The Advance OMEGA ULS is an ultra-lightweight, EN/LTF D-class two-liner paraglider tailor-made for very experienced, performance-focused pilots. It is specifically designed for cross-country flying, hike-and-fly racing, and high-level competitions such as the demanding Red Bull X-Alps. Its core concept blends top-tier competitive performance with remarkably low weight and relatively accessible handling for its demanding class.
Design and Certification
Derived from Advance’s extensive X-Alps racing experience, the OMEGA ULS targets pilots who prioritize efficiency across the entire speed range rather than peak speeds alone. It features a high aspect ratio of 6.8 with 63 cells, spanning from 11.87 m to 12.71 m depending on size, positioning it firmly in the high-performance EN-D two-line segment. Four sizes accommodate certified takeoff weights from 65 to 113 kg, with carefully tuned “seamless weight ranges” designed to ensure each pilot finds an ideal size that balances climb and speed perfectly. All sizes carry EN/LTF D certification—an assurance that the wing is crafted for skilled pilots comfortable with its level of complexity and active flying demands.
Materials and Construction
A key highlight is its extreme weight optimization, with glider weights from just 3.05 kg (size 21) to 3.40 kg (size 24), approximately 250 grams lighter than its predecessor. This ultralight nature is achieved through a sophisticated internal structure incorporating sliced diagonals and micro cross-ports, combined with a high-tech fabric mix including Skytex 27 and 32 for exposed surfaces and ultra-light Dominico DOKDO 10 on the lower surface. Durable Nitinol rods in the leading edge maintain shape stability and resist deformation, striking a balance between minimal pack volume and structural integrity. The line setup employs Edelrid Pro Dry unsheathed aramid lines, with color-coding to ease pre-flight checks, and risers integrate a modern two-liner control system for precise speed and brake manipulation.
Handling and Pilot Feedback
Pilots and independent testers unanimously praise the OMEGA ULS for its light, precise, and agile handling characteristics relative to its performance class. Reviews highlight its excellent takeoff behavior—remarkably simple inflation, smooth launch, and a strong tendency to rise quickly—as vital for challenging hike-and-fly conditions. In-flight, it delivers solid, stable handling in turbulent air and exceptional agility in thermals, helping pilots efficiently optimize climbs. X-Alps champions like Chrigel Maurer and other sponsored pilots note the wing’s improved lightness and ease of control over predecessors, a feature that reduces pilot fatigue during grueling race days. Brake pressures are reported as low and well-balanced, allowing for tactically focused flying rather than constant wing management.
Thermik Magazine’s independent test emphasized the glider’s excellent thermal handling, stability, and a performance package likely to “hook” ambitious EN-D pilots for the long term. Similarly, pilots new to the X-Alps competition commend its forgiving yet high-speed performance, calling it the “easiest X-Alps glider” they’ve flown, which underlines its accessible nature despite the two-line D-class complexity.
Performance Characteristics
The OMEGA ULS impresses with top-end speed and an exceptional glide ratio, especially apparent when flying on speed bar. Its design favors efficiency and real-world XC conditions over raw trim-speed numbers, making it not only fast but also highly effective in headwinds and thermal climbs. Pilots report that this combination helps maintain competitive positioning even in tough race conditions like the X-Alps, where performance and pilot endurance are critical. Its status as a frequent choice among elite hike-and-fly competitors and podium finishers further underscores the wing’s competitive credentials.
Weight and Practicality for Hike & Fly
With its exceptionally light build, the OMEGA ULS stands out in the hike-and-fly market segment. Its compact packing and low weight reduce pilot burden significantly on demanding treks. This ultralight quality does not compromise durability thanks to innovative construction elements like compact fabrics and nitinol rods, though pilots understand the trade-off for long-term ruggedness in favor of performance optimization. The supplied gear includes a COMPRESSBAG ULS, repair kit, and mini windsock, with optional lightweight accessories designed to round out a compact racing setup.
Limitations and Considerations
As an EN-D two-liner designed for high-demand competition use, the OMEGA ULS requires advanced piloting skills, including active flying techniques and SIV experience. It is not suitable for beginner or casual pilots. The wing’s highly purpose-built design prioritizes lightweight, performance, and racing efficiency rather than everyday durability or comfort. Early customer and pilot reviews confirm these expectations but caution prospective buyers to carefully assess their skill level and flying goals. Long-term owner feedback on durability and performance retention is still limited due to the glider's recent release.
Market Reception and Value
Current market observations indicate strong demand with second-hand wings retaining high value and appearing in as-new condition, reflecting the wing’s reputation within the competitive hike-and-fly community. Early pilot reviews, professional tests, and input from top-level athletes are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting its blend of ease-of-use and race-ready performance. For serious XC and competition pilots seeking an elite ultralight two-line glider, the OMEGA ULS represents a cutting-edge choice.
In conclusion, the Advance OMEGA ULS is a refined, high-performance racing paraglider that combines ultralight construction with stable, agile handling for experienced pilots focused on competition and serious cross-country flying. It offers a unique balance of speed, efficiency, and pilot-friendly behavior in the demanding EN-D class, making it a compelling option for ambitious hike-and-fly racers and cross-country enthusiasts looking for an edge in demanding conditions.
For those interested in exploring the OMEGA ULS further and considering it for their paragliding arsenal, you can find detailed information on the manufacturer's website. To order top paragliding equipment and accessories, visit Paragliding.me.