Level Up Your Proximity Flight

With so many AU/NZ pilots getting into proximity flying, one of the most common questions we hear is:

“What size parakite should I fly for proximity terrain?”

Since the Swing Wave RS has launched in the region with multiple sizes — 10, 11.5, 13, 15 and 18m² — here’s a clean guide to help pilots choose the right size for their flying style and conditions.

How Size Affects Proximity Flying

The smaller the wing, the more:

• Speed

• Energy

• Roll authority

• Dive potential

• Pitch sensitivity

• Glide reduction

Larger sizes add:

• More versatility

• Easier foot launches

• More glide for returning to launch

• Better performance in lighter winds

• Smoother energy retention

Which Size Fits Your Style?

10 m² — High-Energy Proximity Lines

For very experienced pilots
Sharp handling, steep lines, aggressive carving, advanced sites

Best for:

• Steep alpine bowls

• Coastal compression

• High wind energy

11.5 m² — Advanced Proximity/Speed Crossover

Fast, precise, but with slightly more forgiveness than the 10
Perfect for skilled pilots wanting technical flying with more range

Great for:

• South Island steeps

• Deep NSW cliffs

• Higher-wind coastal flying

13 m² — The Most “Balanced” Proximity Size

The 13 gives the best all-round performance
Stable, predictable, still fast — suitable for strong intermediate to advanced pilots

Ideal for:

• General proximity

• Ridge lines

• Dynamic runs

• Mixed terrain

15 m² — Versatile Alpine/Proximity Hybrid

More glide, more usability, more accessible to pilots stepping into proximity
Still dynamic but far less demanding

Perfect for:

• Learning small-wing behaviour

• Hike-and-fly

• NZ alpine missions

• Lower-wind compression flying

18 m² — The Big-Mountain Touring Option

Not a typical proximity size — but excellent for alpine touring
Ideal when you want glide + stability + more passive safety

Good for:

• Big foot-launch missions

• Light-wind alpine flying

• Heavier pilots wanting stability

• General ski or mountain descent

Other Factors to Consider

Pilot Weight

Your all-up weight (AUW) massively influences how each size feels.

Local Conditions

AU/NZ terrain varies heavily:

• Coronet Peak = higher winds, smaller wings OK

• Rainbow Beach = compression = small wings shine

• Coastal NSW = variable winds = 13–15m² ideal

• VIC alpine = longer glide lines = 15–18m² better

Experience Level

The smaller the wing, the more expert-level timing you need.

Need Help Choosing?

Paragliding Shop can help match your:

• Weight

• Flying style

• Local sites

• Experience level

• Conditions

…to the correct Wave RS size.

We’ve flown these wings ourselves and can give personal, practical advice tailored to AU/NZ terrain.