parkair

I decided to try the Firebolt canopy out after flying many others over a 3-4 year period. Without going into detail, and in no order of downsizing, others were Pilot 188/168ZP/ZPX, Sabre 2 210/190/170, Storm 190/170, Apache 190, Safire 2 209/189/149. None of these fore mentioned canopies really had outstanding characteristics for the 3 areas I was looking for. Openings, flight, and landings. I found the Firebolt to have nice openings without the harsh whiplash of some canopies. Mostly on heading openings except for my occasional messy packing. The slider does take longer to come down than most canopies, which just makes for softer openings. Overall very nice openings and on heading. Flight is great! Snappy and fast responses from toggles and risers. Very 'zippy' canopy, but is quite ground hungry. However, it easy to learn to fly if you are not accustomed to this type of flight. And finally, landings are fun! I wanted a canopy that had the first two characteristics AND loads of flare. Many manufacturers say this and that but don't deliver. The Firebolt has loads of flare for those no wind days. I love the way this canopy blasts in and still lands you softly when others are running or sliding in. An added note, since the Firebolt is a hybrid, it packs up easily and small. It was easy to pack it even when new. Overall this is a great canopy for intermediate and on skydivers. I love this canopy, and only wish it didn't take me so long to get one!