StraightEdge

I am surprised that not more jumpers use the Vortex II container/harness system. There are about five at my DZ, but I have met jumpers from other DZs who have never heard of it. Too, I have met jumpers who are prejudiced against it because they say it copies the Javelin Odyssey, or that it is made in South Africa. My first container was a Vortex II made to my specifications, and it proved to be a comfortable, durable and good-looking item of gear. I have since obtained a smaller Vortex II that was going for a great price and I love it! This container benefits from sound, TSO'd construction and comes in cheaper than the big names, with a shorter delivery time. Various mods and options are available. A great first container for those who want to buy new and can't afford to order from the market leaders.

For those of you looking for a budget square canopy, look no further. The ZP.EXE from Parachute Systems is a sound buy, especially given the state of the world's economy. I downsized from a Pilot 168 to a ZP.EXE 150. Quite a difference: the Pilot is a more docile canopy with greater glide - a great canopy for the newly-qualified jumper. The ZP.EXE 150 is a cheekier beast, quick and responsive. It does have a rapid descent rate - be aware. The openings are faster than the Pilot, but not fast per se, and clean. The canopy can wobble a bit in turbulence, but there again, so do many canopies. Although the canopy sinks quickly, it does have the ability to get you back from bad spots using brakes and risers. I am sure there are canopies out there that are "better" (and more expensive), but if you're after a non-pretentious square that won't bankrupt you, this is it. I'll keep this for the next few hundred jumps at least.