Velvet, Gorgeous!

A review from Aerial Magazine, written by Franck Lechenet

Aerial magazine was privileged last November, to test a prototype of the Velvet, a glider produced by Mac Para Technology for release in early 2008.

With this semi reflex profile, the Czech producer will probably establish a strong market position quickly with this enjoyable and functional product. Easy to inflate, light on the brakes and dynamic on handling, the Velvet should seduce a majority of pilots, even though its certification is predicted to be in the intermediate category. It’s the logical addition to the Eden and Spice models, already appreciated for their performance. It will be sold in three sizes, 23/26/29 with a weight range from 90Kg to 150Kg.

Presentation

As usual Mac Para took their time; over a year, in order to produce a product with the brand’s usual abilities. Easy take-off, sweet landing and precise handling were required to join an expanding market.
Worked out to the tiniest detail, the Velvet has special PPG risers with thinner brake handles, designed to suit any type of machine. 6 cm long rear trims allow slower and faster flying, although most of today’s pilots might prefer longer ones. This short trimmer system is the result of a security concept within the homologation scales. Nevertheless, longer trimmers can be ordered, but pilots choosing this option will lose the security of EN certification. Nevertheless, the speed difference is obvious with the longer trimmers, and they will please a bunch of sport pilots.

Inflation

A jewel! I must sincerely admit that this inflation is among the best! The canopy climbs regularly and fast, without over-shooting. In nil-wind, it is the best gift one could wish for. The Velvet’s profile is certainly not a pure reflex, and the take off is probably a positive consequence of this. As far as many PPG pilots have take-off difficulties, they will probably love this hybrid paraglider, in which they will find the best compromise.

The climb is fast and reliable. The gear was loaned to Sebastian Blanchon, a pilot from Lons-Le-Saunier, during the “Raid Maroc”, and he still has warm memories of his flight. After flying for almost 2 hours over sand dunes, he had to land due to his empty tank. He said being seduced with an intense smile. So was Ewald, a long-established pilot who knows the brand’s characteristics pretty well.

In Flight

Having already flown the Eden and the Spice from Mac Para, I recognized the Brand’s usual touch. An agreeable feeling of safety; almost non-existent propeller-torque; precise handling; and reactive controls will satisfy most pilots. Spinning 360° and curves are happening, and backing to stable flight is being done naturally, with a good sight control due to the speed. Turns are easy without any tendency for collapse. Because we had no chance to fly in strong thermals during the tests, we can’t comment on the Velvet’s reliability in turbulence.

With factory homologated trims closed to the slowest speed, the Velvet reacts similarly to free flight paragliders: climbing in thermals and dynamic lift will be precise. Fuel will consequently be saved. With open trims, maximum speed is not as high as expected, that’s why the addition of non-homologated one’s should be considered.
Landing is soft and easy, with no need for big brake inputs.

Conclusion

Mac Para has thought about everything for you. The Velvet is not a replica of others pure reflex profiles, and should be recommended to anyone, for their greatest pleasure. Designed in three different sizes for a big weight range, its EN certification should only be an administrative job.