Hi there, I've done about 150 jumps on the heatwave 120 and 350+ on the Hurricane. I've bought full sets of gear from both companies. Openings - Heatwave, in my experience, is much softer on opening. People @ chute shop told me this should not be the case, but my hurricane has always been a little too brisk for my liking. Line twists - Chopped the heatwave once cause of the twisties, but haven't had any issue with the hurricane @ all. Turns - The Hurricane is more sluggish than the Heatwave. To this day I have never flown a canopy of equal size that turned as fast (and boy was it fun) than the heatwave. Recovery arc + swooping - Personally I found the Hurricane a much better canopy for swooping, loaded nicely it has great dive arc, much longer than that of my heatwave, and good flaring power. I found the heatwave had an annoying "pop" at the end of a hook - much like the stilletto's I've flown. Customer Service - Here is why Chute shop will never be a major competitor in the international market (IMHO). The service downright sucks, it's impossible to get anything out the door when promised and often times you need to continuously call and nag. PISA (heatwave) - have been nothing short of spectacular in their service. I've owned not only the heatwave, but a tempo as well. I've found their responses to be prompt and professional. Summary - I prefer the Hurricane, but can't stand dealing with chute shop. If you don't think this is an issue, don't mind faster openings, and want great swoops I'd go with that canopy. If you're looking for a fun canopy to fly and still get decent surfs out of, plus you don't want the headache of poor customer service - I'd go with the Heatwave. Hope this helps. Blue skies. Ian Performance Designs Factory Team
