The UP makalu 5 is a thoughtfully designed low-end EN/LTF B paraglider that bridges the gap for pilots moving up from beginner A-class wings, offering a safe yet sporty option for everyday flying and cross-country (XC) adventures. It enhances its predecessor, the Makalu 4, by delivering improved glide and a higher top speed while maintaining easy and reassuring handling characteristics throughout all flight phases, from takeoff to thermalling and accelerated flight. This performance balance makes the makalu 5 an excellent choice for progressing pilots, occasional flyers, and safety-conscious XC enthusiasts.
Design and Construction Highlights
The makalu 5 features UP’s signature precise and informative handling but with intentionally damped roll feedback to avoid nervousness, maintaining comfort and confidence in various air conditions. Its certification as a low-B wing ensures big safety margins, making collapses and extreme situations more manageable—a critical factor for pilots prioritizing passive safety. This wing’s modern performance stems from an optimized 3-line, 46-cell design with a moderate flat aspect ratio of 5.3 that balances efficiency, durability, and simplicity. UP’s choice of robust Dominico 30D fabric on the top and bottom, paired with Porcher Skytex 40 Hard Finish internally, focuses on long-term reliability rather than ultralight weight. This results in a wing weight of around 4.1 kg for size XS up to 5.3 kg in size L, suitable for everyday use, school training, and club flying rather than hiking-focused flights.
Advanced Technologies Integrated
- Maximum Suspension Airfoils (MSA): Enhanced profiles for passive safety and forgiving handling.
- Double 3D Shaping (D3D): Extra seams near the leading edge for smooth airflow and improved stability.
- Air Intake Pockets (AIP): Design that keeps intakes clean and maintains stable pressure during acceleration.
- Mini Ribs (MRS): Short ribs at the trailing edge for reduced drag and flutter, boosting glide and climb efficiency.
- Front Section Support (FSS): Nose rods to stabilize the leading edge at higher speeds.
- Optimised Line Scheme (OLS): Reduced line length and count to minimize drag without compromising shape.
- Brake Tension System (BTS): Brake line attachment method that cleans the trailing edge for better thermalling.
- Easy Clean Pockets (ECP): Small tip openings to easily remove debris accumulated during launch and landing.
Performance and Pilot Feedback
The makalu 5 shows improved glide and top speed compared to the Makalu 4, thanks to profile updates and optimized materials shared partly with the Rimo 2 EN A glider. Test pilots note that inflation and launch processes are straightforward and reliable, even in rough terrain. Turns and thermalling are intuitive, with the wing naturally centring in thermals without constant input. Brake pressure is firm yet precise, avoiding overcontrol while allowing good maneuverability.
In turbulent air and rotors, the wing’s reactions are smooth and well-damped, rarely necessitating aggressive corrections. This stability, combined with the Maximum Suspension Airfoils design, prioritizes passive safety and makes the makalu 5 remarkably resistant to misbehavior for its aspect ratio. Glide and sink rates are very competitive for a low-B wing, especially when flown near the upper end of its certified weight range. While not designed for cutting-edge performance, its manageable handling enables pilots to leverage its characteristics effectively on XC flights.
Comfort and Usability
A key appeal of the makalu 5 is that it reduces pilot workload, allowing pilots to focus on flying decisions and route strategy instead of constant wing management. This makes it well suited to pilots transitioning out of school gliders and those seeking an enjoyable, forgiving wing that offers confidence-building stability rather than adrenaline-fueled competition performance. The wing’s durability and fully sheathed lines also make pre-flight preparation simpler and reduce line tangles—important convenience factors especially valued in training or club environments.
Target Audience and Use Cases
UP positions the makalu 5 as a progression wing ideal for pilots moving up from EN A class gliders, recreational thermal and modest XC pilots who require a versatile daily wing, and pilots who prioritize passive safety alongside comfort and predictability. The glider’s certified weight ranges from 58 to 130 kg across five sizes provide flexibility for various pilot weights and loading preferences. Higher loading produces a more dynamic feel, while lighter loading increases stability.
Notably, the manufacturer documents significant XC achievements such as flights over 200 km, challenging the perception that low-B wings are purely training tools and demonstrating the Makalu 5’s capability for serious cross-country flying.
Package and Customization
The makalu 5 package includes the wing, a concertina-style Flex Bag, riser bag, compression strap, repair kit, an electronic manual, and a small UP gift. A UP backpack is an optional accessory. Customers can select from three standard color schemes or customize their wing’s colors through UP’s online configurator, enhancing personal expression.
Critical Perspective and Market Position
While the makalu 5 excels in safety, handling, and durability, it is not an ultra-lightweight wing due to its robust fabric and comprehensive line sheathing. This may be a trade-off for pilots seeking the lightest hike-and-fly setups. Its performance ceiling is defined by the low-B design, so ambitious XC pilots may eventually seek mid or high-B wings as they progress further. Additionally, UP’s brand visibility varies regionally, sometimes limiting local dealer and test wing availability compared to larger mainstream brands.
Summary
In conclusion, the UP makalu 5 is a modern, robust low-B paraglider designed with a clear emphasis on passive safety, pilot comfort, and ease of handling. It serves as a trustworthy progression wing for pilots advancing from beginner gliders, as well as a reliable “do-it-all” wing for recreational pilots prioritizing safety and longevity over maximal performance. Its balance of solid performance, user-friendly features, and durable construction places it as a strong contender for pilots seeking a comfortable and engaging wing for everyday thermal and XC flying.
For more detailed specifications, pilot reviews, and ordering options, please visit the manufacturer's website and order your equipment by Paragliding.me.