Acrobatic paragliding (often called "paramotoring" or "paramotow" when powered) combines the thrill of flight with the artistry of aerial tricks. When the runway stretches across a shimmering lake, the visual payoff is unmatched---but the environment also introduces unique challenges. Below are proven techniques that help pilots perform safe, clean, and spectacular maneuvers over open‑water lakes.
Pre‑Flight Planning
1.1 Weather & Wind Assessment
- Wind direction: Aim for a steady on‑shore breeze (blowing from the lake toward land). This gives you a natural "run‑in" and reduces the risk of being blown out over open water.
- Wind speed: Ideal for acrobatics is 8--15 km/h (5--9 kt). Stronger winds increase turbulence over the water surface and can make spin‑recovery harder.
- Thermal activity: Lakes tend to be cooler than surrounding land in the early morning, limiting thermal lift. Check for any low‑level inversions that could produce a "lake breeze" shear.
1.2 Site Selection & Take‑off Spot
- Choose a clear, unobstructed shoreline with at least 300 m of runway.
- Verify the water depth and any submerged hazards (docks, buoys).
- Mark a "safety circle" (≈ 100 m radius) on the shore for rescue personnel and spectators.
1.3 Equipment Checklist
| Item | Why It Matters Over Water |
|---|---|
| High‑visibility wing (bright colors, reflective trim) | Improves spotting from the ground and rescue crews. |
| Water‑proof harness & quick‑release | Prevents soak‑through and enables rapid egress if you land on water. |
| Float‑assist device or PFD (personal flotation device) | Mandatory in many jurisdictions; adds buoyancy in case of water landing. |
| Reserve parachute (dual‑deployment recommended) | Essential for a safe abort if a maneuver goes wrong. |
| Lightweight, waterproof electronics (GPS, altimeter) | Keeps navigation functional and reduces corrosion. |
Take‑off Technique
- Run‑in parallel to the shoreline -- This gives you a visual reference and allows a quick turn‑back if wind shifts.
- Short, sharp launch -- Use a brisk, explosive push to generate lift before the wing inflates fully. Over water, the reflected surface can create a false sense of height; keep your eyes on the horizon, not on the sparkling lake.
- Establish a stable climb -- Aim for a moderate climb rate (≈ 1.2 m/s). Too fast a climb will increase wing loading and make later tricks harder to control.
Core Acrobatic Techniques
3.1 Wing‑over (Horizontal Loop)
- Entry: Accelerate to moderate speed (≈ 30 km/h). Pull the brake on the side you wish to roll toward while applying opposite aileron with weight shift.
- Execution: Keep the wing level and maintain a smooth, constant roll rate. The water's calm surface helps you gauge altitude visually.
- Exit: Release brakes as the wing completes the 360° roll and transition into a gentle dive to regain speed.
3.2 Twist (360° Yaw Spin)
- Set‑up: Fly straight, then initiate a rapid yaw by pulling one brake sharply while simultaneously applying opposite foot brake (if using foot‑controlled brakes).
- Control: Keep the wing's leading edge aligned with the airflow; over‑rotation can stall the wing, especially at low altitude above water.
- Recovery: Counter‑steer with the opposite brake and weight shift. Practice the "reverse twist" to ensure you can stop the spin in both directions.
3.3 Back‑flip (Reverse Loop)
- Prerequisite: Master the forward loop first; back‑flip puts the wing in an inverted attitude.
- Launch: Build speed, then pull both brakes aggressively while pushing the hull forward. The wing will invert and start the backward arc.
- Timing: The inversion phase is brief; anticipate the forward pressure once the wing clears the apex.
- Safety: Always have a reserve parachute pre‑armed; water landings from a back‑flip can be disorienting.
3.4 Water‑Landing Bailout
- Trigger: If you sense a loss of control within 10 m of the water surface, initiate a controlled ditch.
- Procedure: Lower both brakes, tilt the harness forward to point the nose toward the water, and prepare to release the quick‑release.
- Post‑landing: Inflate the PFD, release the harness, and swim to shore using the wing as a flotation aid if needed.
Flight‑Control Nuances Over Water
| Aspect | Adjustment | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Visual Reference | Keep eyes on distant shoreline or a fixed buoy. | Minimizes altitude misjudgment caused by water reflections. |
| Thermal Lift | Avoid climbing too high (stay ≤ 200 m AGL). | Lakes generate weak thermal updrafts; excess altitude reduces margin for error. |
| Turbulence | Use gentle, progressive brake inputs. | Sudden pressure changes over water can cause wing flutter. |
| Wing Loading | Slightly increase load (add a few kilos) for tighter turns. | Higher loading reduces wing elasticity, giving more precise control during flips. |
Mental & Physical Preparation
- Visualization: Run through each maneuver in your mind, picturing the water below and the exact brake/weight‑shift sequence.
- Breathing: Practice diaphragmatic breathing to stay calm during high‑G spins.
- Core Strength: Strong core muscles improve weight‑shift precision and reduce fatigue on longer runs.
Rescue & Emergency Considerations
- Spotters: Position at least one trained spotter on the shore with a waterproof radio.
- First‑Aid Kit: Include waterproof bandages, sea‑sickness tablets, and a thermal blanket.
- Recovery Vessel: For larger lakes, have a small motorboat on standby equipped with a tow‑line and a rescue harness.
Environmental etiquette
- Avoid wildlife disturbance -- Keep a minimum distance of 100 m from nesting birds or marine mammals.
- Leave no trace -- Collect any litter, avoid anchoring on sensitive shorelines, and respect local regulations.
Final Thoughts
Acrobatic paragliding over open‑water lakes offers a unique blend of visual drama and technical challenge. By respecting the environment, mastering wind assessment, and refining core maneuvers---while always keeping safety gear within reach---you can turn the lake's mirror‑like surface into the perfect stage for aerial artistry. Fly smart, stay aware, and enjoy the freedom of the sky reflected on the water below.