The Crossover Glider
The "parawing" is a crossover category blending kite technology with wingfoiling, exemplified by the 2025 Flow D-Wing. Unlike a rigid-frame wing, these single-skin gliders use a reflex airfoil design supported by a bridle system.
The key advantage is the ability to depower fully without luffing (flapping violently), which extends downwind sessions by 40% in strong 15 to 25-knot winds.
Upwind Capability
Early single-skin wings struggled to fly upwind. However, 2025 models have improved the bridle geometry to allow upwind angles of up to 45 degrees for a 70 kg rider.
This makes them viable for "tow-up" style riding where the rider uses the wing to get on foil and then depowers it completely to surf the swell. One reviewer documented achieving just under 5 knots upwind VMG (Velocity Made Good) on a 4.0m D-Wing, demonstrating solid progress into the wind.
Reflex Airfoil Stability
The reflex airfoil design ensures stability even when fully depowered, effectively preventing collapses that plagued earlier parawing models. This stability allows riders to handle gusts by flying the wing on the front lines, dramatically reducing power while maintaining control.
The high aspect ratio contributes to efficient upwind drive. For optimal upwind performance and reduced arm fatigue, using a harness with the D-Wing is highly recommended, allowing riders to relax during the upwind phase rather than fighting arm pump.
Launch and Recovery
Models like the North Ranger feature shortened bridles that allow for 15% quicker launches in light 10-knot trade winds. While they pack down smaller than inflatable wings, the bridle lines add complexity and the total pack weight can be 500g heavier due to the required bar and lines.
| Metric | Rigid Wing | Parawing Hybrid |
|---|---|---|
| Depower Stability | Luffs/Flaps | Silent/Stable |
| Upwind Angle | ~50-60° | ~45° |
| Packability | Bulky (Struts) | Compact (No Struts) |
Sources & Further Reading
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