Air Design Hero XPed (EN-D)

Size XXS XS S M Area | Flat (m²) 18,98 20,30 21,86 23,32 Area | Projected (m²) 16,25 17,38 18,72 19,96 Span | Flat (m) 11,37 11,76 12,20 12,60 Span | Projected (m) 9,23 9,55 9,91 10,24 Aspect ratio | Flat 6,81 6,81 6,81 6,81 Aspect ratio | Projected 5,25 5,25 5,25 5,25 Cells 57 57 57 57 Chord-length (m) 2,11 2,18 2,26 2,34 Weight (kg) 2,81 2,95 3,15 3,28 Take-off weight (kg) 64-80 74-88 84-98 94-108 Optimal weight range (kg) 69-77 78-85 86-95 96-104 EN category D D D D Advanced 60% Expert 100% Cross Country 100% Hike & Fly 100% Expedition 100% Cross Country Competition 100% Hike & Fly Competition 100% The AirDesign Hero XPed is the second product in the Expedition (XPed) series, a light EN-D paraglider specifically designed for extreme hike-and-fly events like the X-Alps, and for ambitious pilots who push the limits of exploration. It aims to be “your best mate” by offering an exceptional balance of enjoyment, homogenous tension, and robustness in challenging conditions, while being the lightest Hero glider ever created.Key Features:Light EN-D Glider: Categorized as a high-performance wing suitable for experienced pilots.Designed for Extreme Events: Specifically developed to participate in “the world’s toughest adventure race” (X-Alps), indicating its focus on elite performance in demanding environments.Distinct DNA & Homogenous Tension: Offers great balance and enjoyment with homogenous tension across the span, providing a connected feel to the air while maintaining a degree of flexibility at the wingtips for excellent floatation in weak conditions.Lightest Hero Ever Created: Achieves extreme lightness while remaining dependable in any situation.Improved All-Terrain Capability: Enhanced tension in the wing span makes it more capable in tough conditions.Evolved Turning Behavior: Facilitates thermalling using the full range of brakes and offers greater soaring abilities.Durable Light Construction (XPed Philosophy):Features a new style of internal wire routing and an innovative inner construction to enhance durability and strength.Designed for real-world flying, including dynamic maneuvers and random packing, not just for ultralight optimization.Ensures better load distribution and increased longevity, providing built-in safety margins.Premium Materials:Double-coated Dominico DOKDO-10DSF: Used for top and bottom surfaces, a proven material in AirDesign’s Superlight gliders.Optimized Nitinol rods: Improve stability at the trailing edge, enhance launching characteristics, act as a safety feature, reduce weight, and enable compact folding.Clever Main Ribs Support Design: Ensures the longevity of performance, emphasizing that the gliders are “built to last, performance included.”12mm Aramid Risers (Standard): Heavier than Dyneema but chosen for their superior handling in windy and tricky takeoff conditions, with no tendency to twist.  For more details, visit the Manufacturer’s Page