider

Once you're in the air, the way you steer is different.

Paragliders use hand controls to turn and adjust the wing's angle. This makes it easy to steer, and you can fly at slower speeds, enjoying the view as you glide through the air.

Hang gliders are controlled by shifting your body. You move your weight to steer, allowing you to fly faster and make sharper turns. Hang gliding offers a more thrilling experience, but it takes more skill to control the glider.

Speed and How High You Can Go

The speed and altitude you can reach depend on the glider you use. Paragliders typically fly between 12-25 mph and can reach heights up to 18,000 feet. Because of the slower speed, paragliding gives you a peaceful, scenic flight, perfect for soaking in the surroundings.

Hang gliders are faster, typically flying between 30-56 mph, and can go higher than paragliders. They are better for those who want a more high-speed, adrenaline-filled experience.

Safety: Which One Is Safer?

Both sports are safe when done correctly with the proper training and equipment. However, each has different safety factors.

Paragliding is often considered safer for beginners because it's slower and easier to control, with smoother takeoffs and landings. But since paragliders are lighter, they can be affected more by changing wind and weather.

Hang gliding is faster and requires more experience to handle safely, especially during takeoff and landing. Pilots must be confident flying at higher speeds, making hang gliding more challenging for newcomers.

Learning to Fly: Which One Is Easier?

Paragliding is usually easier to learn for beginners. The equipment is lighter and more straightforward to control. Most people can take their first solo flight after just a few days of training.

Hang gliding takes longer to learn. The heavier equipment and faster speeds mean more practice is needed to get comfortable flying on your own.

Which One Should You Try?

Both paragliding and hang gliding offer incredible flying experiences, but the choice depends on the type of adventure you're seeking. If you prefer a relaxed, scenic flight that's easier to learn, paragliding might be perfect for you. However, hang gliding could be the better fit if you crave speed, precision in the air, and understand the commitment required for training. Of course, there's nothing wrong with mastering both!

At Super Fly, we've been helping people experience the thrill of paragliding for over two decades. Whether you're a beginner starting your paragliding journey or an experienced pilot seeking the best equipment, our team is here to guide you. We offer top-quality gear from renowned brands like Advance Paragliders, GIN Gliders, and NOVA Wings, along with expert lessons at the famous Point of the Mountain in Utah.

Ready to experience the thrill of paragliding? Contact us today, and let us help you soar to new heights!