How to buy a reserve parachute

The biggest study into reserve parachutes was made in 2020 by Dr Matt Wilkes

As a paraglider pilot, it’s the one piece of kit you never want to use in anger. Bastienne Wentzel talks to Stefan Kurrle from Independence about reserves.

Reserves have developed fast in recent years, resulting in many different types to choose from. The three main types are round reserves, squares (which aren’t always square – they can be multi-sided, like a pentagon or octagon), and Rogallo-type steerable reserves.

According to Stefan Kurrle of manufacturer Independence Paragliding, square parachutes are the way to go. “Most squares excel in opening time and pendulum stability,” he explained. “Packing is different than for rounds, but not...