The LIGHTPACK DLS by ADVANCE is a lightweight, ergonomically designed paragliding backpack tailored for pilots prioritizing comfort, practicality, and low weight during hike-and-fly or cross-country flights. Available in 81 and 91-litre volumes with a starting weight as low as 620 g, it is ideal for pilots using modern light or semi-light wings and harnesses who still require sufficient capacity for all flying essentials, including clothing and accessories.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The backpack's adjustable shoulder straps enable customized fit across various body sizes and load arrangements, while the ergonomic waist belt effectively transfers weight from the shoulders to the hips for improved comfort on extended hikes. Notably, the waist belt incorporates a zipped key pocket, enhancing usability by securing keys and small essentials within easy reach.
Functional Design for Paragliding
Functionality is clearly optimized for paragliding needs: an external helmet holder frees interior space to keep the main compartment organized, and elasticated side pockets offer quick access to trekking poles, water bottles, or other gear during ascents without unpacking. The removable back foam adds carrying structure and can double as protective padding when paired with the ADVANCE WEIGHTLESS harness, promoting system versatility for owners of that harness.
Dimensions and Capacity
The 81-litre version measures 78 × 33 × 34 cm and starts at 620 g, while the 91-litre option is slightly larger at 82 × 34 × 35 cm with a minimal weight increase to 640 g. This minimal difference allows pilots to select their preferred volume without significant weight penalty, accommodating typical setups that include a paraglider, lightweight reversible or pod harness, reserve, and clothing.
Limitations
The LIGHTPACK DLS is currently only offered in “glacier blue,” which may deter those preferring more discreet or dirt-masking colors. Additionally, the pack does not emphasize advanced ventilation or highly water-resistant fabrics, potentially limiting comfort or protection in very hot or wet conditions. Its streamlined, flight-specific organization is simpler than more technical mountaineering backpacks, reflecting its niche use.
Customer and Dealer Feedback
While direct customer reviews focusing solely on the LIGHTPACK DLS are scarce, feedback primarily emerges from its integration within the Advance Lightness 4 paraglider harness package, where it is praised as a positive and complementary element. Key insights include:
- Comfort and Ergonomics: The pack is consistently described as “very comfortable,” with particular praise for ergonomically shaped shoulder straps, padded back sections, and mesh back support, especially noted when used alongside the Lightness 4 harness. Its light weight (~620 g) combined with padding is a strong advantage for hike-and-fly pilots and longer walk-ins.
- Weight and Capacity: Dealers affirm the pack realistically accommodates a weight-optimized wing, light harness with reserve, helmet, and a clothing layer, with no widespread complaints about insufficient volume. However, pilots with bulkier, non-ultralight gear may find packing tight, reflecting its design focus on lightweight setups.
- Usability and Organization: Positive mentions include the adjustable hip belt with zipped pocket, elastic side pockets for drinks or poles, and a rear mesh pocket for quick jacket access. The pack is described as compact and easy to carry, with no major complaints about accessibility or load imbalance.
- Build Quality and Durability: ADVANCE maintains a reputation for high finish and precision craftsmanship, which extends to the LIGHTPACK DLS. There are no notable reports of premature wear or hardware failures, suggesting dependable quality.
- System Integration: The pack is highlighted as an integral part of the Lightness 4 system, forming a compact, comfortable package that is positively regarded by retailers and pilots alike.
- Criticisms: The main drawbacks are the limited color choice, volume optimized for light setups (which might be restrictive for heavier pilots or bulkier gear), and competitive pricing relative to other lightweight packs on the market, which may influence purchase decisions depending on brand loyalty and budget.
Conclusion
In summary, the ADVANCE LIGHTPACK DLS stands out as a thoughtfully engineered, lightweight paraglider backpack designed with pilot comfort and practical flying needs in mind. It excels in ergonomics, external storage solutions, and seamless integration with ADVANCE harnesses, particularly the Lightness 4. Its volume and weight balance suit pilots flying light or semi-light cross-country and thermal setups, especially those invested in the ADVANCE ecosystem. Potential buyers should consider the pack’s niche focus and color options when comparing it to alternative models.
For more information, visit the manufacturer's website, and to order equipment, explore offerings at Paragliding.me.