How Much Does It Cost to Start Paragliding? (Training & Gear)
The first question most people have about paragliding is cost. It breaks down into training, gear, and a little ongoing upkeep.
1. Training
Beginner courses run at certified schools and take you step by step from ground handling to your first solo. Prices vary a lot by school, region, and course structure, so before enrolling, confirm exactly what's included (insurance, gear rental, number of sessions).
2. Gear
Once you start flying regularly you'll need your own equipment. The basics:
| Item | Notes |
|---|---|
| Glider (wing) | Beginners typically start on the passively-safe EN-A class (EN rating guide) |
| Harness | What you sit in; beginner models prioritize safety and comfort |
| Reserve | Emergency parachute; needs periodic repacking |
| Helmet & instruments | Helmet is essential; vario/GPS are optional |
You don't have to buy everything at once. Start on school gear and build up gradually in consultation with your instructor — it's safer and cheaper. For how to choose, see Choosing Beginner Gear.
New vs. used
Used gear cuts the upfront cost a lot, but you must check hours flown, damage, and reserve repack history. Gear of unknown condition is a safety matter — have an instructor or expert inspect it.
3. Upkeep
- Periodic reserve repacks
- Glider checks and line trims
- Consumables and travel/site access
These cumulative costs and gear lifecycles are easy to miss if you rely on memory. FlyWise logs your flights automatically and tracks cumulative hours and inspection cycles per item. (What is FlyWise?)
Costs depend on your school and gear choices. Ask a nearby certified school for exact figures, and put safety first.
Frequently asked questions
- Is paragliding expensive to get into?
- Training and basic gear make up most of the upfront cost. Starting on school gear and considering used equipment lowers it, but choose anything safety-critical together with your instructor.
- Do I need to buy all the gear upfront?
- No. You learn on school gear at the beginner stage, then once your solos are stable you typically add a glider, harness, and reserve — in that order — with your instructor's guidance.