Speedflying With a Reserve: But Why?

As a paragliding & speed flying instructor, I’ve dedicated my career to promoting safety and skill development in the skies. One thing I emphasize is the importance of wearing a reserve parachute, even while speed flying. While it’s true that reserves may not always have sufficient height to deploy and save a life, there are numerous scenarios where they can mean the difference between walking away from an incident or not. Let’s talk about why wearing a reserve is a choice that could save your life—and why prevention, too, plays a critical role in your flying journey.

The Unpredictability of Speed Flying

Speed flying is a blend of adrenaline, speed, and precision. However with fast descents, proximity to terrain, and rapid decision-making—also makes it more demanding and, at times, more dangerous. Pilots often find themselves in situations where margins for error are razor-thin.

This was shown just days ago when we witnessed a situation where a reserve saved a pilot from severe consequences. While their altitude was marginal, it was just enough to deploy the reserve and avoid a catastrophic impact. Moments like these are a sobering reminder of how quickly things can go wrong  and how vital it is to be prepared for the unexpected.

When a Reserve Makes the Difference

Speed flying often involves lower altitudes compared to traditional paragliding, which can lead some pilots to believe reserves are unnecessary. The argument goes: if you don’t have enough altitude, why bother? But this mindset overlooks key points:

1. Unexpected Blowback Mountain Ridge Soaring: If you were blown over the back of a ridge or mountain a reserve deployment could save you

2. Turbulence and Wing Collapse: Even a brief deployment window can prevent severe injuries in the event of a major wing collapse close to the ground.

3. Trees: A reserve can help you if you had an imminent tree landing and the more material to snag on trees, the better.  

4. Collision with Another Pilot: A reserve could possibly save both of your lives.

5. Practicing Barrel Rolls/Extreme Manuevers: It's best to practice first with lots of extra altitude, a reserve could be useful if you perform these manuevers wrong.

The Role of Prevention

Wearing a reserve is not a substitute for good decision-making. Prevention is always the best tool in a pilot’s safety arsenal. Here are some practical ways to reduce risks while speed flying:

• Pre Flight Gear Checks: Attitude, Buckles, Conditons.  Risers, Lines, Wing

• Check Wing Visually During Launch: If anything looks off or feels off, abort the launch immediately.

• Fly Conservatively: Save extreme maneuvers for days when conditions are optimal and you have more altitude to work with.

• Evaluate Conditions: Always check wind, weather, and terrain before launching. Avoid flying in unpredictable or turbulent conditions.

• Know Your Gear: Regularly inspect and maintain your equipment. Ensure your reserve is compatible with your harness and is correctly packed.

• Train for Emergencies: Practice reserve deployment in simulations, attend a SIV course, and take refresher courses so it becomes second nature.

Inspiring Safety

As pilots, we’re part of a community that shares a passion for flight. Encouraging each other to prioritize safety is one of the greatest gifts we can offer. Wearing a reserve—even when you think you won’t need it—is a small decision that reflects a big commitment to personal and collective well-being. I've seen pilots mock others for wearing an airbag or carrying a reserve while speed flying, but it's time to shift that mindset. Prioritizing safety isn't just smart—it’s the mark of a skilled and responsible pilot. Confidence comes from preparation, not unnecessary risk. Let’s make safety the new standard.

Happy flying!