About
Founded in 1989, NOVA Performance Paragliders is one of the most respected names in the paragliding industry. The company designs and manufactures a comprehensive range of paragliding equipment, from entry-level wings to high-performance competition gliders, catering to pilots of every skill level. NOVA's current glider lineup includes the NIVO and AONIC 2 for beginners (EN A), the ION 7, ION 7 Light, MENTOR 7, and MENTOR 7 Light for intermediate pilots (EN B), the CODEX and VORTEX for advanced flyers (EN C/D), and the XENON 3 and BANTAM 2 for expert and competition pilots (EN D). The BION 3 tandem glider is also available for two-person flights. The product range covers a variety of use cases: ultralight options like the DOUBLESKIN 2 and VORTEX for hike-and-fly adventures, the MENTOR 7 as a dedicated XC (cross-country) machine, and the BANTAM 2 built specifically for para-alpinists. Harnesses, reserve parachutes, winches, and accessories round out the full equipment ecosystem. NOVA operates a global dealer network and offers a Try & Buy programme so pilots can test wings before purchasing. The website also features a B2B portal, pilot team profiles, and a dedicated service section, making it a complete resource for both end users and trade partners.
Key Features
- Full Certification Range: Wings spanning EN/LTF A (beginner) through EN/LTF D (expert/competition), covering every pilot skill level.
- Lightweight & Ultralight Options: Models like the DOUBLESKIN 2 (from 2.41 kg) and VORTEX (from 3.1 kg) are built for hike-and-fly and para-alpinism.
- XC & Performance Gliders: The MENTOR 7 and XENON 3 lines are optimised for cross-country distance and competition performance.
- Try & Buy Programme: Pilots can test gliders before committing to a purchase through NOVA's international dealer network.
- Complete Equipment Ecosystem: Beyond wings, NOVA offers harnesses, reserve parachutes, winches, and accessories for a full paragliding setup.
Use Cases
- Recreational paragliding pilots upgrading from school equipment to their first personal EN A or EN B certified wing.
- Cross-country (XC) pilots seeking high-performance EN B gliders like the MENTOR 7 to maximise distance flying.
- Para-alpinists and hike-and-fly athletes requiring ultralight, packable wings such as the BANTAM 2 or DOUBLESKIN 2.
- Advanced and competition pilots looking for two-liner EN C/D gliders like the XENON 3 or VORTEX for top performance.
- Tandem flight operators and instructors sourcing certified two-person gliders like the BION 3 for passenger flights.
Pros
- 35+ Years of Manufacturing Heritage: Founded in 1989, NOVA brings decades of research, testing, and refinement to every product.
- Wide Product Range: From ultralight hike-and-fly wings to tandem and competition gliders, NOVA covers virtually every paragliding discipline.
- Try & Buy Availability: Customers can demo wings through authorised dealers before purchasing, reducing buyer risk.
Cons
- Premium Pricing: As a top-tier manufacturer, NOVA products command higher price points compared to budget alternatives.
- Specialist Product: Paragliding equipment requires proper training and certification to use safely, limiting the addressable audience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What certification levels do NOVA gliders cover?
NOVA produces gliders certified from EN/LTF A (beginner-friendly) up to EN/LTF D (expert and competition), ensuring there is an appropriate wing for every pilot skill level.
Does NOVA offer lightweight options for hike-and-fly?
Yes. Models such as the DOUBLESKIN 2 (from 2.41 kg) and VORTEX (from 3.1 kg) are specifically designed for ultralight hike-and-fly and para-alpinism applications.
Can I try a NOVA glider before buying?
NOVA operates a Try & Buy programme through its international dealer network, allowing pilots to test wings before making a purchase decision.
Does NOVA make tandem paragliders?
Yes. The BION 3 is a 4-liner tandem glider certified EN/LTF B, approved for takeoff weights between 110 and 220 kg.
Where can I buy NOVA equipment?
NOVA products are available through an authorised global dealer network. The NOVA website also features a Shop, a dealer locator, and a B2B portal for trade partners.
