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Wingtip Vortices are spirals of air created at the wingtips of a paraglider due to pressure differences. They can affect the efficiency of the wing. Example: To reduce the drag caused by wingtip vortices, the pilot tried to fly with a smooth and steady style.

A Speed Bar is a foot control used by paragliders to increase the speed of the glider by changing the wing's angle of attack. Example: Approaching the landing zone, the pilot used the speed bar to accelerate and penetrate into the headwind.

Cross-Country Flying in paragliding refers to flying a distance from the takeoff point, relying on thermals and air currents to stay aloft and cover distance. Example: The pilot set a personal record for cross-country flying, covering 50 kilometers in a single flight.

Wind Gradient refers to the change in wind speed with altitude. Near the ground, wind speed is reduced due to friction. Example: The paraglider noticed a strong wind gradient when descending, as ground wind speed was significantly lower than at altitude.

EN Ratings are a European standard for classifying the safety and flying characteristics of paraglider wings. Ratings range from EN A (beginner) to EN D (competition). Example: As a new pilot, he chose a wing with an EN A rating for greater safety and easier handling.

Ridge Lift is an upward movement of air caused by wind blowing against a hill or mountain. Paragliders can soar along the ridge to stay airborne. Example: Exploiting the ridge lift, the pilot maintained altitude for hours along the mountain range.

The Leading Edge is the foremost edge of the paraglider wing which faces into the airflow during flight. It is critical to the aerodynamics of the wing. Example: After launching, the pilot checked that the leading edge was properly inflated and holding its shape.

The Harness is the seat that a paraglider pilot uses to attach to the wing, providing comfort and control during flight. Example: The pilot adjusted his harness for the best fit and comfort before launching off the ridge.

A Reserve Parachute is an additional parachute used by paragliders in case of emergencies or wing failure. Example: During an unexpected wing malfunction, the pilot deployed the reserve parachute to make a safe landing.

Ground Handling is the practice of controlling the paraglider while on the ground, essential for safe takeoff and landings. Example: The beginner spent the morning practicing ground handling to improve her launch technique.

A Stall occurs when the airflow over the paraglider wing is disrupted, and lift is lost, possibly leading to a descent. Example: The pilot pulled the brakes too hard and the glider began to stall, so he released them slightly to regain airspeed and lift.

Brake Lines are the controls used by paragliders to manage speed and direction. They alter the shape of the wing's trailing edge. Example: By pulling the left brake line, the pilot initiated a smooth turn to the left, controlling his descent.

Takeoff in paragliding is the process of transitioning from standing on the ground to flying in the air by inflating the wing and running into the wind. Example: With a steady breeze, she had a smooth takeoff and quickly gained altitude over the hill.

An Alti-Vario is a device that provides altitude and vertical speed information to paragliders. It assists in finding and staying in lift sources. Example: His alti-vario beeped steadily, indicating that he was in a strong thermal and gaining altitude quickly.

Acro Paragliding is the sport of performing aerobatic maneuvers with a paraglider such as spins, rolls, and stalls. Example: The audience at the beach was amazed by the acro paragliding show, complete with dramatic twists and spirals.

Glider Trim refers to the default setting of a paraglider's angle of flight which determines its speed without pilot input. Example: The pilot checked the glider trim before takeoff, ensuring it was set for optimal stability and lift.

The Aspect Ratio of a paraglider wing is its wingspan divided by its mean chord. In general, a higher aspect ratio indicates better performance in terms of glide, but can be more demanding to pilot. Example: For a wing with a 10-meter span and 2-meter average chord, the Aspect Ratio is 5.

The Landing Zone is a designated area for paragliders to safely land after their flight. It should be clear of obstructions. Example: The pilot steered toward the marked landing zone, making sure to approach into the wind for a gentle touchdown.

A Collapse in paragliding is a reduction in wing area caused by the temporary folding of the wing. This can occur due to turbulent air or pilot error. Example: Experiencing a minor collapse, the pilot quickly regained control by pumping the brakes to re-inflate the wing.