Description
Advance Lightness 3 – Ultralight Precision, Redefined Comfort
The Advance Lightness 3 is more than a lightweight cross-country paragliding harness—it’s a revolution for pilots who demand exceptional flight feeling, top-tier safety, and ultimate comfort in one aerodynamic design. Built upon the legacy of its highly successful predecessor, the Lightness 2, this next-gen model introduces a whole new spectrum of refinement. Whether you’re gliding through alpine thermals or chasing distance records, the Advance Lightness 3 amplifies every moment in the air.
Elevate Every Flight with the Advance Lightness 3
Engineered with cutting-edge materials, advanced ergonomic support, and intuitive features, the Lightness 3 delivers a smooth, dynamic experience. At just 2.75 kg (in size M including protector and speedbag), this harness meets the demands of serious XC adventurers, hike-and-fly pilots, and weight-conscious aviators. Its modular system lets you choose your perfect balance between weight, safety, and pack volume.
Unlike conventional harnesses, the Advance Lightness 3 combines aerodynamic performance with a comfort-driven cocoon that adapts to your flying posture. You’ll notice the difference right from the launch—and appreciate it even more on long flights.
Why Choose the Advance Lightness 3?
Because excellence in the air demands a harness that responds like an extension of your body. Every curve, strap, and fabric in the Lightness 3 has been designed to minimize drag while maximizing control, feedback, and flight enjoyment.
Mastering Flight with the Advance Lightness 3
Flying with the Advance Lightness 3 is not only intuitive—it’s empowering. Because this harness blends comfort, control, and aerodynamic precision, pilots often find their confidence and performance levels rapidly improving. Whether you’re transitioning from a standard seatboard harness or leveling up from the Lightness 2, the path to mastery is smooth and rewarding.lightness 4
Step 1: Understanding Your Harness
Before taking off, familiarize yourself with every aspect of the Lightness 3. Unlike bulkier harnesses, its modular design and precise adjustments allow for full-body integration during flight.lightness 4
Start with these adjustments:
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Leg Straps – Ensure secure yet flexible positioning for smooth transitions.
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Shoulder Straps – Adjust for upright posture during launch and comfort in glide.
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Back Angle – Tune this based on your desired recline and flight style.
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Speedbag Tension – Keep snug for reduced drag and added support.
Every small tweak enhances your feel and improves handling.
Step 2: Ground Handling for Familiarity
Practicing kiting with the Advance Lightness 3 builds crucial muscle memory. While this harness is cocoon-style, the weight distribution keeps it stable and predictable during inflation and takeoff runs.lightness 4
lightness 4 Focus on these elements:
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Posture Awareness – Stay upright and centered in the harness during inflation.
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Footwork Drills – Practice smooth running and braking to simulate takeoff movement.
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Harness Transitions – Work on slipping into the speedbag quickly and confidently post-launch.
By mastering transitions on the ground, you reduce the cognitive load during flight.
Step 3: Air Time – Comfort Leads to Confidence
Once airborne, the Advance Lightness 3 feels like an extension of your body. Because the harness is ergonomically shaped, you’ll notice improved posture, less strain, and greater stability across thermal surges and glides.lightness 4
Mid-flight mastery tips:
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Relax into the support system – Let the seat and back shell carry your weight.
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Use core muscles to shift weight – Effective weight shifting increases wing responsiveness.
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Engage speedbar gradually – Trust the tight cocoon to stay streamlined and steady.
Even after hours in the air, the reduced fatigue helps you stay sharp for landings or route changes.
Step 4: Efficient Landings
Nailing landings with the Lightness 3 becomes second nature with repetition. As you approach your LZ, prepare to exit the speedbag early enough to regain a neutral, upright stance.
Landing checklist:
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Slide forward in the harness as you near the ground.
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Extend legs early for clear visual cues and body readiness.
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Flare gradually, using subtle corrections with brake toggles.
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Stay loose but attentive to ground slope and wind direction.
Because the harness responds cleanly to body shifts, your landings will feel soft and predictable.
Step 5: Mastering Advanced Techniques
As you gain experience, you’ll want to test your limits. The Advance Lightness 3 is perfectly suited for dynamic flying, accelerated glides, and technical transitions.
Here’s how to evolve your skills:
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Practice long-bar glides – Combine speedbar use with weight shifting for ridge surfing or valley crossing.
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Experiment with tight thermals – Feel how the harness mirrors your inputs while staying stable.
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Train collapses (under supervision) – The ergonomic shell and safety systems offer peace of mind in SIV maneuvers.
With every flight, you’ll learn to trust the harness more—and the wing will start to feel more alive in your hands.
✅ Summary: Mastery Tips for the Advance Lightness 3
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✔️ Learn each adjustment strap for personalized fit
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✔️ Ground-handle with full gear for launch familiarity
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✔️ Focus on smooth transitions in and out of the speedbag
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✔️ Use core movements for dynamic control
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✔️ Prepare early for precise and confident landings
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✔️ Evolve flight style with advanced control techniques
Core Highlights:
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Compact & Lightweight: Packs small, weighs light—ideal for hike-and-fly or long-distance XC.
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Superior Comfort: Ergonomic seat design with enhanced back support and premium foam.
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Modular System: Includes removable Speedbag and SAS-TEC side protectors.
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Enhanced Safety: Includes certified foam protector + optional side impact protection.
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Aerodynamic Excellence: Sleek profile and drag-reducing silhouette for optimized glide.
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Next-Level Feedback: Crystal-clear wing response for intuitive piloting.
Master the Details – Technical Overview
Weight and Sizing
The Advance Lightness 3 comes in three sizes—S, M, and L—to suit pilots of all body types. Even with full protection and footrest, it remains impressively lightweight:
Size | Pilot Height (cm) | Weight (kg) with protector |
---|---|---|
S | 155–172 | ~2.5 |
M | 170–187 | ~2.75 |
L | 182–200 | ~2.95 |
Protection System
Advance incorporates SAS-TEC side protection in addition to a certified lightweight foam protector. These elements work together to shield vital areas without adding bulk. What’s more, the optional Side Crash Protection sets a new standard in modular safety.
Flight Dynamics and Control
Responsiveness is where the Lightness 3 truly shines. Because the seat geometry maintains constant feedback, you always feel connected to your wing. Additionally, the improved leg support system keeps you locked in without compromising movement. Whether you’re thermalling, gliding, or hitting speed bar, control remains seamless.
Designed Around You – Ergonomics and Comfort
Comfort for the Long Haul
Pilots often underestimate the importance of seated comfort during long XC flights. Advance doesn’t. The Lightness 3 features a new, high-quality seat shell that supports your lower back and hips in all phases of flight. Not only does this reduce fatigue, it encourages longer, more confident journeys.
Customizable Fit
Thanks to multiple adjustment points, you can fine-tune your harness to match your unique body geometry. The speedbag’s adjustable foot stirrup and new cockpit shape further enhance inflight usability.
Efficiency Meets Versatility – Performance Features
Aerodynamics Reimagined
Every line on the Advance Lightness 3 contributes to drag reduction. The cocoon wraps tightly, eliminating loose fabric. Even small design tweaks—like the flap-covered leg straps—shave valuable grams of drag during glide.
Cockpit Integration
Advance includes a fully integrated cockpit with a secure instrument panel, zipped storage, and a power bank sleeve. Whether you’re navigating via GPS, tracking your vario, or recording XC flights, your cockpit works seamlessly.
Packing Made Simple
Compact packing is critical for hike-and-fly. Fortunately, the Advance Lightness 3 collapses into a streamlined rucksack (Advance Compressbag Light) that’s balanced and easy to carry, even over rugged terrain.
Use Guide – Getting Started with the Advance Lightness 3
Step-by-Step Setup
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Unpack & Inspect: Verify all buckles, zippers, and protectors.
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Adjust Fit: Sit in harness, set back angle, speedbag tension, and leg loops.
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Connect Wing: Use the integrated riser safety loops and ensure symmetry.
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Ground Test: Perform preflight posture and emergency checks before flight.
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Launch: Move into takeoff posture smoothly; the harness transitions effortlessly.
In-Flight Tips
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Always keep your body relaxed yet engaged.
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Use your hips for micro-adjustments.
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Maximize use of speedbar during transition glides.
Safety Focus – Fly With Confidence
Advance has gone beyond traditional passive safety. In addition to a lightweight foam protector, the Lightness 3 offers modular side impact SAS-TEC pads. These can be easily removed for weight-conscious missions or reinstalled for turbulence-heavy flights. Additionally, the built-in reserve container is positioned under the seat for optimal deployment dynamics.
Comparison – Lightness 3 vs. Lightness 2
Feature | Lightness 2 | Lightness 3 (New) |
---|---|---|
Side Protection | Not included | Optional SAS-TEC |
Back Comfort | Basic Foam | Ergonomic Shell + Padding |
Aerodynamics | Streamlined | Further optimized |
Speedbag Fit | Standard | Enhanced Shape |
Weight | Slightly heavier | Lighter with same protection |
Storage & Cockpit | Smaller volume | Expanded, more secure |
Clearly, the Advance Lightness 3 is a next-generation upgrade in nearly every aspect.
Ideal for Whom?
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Cross-Country Pilots: Seeking distance, glide, and sustained comfort.
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Hike-and-Fly Enthusiasts: Lightweight build supports effortless ascents.
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Progressive Intermediates: Ready to step into performance harnesses.
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Minimalists: Prefer low-volume gear with modular safety.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does the Lightness 3 include a reserve container?
Yes, the integrated under-seat reserve container is compatible with most round and square parachutes.
2. Can I remove the side protection for lighter weight?
Absolutely. The SAS-TEC pads are modular and optional.
3. Is this harness suitable for beginners?
While not intended as a first harness, confident intermediate pilots will find it forgiving and intuitive.
4. Is the cockpit removable?
No. It’s integrated into the speedbag to maintain aerodynamics and instrument accessibility.
5. What rucksack is included?
Advance includes the Compressbag Light, which perfectly accommodates your folded wing and harness.
Conclusion – Why You Need the Advance Lightness 3
If you’re chasing the horizon, pushing your limits, or refining your flying style, the Advance Lightness 3 is your perfect co-pilot. Every inch has been designed for comfort, control, and freedom. No matter the terrain, no matter the distance—this harness empowers you to soar longer, fly safer, and land with a smile.
paragliders advance Product Highlights for Listings
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✔️ Ultra-Lightweight & Compact – From 2.5 kg with protector
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✔️ Ergonomic Fit – Adaptive support for long XC flights
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✔️ Optional Side Protection – SAS-TEC pads for added safety
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✔️ Responsive Geometry – Clean wing feedback and easy transitions
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✔️ Integrated Cockpit – Easy instrument access with built-in storage
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✔️ Efficient Speedbag – Improved aerodynamics and leg support
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✔️ Ideal for XC & Hike-and-Fly – A dream for weight-conscious pilots
All-embracing comfort Advance Lightness 3
Redesigned suspension and chest strap geometry distinguishes the LIGHTNESS 3 by its excellent comfort in flight – especially when accelerated – and high stability. The seat shell fits every pilot’s body perfectly and protects it where necessary. Dealing with the harness on the ground, e.g. speedbag adjustment, is entirely straightforward.
Modular System
The new options and configuration choices make this third generation of LIGHTNESS modular and flexible as never before. Considering prepared weight alone, the possible variance of the S size (2.75 kg up to 3.37 kg) suggests a large range of use – for example a several day bivouac expedition or, perhaps, a new cross country record.
Useful Details
The LIGHTNESS 3 incorporates a number of important details, including SAS-TEC back protection, ample back pocket, drink pouch holder, optional speedbag access line, relief tube channel, cockpit power cable access and loops for fixing to the chest strap, and easy-to-move setting balls for adjusting the Standard speedbag length.
Protector and SAS- TEC back protection Advance Lightness 3
More protection with each generation: the first LIGHTTNESS onley had comfort foam, then came the LIGHTNESS 2 with a certified foam protector under the seat. Now, the LIGHTNESS 3 has removable visco-elastic SAS- TEC crash protection along the whole back.
Even more comfort Advance Lightness 3
Among no-seatboard light XC harnesses the LIGHTNESS 2 set the standard for comfort. The LIGHTNESS 3 is even better. As a result of reengineered suspension and chest strap geometry this third generation of LIGHTNESS has a perfect balance between harness damping and wing feedback.
Using the optional Windshield
The optional Windshield reduces windchill factor on the pilot and markedly reduces undesirable body cooling. In Transition flight, it also reduces the continuous wind noise level, especially when accelerated. The Windshield therefore significantly reduces pilot tiredness due to persistent noise on very long cross-country flights.advance paragliders
Light Speedbag
For the LIGHTNESS 3 pilots can choose between a Standard and Light speedbag. With the Light speedbag, and the SAS-TEC back component removed, the LIGHTNESS 3 S size weighs only 2.75 kg. the M 2.90 kg and the L 3.15 kg and this with the same comfort as the previous LIGHTNESS 2, but with improved stability in flight.advance paragliders
paragliders advance LIGHTPACK 3 Advance Lightness 3
The LIGHTNESS 3 comes with a LIGHTPACK 3. This is available in two sizes (83 and 91 liters) and is 100 gms lighter than the LIGHTPACK 2. You can choose the sizes as you wish. At a weight of 740 gms, with ergonomic shoulder straps and padded mesh back the LIGHTPACK 3 conforms to the lowest weight/ highest comfort principle.advance paragliders
advance paragliders COMPRESSBAG
The LIGHTNESS 3 comes with a COMPRESSBAG. This replaces the usual glider inner bag and results in a compact rucksack with more spare storage space. It exactly matches the LIGHTPACK 3 measurements and so further improves rucksack carrying comfort.

Weight spectrum from 2.75 kg Advance Lightness 3

TECHNICAL DATA
LIGHTNESS 3 | S | M | L | |
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Pilot height | cm | 155-172 | 165-183 | 178-200 |
Total weight | kg | 3.25 | 3.50 | 3.58 |
Rucksack volume | l | 83 (Option 91) | 83 (Option 91) | 91 (Option 83) |
Load test | EN 1651 / LTF 91/09 / 120kg | EN 1651 / LTF 91/09 / 120kg | EN 1651 / LTF 91/09 / 120kg | |
Harness certification | EN / LTF | EN / LTF | EN / LTF |
MATERIALS
Main straps | Polyester, 25mm, 8kN |
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Shoulder straps | Polyester, 15mm, 13.2kN |
Chest strap | Polyester, 25mm, 8kN |
Safe-T-buckle System | AustriAlpin Alu-Beltbuckle |
Carabiner | Alias, Twist Lock, 23kN, 58gr. |
Rucksack outside | Nylon Oxford 210D PU3, Nylon 240T – Dia Ripstop, Nylon Robic 100D, 122g/m2 g/m2 |
Outer covering | Nylon 40 BE – DE Ripstop, 57 g/m2 |
Download:
Fly Safer with the Advance Lightness 3
Safety has never been an afterthought in Advance products—and the Lightness 3 is no exception. In fact, it introduces a new benchmark for lightweight safety integration by blending certified protection, ergonomic stability, and optional impact enhancements. Whether you’re tackling cross-country flights or hike-and-fly adventures, this harness has your back—literally and figuratively.
Integrated Protection that Works Seamlessly
At the heart of the Advance Lightness 3 is a lightweight, certified foam protector that delivers reliable energy absorption in the event of a hard landing. Even though the entire system stays compact and light, the protection rating meets stringent safety standards for real-world impact scenarios.
Additionally, because Advance understands that side protection matters, the harness includes an optional SAS-TEC crash pad system. These removable, energy-absorbing side pads offer further shielding to your hips and lower rib cage—areas often left exposed in most ultra-light harnesses.
Safety Features You Can Trust
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✔️ Certified Foam Back Protector – Lightweight but highly effective in absorbing vertical impact energy
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✔️ SAS-TEC Side Impact Pads – Modular, high-performance side protection (removable as needed)
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✔️ Integrated Reserve Container – Positioned under the seat for optimized deployment dynamics
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✔️ Stability Geometry – Prevents excessive roll or yaw during turbulence
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✔️ Reinforced Structure – Critical zones use ripstop and high-strength load-bearing materials
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✔️ Clean Speedbag Closure – Prevents entanglements or foot slips during accelerated flight
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✔️ Harness Color Coding – Clear markings simplify correct connection and preflight checks
Emergency Readiness in Real Conditions
Preparedness isn’t just about protection—it’s also about response efficiency. The Advance Lightness 3 comes with an intuitive reserve handle, ergonomically placed for immediate access with either hand. During flight simulations, pilots report clear visibility, quick grip location, and low resistance upon pulling.
Moreover, the under-seat reserve deployment ensures that the parachute exits cleanly even if the pilot is reclined in full cocoon position. This setup has been wind-tunnel and in-flight tested, so you can trust it to work when every second matters.
Pilot Behavior = Safety Multiplier
Even with all these integrated features, true safety is always a shared responsibility. Harness design plays its part—but consistent pilot awareness, discipline, and preflight checks turn technology into a true safety net.
Follow these habits for consistent risk reduction:
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✅ Perform a full gear check before every flight
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✅ Inspect protector and SAS-TEC pads regularly for wear or compression loss
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✅ Rehearse reserve deployment on the ground every few weeks
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✅ Adjust straps properly to prevent slipping or torque during turbulence
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✅ Secure the cockpit and instruments to avoid in-flight distractions
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✅ Use a helmet and radio at all times for emergency communication
paraglider advance Designed for Stability in Motion
Unlike traditional seatboard harnesses that may feel wobbly during turbulence, the Advance Lightness 3 offers a damped, controlled roll response. The streamlined shell supports your torso while keeping feedback crisp. In thermals or transitions, this leads to reduced pilot fatigue and better energy conservation—an often-overlooked safety advantage.
What does this mean in practice?
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You’ll feel fewer abrupt shifts in rough air.
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You’ll maintain a stronger sense of “wing connection.”
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You’ll stay oriented in yaw, even during collapses or asymmetric glides.
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You’ll react faster because your body is more stable and less strained.
paraglider advance Light Doesn’t Mean Vulnerable
A common myth is that lightweight harnesses trade away protection for packability. That may have been true in the past. However, the Advance Lightness 3 redefines that paradigm. Here, you get:
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A fully certified back protector
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Modular, energy-absorbing side pads
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A reliable reserve deployment system
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Durable materials that resist wear-and-tear
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A low-profile design that minimizes snag risk
All without adding unnecessary bulk or compromising performance.paraglider advance
✅ Quick Safety Recap
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✔️ Built-in Certified Back Protection
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✔️ Optional SAS-TEC Side Crash Pads
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✔️ Optimized Reserve Container & Handle
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✔️ Low-Torque Geometry for Turbulent Air
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✔️ Ergonomic Fit Prevents Mid-Flight Fatigue
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✔️ Durable, Load-Tested Build Quality
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✔️ Compact Without Compromise
Final Thoughts: Safety is Built Into Every Thread
With the Advance Lightness 3, you never have to choose between safety and performance. Every element of this harness—visible and hidden—was engineered to protect your body and amplify your awareness. Whether you’re flying high over mountains or skimming coastal ridgelines, you can trust this gear to support your every move.
Want to boost your safety even further? Pair the Lightness 3 with a certified reserve parachute and Advance’s Compressbag Light for optimal gear synergy.
Additional information
Size | Large, Medium, Small |
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WindShield | Withwindshied, without windshield |
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