Paragliding vs. Parasailing -
Paragliders Do Not Parasail Off Mountains
You might think that paragliding and parasailing are
one and the same, but they’re actually two very different sports.
Parasailing is a passive activity, one in which anyone—even a
complete beginner—can suit up and be flown through the air,
suspended underneath a large parachute and propelled by a speedboat.
Paragliding, on the other hand, is an active skilled sport that
requires a bit of instruction and a lot of practice. Paragliding
involves an inflatable wing that the pilot is harnessed into and
then sets aloft like a kite. When the pilot is ready to launch, the
flight begins. Although the two sports sound similar and both
involve an inflatable form of a parachute, the nature and level of
skill required for each activity distinguish paragliding and
parasailing into different leagues altogether.
A Look at Parasailing
Parasailing is an activity that is great for those who love the
water but may not have the ability or desire to take on a more
extreme endeavor, such as jet skiing or kneeboarding. Parasailing
offers the rider a thrilling ascent over the ocean and a blissful
ride featuring scenic views, all with the safety and security of a
parachute. Most parasailing occurs over large bodies of water like
oceans and lakes, and the vast majority of parasailing companies
launch their passengers from a special dock on a boat. Some
parasailing companies feature takeoffs from a pier or dock, but this
practice is frequently linked with parasailing accidents.
Tips to Avoid a Parasailing
Accident
A Look at Paragliding
Paragliding is another activity altogether. It is possibly the
closest man can currently come to independent flight. Paragliding
wings are controlled solely by the rider, who thereby is technically
a pilot. The wings are set aloft much the same way a kite is, and
the pilot can choose how and when to take off at his or her
discretion.
You can paraglide nearly anywhere the weather conditions are right,
but many paragliders choose open fields, exciting cliffs and
mountain ranges for their intense scenery. This makes paragliding a
unique extreme sport. Most paragliding accidents occur due to pilot
error and misjudging weather conditions, that’s why it’s crucial to
undergo training from a certified instructor before attempting your
first paragliding flight. The more practice you have, especially
under the watchful eyes of an instructor, the better you’ll get at
judging weather conditions and learning when it’s safest to fly. If
you’re flying anywhere near water, you should wear a life vest; if
you’re planning to fly over a hundred feet in the air, you should
also add a reserve parachute, even if it is not required in your
country.
Whether you choose to go paragliding or parasailing depends greatly
on your level of involvement in the activity. Those who yearn to be
in the driver’s seat, with a sense of adventure and knowledge of his
or her limitations, should take lessons to become a paraglider.
Those who prefer to let others take charge—enjoy taking the back
seat—should stick to parasailing. Each activity can be immensely
rewarding and thrilling for the right person.
What To Look For In A
Parasail Boat
How to Find a
Parasail for Sale
Overview of Typical
Parasailing Prices
What is Powered
Parasailing?
The History
of Parasailing
Typical
Parasailing Equipment
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