The ADVANCE WEIGHTLESS harness represents a cutting-edge ultralight cross-country (XC) paragliding harness designed by ADVANCE, evolved from the highly regarded X-Alps race harness. It appeals to pilots prioritizing weight savings without compromising on robustness, comfort, or essential safety features. Tailored for ambitious hike-to-XC, vol-biv, and competition flying, where aerodynamic efficiency, minimal weight, and compact packing are crucial, the WEIGHTLESS offers a competitive edge with full XC functionality.
Design and Structural Features
Structurally, the WEIGHTLESS harness shares its core design—the seatshell, internal frame, and strap geometry—with the X-Alps athletes’ race harness, ensuring reliability and race-proven performance. It is available in three pilot sizes (S, M, L) to fit a wide height range from 155 to 200 cm. Despite its ultralight pedigree, the harness includes a fully certified protection system up to 120 kg, starting at an impressively low ready-to-fly weight of 1.90 kg for size S. Notably, this quoted weight includes the reserve container, carabiners, cockpit, protector elements, and all accessories, presenting a realistic basis for comparison against competitors.
Innovative Protection and Aerodynamics
A standout feature is the Twin-Fit Protector system, combining a main foam protector integrated into the harness and an optional removable rucksack/back-foam element. This modular design enhances packing flexibility and provides configurable protection according to pilot preference or flight demands. The aerodynamic shaping extends to the back fairing with dual air scoops, which inflate tautly to reduce drag while improving yaw and longitudinal stability during gliding and accelerated flight. These refinements translate directly into better performance and pilot comfort on long-distance flights.
Materials, Accessories, and Practicality
The harness incorporates lightweight, high-strength materials such as D-PRO XTR 4 mm lines rated at 15 kN for the main straps, robust but lightweight nylons, and ultra-lightweight Grivel Plume carabiners (22 kN, 37 g each). The speedbag uses stretch elastane for an efficient seal and ergonomic comfort. The integrated LIGHTPACK ULS rucksack complements the harness, designed with ultralight materials and available in sizes from 52 to 70 liters to match pilot and flight needs.
Despite its lean weight, the WEIGHTLESS retains full operational capability: it integrates a built-in reserve container linked to shoulder supports to reduce mis-rigging risk and avoid front container bulk. Other features include a full speed system with carbon Footboard 2.0, Ronstan pulleys, a windshield with cover, step-in aid, and a detachable ultralight cockpit equipped with an instrument panel, closable pocket, and separate battery compartment. The harness speedbag also comes interchangeable in three sizes, allowing ergonomic customization and long-term serviceability.
Durability Considerations
ADVANCE emphasizes the “Handle with Care” label, indicating the WEIGHTLESS harness’s sensitivity to mechanical wear due to its ultralight construction. Selective reinforcements increase durability compared to pure race harnesses like the LIGHTNESS XA, but pilots must treat it gently to ensure longevity—avoiding dragging, harsh landings, or abrasion is especially important.
Market Positioning and Pilot Suitability
In the market, the WEIGHTLESS stands out as the first serial ultralight XC harness certified for up to 120 kg with an integrated reserve system (no front container needed). Many rivals offer only 100 kg certification or require front-mounted reserves, potentially compromising aerodynamics and packing. With race-derived aerodynamic efficiency, modular speedbag options, and a thoughtfully complete scope of delivery, the WEIGHTLESS suits serious XC pilots seeking competition-level performance alongside practical daily hike-and-fly and vol-biv usability.
Customer Feedback and User Insights
Although direct pilot reviews of the WEIGHTLESS harness are less publicly aggregated than the product specs, ADVANCE’s reputation coupled with the X-Alps heritage suggests high pilot confidence in durability, fit, and performance. The balance of ultralight weight with robust features addresses a highly specialized niche, attracting pilots who demand cutting-edge technology but need safety and reliability beyond race conditions.
Prospective buyers should consider their flying style; the WEIGHTLESS is ideal for pilots whose priorities include weight savings for uphill hikes, aerodynamic speed, and versatile packing options without sacrificing cockpit functionality or safety assurance.
For further details about the ADVANCE WEIGHTLESS harness, visit the manufacturer's website. To purchase and explore more paragliding equipment, order conveniently at Paragliding.me.