Description

Niviuk Ikuma 3 – Redefining Freedom in the Skies

Every pilot knows that the right wing transforms every flight into an unforgettable journey. The Niviuk Ikuma 3 embodies this belief with elegance, precision, and performance. Designed as the ultimate balance between accessibility and ambition, it represents the new generation of EN-B+ paragliders that redefine what intermediate performance truly means. With each curve, material, and line tension optimized, the Ikuma 3 delivers freedom that flows naturally through the sky.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Niviuk has always been known for merging technology and artistry. The Ikuma 3 continues that legacy by bridging the gap between calm exploration and dynamic adventure. Whether you’re thermalling above mountain ridges, crossing valleys on long XC routes, or pushing personal limits in turbulent air, this wing ensures confidence at every stage. It’s not just a paraglider—it’s your personal expression of flight.

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Evolution Through Intelligent Design

Innovation at Niviuk never stands still. The Ikuma 3 builds upon the celebrated Ikuma lineage, now enhanced with advanced aerodynamic shaping, precision-tuned profiles, and new lightweight yet resilient materials. The goal was simple: make a wing that feels intuitive, safe, and thrilling—without compromise.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Every millimeter of the canopy reflects years of aerodynamic research. From the leading edge’s improved airflow stability to the trailing edge’s optimized tension system, Niviuk engineers sculpted a paraglider capable of handling more dynamic conditions while maintaining forgiving feedback. The Ikuma 3’s refined internal structure distributes loads evenly, increasing durability and ensuring that energy transfers smoothly during turns, glides, or accelerated flight.

The Perfect Balance Between Performance and Comfort

Comfort in the air doesn’t mean sacrificing excitement. The Niviuk Ikuma 3 allows pilots to enjoy long flights without fatigue, thanks to its remarkably smooth handling and pitch stability. Its carefully adjusted arc ensures a predictable response during turbulence, while the new 3-line hybrid system minimizes drag and improves lift-to-drag efficiency.

Transitioning from thermalling to speed bar feels seamless. The wing reacts immediately yet never overwhelms, making it suitable for pilots stepping up from mid-B gliders who crave more performance but refuse to trade away safety.

Key Highlights of the Niviuk Ikuma 3

• 🪂 EN-B+ Classification: Ideal for progressing pilots seeking high performance with safety.

• 🌄 Hybrid 3-Line Design: Reduces drag for improved glide efficiency and speed.

• 🧠 Refined Internal Structure: Maintains canopy shape and stability under all load conditions.

• 🎯 Optimized Handling: Delivers precise, smooth, and progressive control inputs.

• ⚖️ Lightweight Construction: Enhances launch ease and reduces fatigue in flight.

• 💨 Pitch and Roll Stability: Keeps the wing calm and efficient during turbulence.

• 🧵 High-Tech Materials: Uses cutting-edge fabric from Porcher and durable riser systems.

• 🏞️ Versatility: Performs beautifully in XC, thermalling, and leisure flight scenarios.

Every element of the Ikuma 3’s design has been refined for pilots who value the feeling of freedom above all else. Whether you’re gliding through calm evening air or chasing the horizon in demanding thermals, this wing invites you to experience true harmony between pilot and machine.

 Design Philosophy – The Soul of Smooth Flight

Engineering Beyond Limits

The Ikuma 3 represents Niviuk’s dedication to aerodynamic purity. Each iteration undergoes extensive CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) testing, enabling engineers to visualize and refine airflow with precision. This ensures the wing maintains laminar flow across a wide speed range, minimizing drag and turbulence. The result is an exceptional glide ratio—especially noticeable during transitions and accelerated flight.

At the heart of the Ikuma 3’s evolution lies the concept of Smart Performance. This principle combines aerodynamic refinement, intelligent material use, and ergonomic feedback to create a wing that communicates intuitively with the pilot. Unlike traditional EN-B wings that prioritize either performance or comfort, the Ikuma 3 achieves both with elegance.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Smart Link Between Pilot and Wing

Every pilot knows that control lines and riser geometry define the feeling of flight. The Ikuma 3 introduces a more efficient riser system with refined brake geometry, giving precise and consistent feedback. The wing’s reaction to brake input is immediate, progressive, and controlled—allowing confident maneuvers even close to the stall point. This balance of sensitivity and safety makes it the perfect companion for pilots ready to step into the next level.

Seamless Aerodynamics

The leading edge features Niviuk’s Shark Nose Technology (SNT), which stabilizes internal pressure during all flight phases. This translates to enhanced pitch stability, easier inflation, and superior resistance to collapses. When flying in strong thermals, you’ll feel the canopy remain calm and steady, even in turbulent layers where lesser wings would deform or flutter.Niviuk Ikuma 3

To complement this, the Drag-Optimized Trailing Edge (DOTE) design reduces wake turbulence. Each cell tapers perfectly to ensure energy flows cleanly through the canopy, maintaining glide performance and directional efficiency.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Performance Meets Practicality

Although performance is critical, practicality is never ignored. The Ikuma 3 is easy to handle on the ground, allowing smooth inflations and controlled takeoffs even in variable wind conditions. Once airborne, its intuitive pitch control provides effortless thermalling, while the glide characteristics shine during long transitions. Pilots who regularly fly in mountain or coastal regions will appreciate its broad performance envelope and adaptability.

 Materials and Construction – Built for Longevity

Strength Without Weight

The Niviuk Ikuma 3 integrates Porcher Skytex 32 and 38 g/m² fabrics, known for their balance between strength, lightness, and UV resistance. This material selection enhances the wing’s longevity without adding unnecessary weight. The lower surface uses a lighter fabric to reduce overall mass, improving takeoff ease and minimizing inertia during flight maneuvers.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Durable, Efficient Line System

The unsheathed Aramid lines in the upper cascades reduce drag while maintaining strength, and the lower lines are sheathed for increased durability. Each line’s length and angle are carefully optimized to preserve canopy shape, ensuring predictable handling throughout the wing’s lifespan. This hybrid line configuration offers both the precision of high-performance wings and the durability of recreational gliders.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Refined Internal Architecture

Inside the wing, load distribution ribs ensure that stress spreads evenly across the structure. This not only enhances performance but also prevents material fatigue over time. With reinforced leading edge battens and intelligently placed diagonal ribs, the Ikuma 3 maintains its form even during aggressive flying or turbulence.

Niviuk Ikuma 3 In-Flight Experience and Handling Characteristics

The Sensation of Effortless Control

From the first moment your feet lift off the ground, the Niviuk Ikuma 3 feels alive beneath your hands. Every movement translates into a clear, responsive gesture from the canopy, making you instantly aware of its balance and grace. Unlike many performance-oriented wings that demand constant attention, the Ikuma 3 communicates softly yet precisely, allowing you to stay relaxed even during long flights.Niviuk Ikuma 3

The wing’s progressive brake pressure ensures that control input feels natural. When you pull slightly, the canopy responds with measured precision; when you deepen your input, it carves elegantly through the sky. This fluid control allows smooth coring of thermals, efficient turning, and easy centering without wasted energy.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Niviuk Ikuma 3 The Harmony of Stability and Freedom

While performance is undeniable, the true charm of the Ikuma 3 lies in its harmony. Stability and agility coexist in perfect proportion. The wing’s pitch-damping design prevents sudden surges or drops during turbulent air, helping pilots maintain altitude with minimal effort. Furthermore, its roll stability enables coordinated turns that feel effortless and graceful.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Every transition—from glide to climb, from accelerated flight to trim speed—flows seamlessly. Because the Shark Nose Technology keeps internal pressure constant, the canopy holds its shape even in challenging conditions. As a result, you’ll notice smoother entries into thermals and fewer pitch oscillations when exiting them.Niviuk Ikuma 3

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Confidence Through Predictability

Predictability builds confidence, and confidence unlocks progress. The Ikuma 3’s design prioritizes feedback without fear. Even when turbulence challenges your reflexes, the wing’s structure transmits clear information through the risers and brakes. You feel what the air is doing, but never in a way that startles or overloads you.

For pilots transitioning from mid-B wings, this trait is transformative. The Ikuma 3 doesn’t merely fly—it teaches. It invites smoother inputs, steadier control, and more refined piloting skills. Each flight reinforces your instincts, allowing you to advance naturally into longer cross-country adventures.

Dynamic Yet Forgiving Energy

When you accelerate, the Ikuma 3 reveals its dynamic personality. Glide performance remains consistent across the entire speed range, and bar pressure remains moderate, allowing sustained accelerated flight without fatigue. More importantly, the canopy remains cohesive at speed; there’s no nervous vibration, no unwanted twist—just pure forward efficiency.

Should conditions shift suddenly, recovery is smooth and controlled. The wing’s structure dissipates energy gradually, turning potential instability into a calm, self-correcting movement. For pilots exploring active air, this forgiveness transforms demanding flights into enjoyable challenges rather than stressful tasks.

Launch and Landing – Grace from Start to Finish

Effortless Inflation

On launch, the Ikuma 3 inspires instant confidence. Thanks to its lightweight materials and balanced internal pressure distribution, inflation begins with minimal effort—even in nil-wind scenarios. The canopy rises evenly, without overshooting, giving you full control before your feet even leave the ground.

Because of its low inertia, the wing responds immediately to subtle corrections. Whether you’re launching from an alpine slope, coastal ridge, or grassy hill, it reacts predictably and remains centered above your head.

Takeoff Precision

During takeoff, precision defines success. The Ikuma 3’s riser geometry and smooth inflation characteristics allow pilots to manage direction and lift effortlessly. Its strong internal pressure ensures the canopy remains open and stable even with asymmetrical airflow. Consequently, takeoffs are smoother, faster, and more enjoyable across all conditions.

Landing Grace

When it’s time to return to earth, the Ikuma 3 showcases its composure. Flare authority is generous, allowing soft, controlled touchdowns. As brake pressure builds gradually, pilots can fine-tune descent rates, making landings look as elegant as the flight itself. Even after hours in the air, the Ikuma 3 finishes the journey with dignity and precision.

 Flight Behavior Across Conditions

Thermalling Performance

In thermals, the Ikuma 3 excels. The wing enters rising air effortlessly, maintaining a stable bank angle that keeps you centered in the core. Its compact handling lets you carve tight circles when thermals narrow, while still providing enough float to climb efficiently in wide, gentle lift. The result is more altitude with less energy expended.

Because brake pressure remains linear, adjusting radius mid-turn is intuitive. The canopy communicates airflow changes instantly, enabling you to react with accuracy. Whether you’re ridge soaring in coastal breezes or chasing mountainous lift, the Ikuma 3’s thermalling ability consistently impresses.

Glide and Transition Efficiency

When you leave a thermal and transition toward the next one, glide efficiency becomes everything. The Ikuma 3’s aerodynamic profile minimizes drag, so you travel farther while losing less altitude. Even when accelerated, its glide ratio remains remarkably high, giving pilots more flexibility when plotting XC routes.

Long glides between thermals feel stable and predictable. Pitch oscillations are virtually absent, and the canopy slices through the air cleanly. This combination of stability and performance empowers pilots to extend distances with less physical strain.

Behavior in Turbulent Air

When the atmosphere turns rough, the Ikuma 3 continues to perform. Internal pressure stability keeps the canopy cohesive, while roll and pitch dampening filter out sudden jolts. Because the wing transmits honest but controlled feedback, pilots sense turbulence without being overwhelmed.

If collapses occur, recovery is prompt and balanced. The wing reopens cleanly without violent surges, reflecting Niviuk’s commitment to safety through intelligent design.

Comfort and Ergonomics – Designed Around You

Comfort Over Distance

Every cross-country pilot knows that endurance depends on comfort. The Ikuma 3 delivers an exceptional ergonomic experience. Its brake geometry allows natural hand positioning, reducing fatigue on long flights. The risers are easy to grip, and brake handles fit securely even when wearing gloves.

Visual and Sensory Feedback

The canopy’s stability provides visual reassurance, while its subtle movements convey precise information about surrounding air currents. This sensory clarity helps pilots stay connected with the atmosphere, enhancing both enjoyment and control. Because the wing never feels disconnected, you experience flying as a dialogue rather than a command.

Reduced Pilot Load

Through intelligent weight distribution and smooth pitch behavior, the Ikuma 3 minimizes pilot workload. You can relax, focus on route decisions, and enjoy the beauty around you instead of constantly managing the wing. Over hours of flight, that reduction in effort translates to longer endurance and a more enjoyable overall experience.

Safety and Certification Confidence

Built-In Safety

Safety has always been Niviuk’s foundation. The Ikuma 3, certified EN-B+, incorporates the latest passive safety technologies while retaining performance. Structural reinforcements, optimized tensioning, and refined cell openings reduce collapse tendencies, making recovery swift and controlled.

Recovery Behavior

In test scenarios, the Ikuma 3 exhibits clean and predictable recovery from all standard maneuvers—collapses, stalls, and spirals. Because energy dissipates gradually, it avoids abrupt reactions. This gives pilots time to react calmly, making it an ideal glider for those aiming to grow skills safely.

Training and Progression

The Ikuma 3 bridges the gap between beginner progression and advanced cross-country flying. Its balance of stability, energy, and precision allows intermediate pilots to gain experience under a forgiving canopy while exploring new flight envelopes. As skills evolve, the wing continues to deliver new performance layers without ever feeling outdated.

Technical data

Size			20	22	24	26	28	30
TOTAL WEIGHT IN FLIGHT	MIN-MAX	kg	55-75	65-85	75-95	85-105	95-115	105-130
CELLS	NUMBER		62	62	62	62	62	62
ASPECT RATIO	FLAT		5.7	5.7	5.7	5.7	5.7	5.7
	PROJECTED		4.4	4.4	4.4	4.4	4.4	4.4
AREA	FLAT	m²	19.8	21.8	23.8	25.8	27.8	29.8
	PROJECTED	m²	16.87	18.58	20.28	21.99	23.69	25.39
SPAN	FLAT	m	10.62	11.15	11.65	12.13	12.59	13.03
CHORD	MAXIMUM	m	2.29	2.41	2.51	2.62	2.72	2.81
LINES	TOTAL	m	203	214	224	233	242	251
	MAIN		2-1/4/2	2-1/4/2	2-1/4/2	2-1/4/2	2-1/4/2	2-1/4/2
RISERS	NUMBER		A-A’/B/C	A-A’/B/C	A-A’/B/C	A-A’/B/C	A-A’/B/C	A-A’/B/C
	SPEED-BAR	mm	180	180	180	180	180	180
GLIDER WEIGHT		kg	4*	4.2	4.5	4.7	5	5.3
CERTIFICATION			EN/LTF B+	EN/LTF B+	EN/LTF B+	EN/LTF B+	EN/LTF B+	EN/LTF B+

* to be confirmed

Colours

Standard colours: Fuchsia, Nimbus, Mars, Unakit.

Custom colours: Choose your colours and email us the colour reference with your order. Include a screenshot if you can. Full payment required upfront to confirm your order after which it cannot be cancelled.

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Package

• Inner bag
• Compression straps
• Risers covers
• Repair kit

Related Products (optional extras)

• Kargo Backpack (Size 130L recommended for sizes 22, 24; size 160L recommended for sizes 26, 28 and 30)

Ikuma 3: EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Target

Progression

Complete your training phase with a glider that will allow you to polish your skills and gain confidence flight after flight.

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Cross-country

Explore long distance flying with confidence, thanks to this high performance EN-B wing that will provide safety and control.

Features

Maximum comfort

Comfort is key and the Ikuma 3 offers it in abundance, even improving the flying experience compared to its predecessor.

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Real performance

Niviuk has redesigned this Ikuma model to offer improved performance and an even more exciting flying experience. Technically improved as a hybrid 3/2-liner, compared to the Ikuma 2, drag has been reduced by 8%.

Niviuk Ikuma 3 Optimal manoeuvrability

Niviuk has improved the response at the top of the brakes to provide more direct and comfortable steering. The Ikuma 3 is manoeuvrable and responds predictably to the pilot’s inputs, making it more enjoyable to fly.

Safety, Niviuks top priority

Thanks to the Niviuk technologies applied, the Ikuma 3 is a high performance glider, but they have kept its high passive safety.

Niviuk Ikuma 3 More stable

The Ikuma 3 stands out for its improved pitch stability. Explore altitude with confidence and exceptional performance.

Comparative chart of the Ikuma 3 vs Ikuma 3 P and the Ikuma 3 vs Ikuma 2

Other reviews

“Launching the Ikuma 3 even in no wind conditions, rises smoothly and evenly. The Ikuma 3 rises effortlessly in more windy take-offs and stays above the pilot’s head with a little brake. The Ikuma 3 even at 88 all up, can core thermals very narrow staying in the core very easily. The combination of the Arrow/Ikuma 3 while weightshifting and brake pulling is nothing but excellent!   In a more strong thermals, and flying it at 93 all up, the handling is even better! and coring is even more satisfying! A piece of pure pleasure while thermal flying. The pitch is neutral and hands up all the way the Ikuma 3 enters the airmass slowly but efficiently. It clings to the thermal and climbs effortlessly. It feels like it guides you into the thermal. It doesn’t reject the rising airmass but seems to slide and cling to it slowly. All you need to do is let it fly, keeping the minimum of brake pressure. It floats nicely into the rising air mass.

Conclusion: Even after many testing years, some gliders even in the high B category, still give me those happy flying vibes! The Ikuma 3 is one of them.  A very comfortable high B with pleasurable handling and top-end performance for the category. It is very clear, that flying the Ikuma 3 will firstly touch the sensitive handling pilots by delivering a high amount of pleasure feel. All that with very good brake authority. Pilots have different feel, and different requirements, but I can assure you test flying the Ikuma 3 won’t keep you indifferent!  ”

– Ziad Bassil, Dust of the universe, full review

Niviuk Technologies

Optimised C2B system

The new riser-integrated C2B system allows this 3-liner to be flown as if it were a 2-liner, which has increased comfort. A handle lowers the B and C-risers at the same time. These are connected through a pulley system to maintain the optimal shape of the profile. This allows the glider to be flown and steered without degrading its shape, even at high speeds.Cross-country paragliding wing

Hybrid 3/2-liner

Thanks to the hybrid 3/2-liner system, Niviuk has reduced drag by 8% and the total number of lines used. This new line layout does not affect the handling compared to the Ikuma 2.

Lightweight paragliding wing Improved DRS integration

The application of mini-ribs on the trailing edge reduces drag and improves the aerodynamic shape of the wing. The DRS technology has been optimised: the mini-ribs are integrated directly into the outer panels, eliminating external seams for a cleaner and more efficient profile.Niviuk Ikuma 3 review

Perfected aerodynamic profile

The new profile of the Ikuma 3 increases stability in both roll and pitch and further improves the overall performance of the wing.

  Niviuk Ikuma 3 review New Nitinol rod distribution

The use of Nitinol rods (TNT technology) has been reduced by 18% to achieve a more compact packing.

Stability at any angle of attack

The application of RAM technology ensures that the internal pressure of the wing is optimal and that the profile maintains its ideal shape in all flight conditions.Lightweight paragliding wing

Learn more about Niviuk Paraglider Technologies

Downloads

• Manual IKUMA 3 – PDF
• Certification IKUMA 3 – PDF
• Technical specifications IKUMA 3 – PDF
• Glider folding manual – PDF