Introduction to the ICARO Square Light
The ICARO Square Light is a cutting-edge cross-canopy rescue parachute designed for paragliding pilots who prioritize a lightweight yet highly reliable emergency solution. This square-shaped rescue parachute integrates advanced design features that emphasize rapid deployment and superior stability, critical factors in emergency descents for paragliders. With the unique square planform and corner vents, it effectively reduces lateral swaying compared to traditional round canopies, enhancing control and safety, especially in challenging conditions close to terrain or turbulent air.
Key Features and Design Benefits
Focusing on the needs of Hike & Fly and minimalist solo paraglider pilots, the Square Light not only minimizes weight and packing volume but also retains top-level performance and safety attributes. Its design priorities include:
- Fast opening time: Vital for emergency situations with limited altitude.
- High pendulum stability: Reduces oscillations post-deployment, allowing for better landing predictability.
- Low sink rate: Under 5.5 m/s at max certified load, lowering impact forces on landing.
- Ease of packing: Facilitates frequent repacking common in training or testing scenarios.
- Compactness and low weight: Total system weight ranging from 0.90 to 1.20 kg with pack volumes between 2600 and 3700 cm³ across sizes.
Technical Specifications
The Square Light is offered in three sizes to accommodate a comprehensive range of pilot weights and equipment setups:
| Model | Area (m²) | Max Load (kg) | Weight incl. container (kg) | Pack Volume (cm³) | Sink Rate (m/s) | Center Line Length (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Square Light 90 | 18.75 | 60–90 | 0.90 | 2600 | <5.5 | 4660 |
| Square Light 110 | 22.9 | 73–110 | 1.05 | 2900 | <5.5 | 5150 |
| Square Light 130 | 27.2 | 87–130 | 1.20 | 3700 | <5.5 | 5610 |
Certification and Safety Standards
All three sizes of the Square Light carry certification (EP_343.2023, EP_344.2023, EP_345.2023), confirming compliance with the latest paraglider rescue system safety standards. This certification reassures pilots about the product's reliability and adherence to stringent safety testing protocols.
Customer Feedback and Market Context
As the "Square Light" name is used by several unrelated products outside of paragliding, there is no consolidated customer review data for this specific rescue parachute model. However, within the hiking and paragliding community, lightweight and compact rescue systems like the Square Light are well-regarded for their blend of portability and performance improvement. The modern square canopy design is specifically appreciated for its stability and faster opening times, which critical situations demand.
Feedback for similarly named square lighting products — which differ entirely in application — highlights the importance of proper installation hardware and user-preferred light warmth and brightness. While these points do not directly apply to the parachute, they illustrate how product specifics strongly influence customer satisfaction and usability in distinct product categories.
Conclusion
The ICARO Square Light rescue parachute represents a modern solution tailored for pilots who refuse to compromise safety for weight savings. Its advanced square canopy design enhances pendulum stability and deployment speed, critical factors in enhancing pilot survivability during emergencies. The variety of sizes available ensures a good fit for a wide range of pilots, further enhancing its appeal for focused paragliding disciplines like Hike & Fly. Despite its lightweight and compact construction, it meets rigorous certification standards, underscoring its dependable performance.
For those serious about upgrading their safety equipment without the bulk, the Square Light is a compelling choice. For more detailed specifications or to order this equipment, visit the manufacturer's website and purchase through Paragliding.me.