The Sprint X-Alps is a lightweight version of Gin‘s EN B Sprint. As its name suggests, it features technology used in the Red Bull X-Alps race to deliver a paraglider with Gin’s ultimate compromise of lightness and durability, making it suitable for trekking and normal cross country flying.
It is made from fabrics of different weights – very light Skytex 27 on the under-surface, heavier Skytex 36 on top with water-repellant Skytex 36 on the leading edge. Lightweight Dyneema lines have been chosen, but they are sheathed to reduce tangling and line length changes after many hours’ flight. Thinner 12 mm risers are narrow but not extreme, and lightweight flexible battens support the leading edge.
Gin say the flight characteristics of the Sprint X-Alps include easy launching even in strong winds, a high degree of passive safety and a smooth glide with good pitch stability. It also has a kick-down speed system.
The compact Sprint X-Alps is delivered with the X-Alps 90 litre rucksack (900g), which has room for a lightweight harness and other kit but “doesn’t completely fill the boot of your car”. It is available in one colour and five sizes, the XXS weighing 4.6 kg, the L is 5.9.
