Speed Flying Video Tutorials: Essential Techniques for Beginners

Whether you’re new to speed flying or aiming to refine your skills, finding quality video tutorials can significantly improve your understanding and performance in this unique sport.

The best speed flying video tutorials provide step-by-step guidance on essential techniques, safety practices, and the equipment you need to get started confidently.

Learning visually helps you pick up complex maneuvers more quickly and safely.

Having reliable resources is crucial.

Through video instruction, you’ll see how seasoned pilots handle launches, landings, and dynamic turns.

Detailed footage helps you anticipate what to expect and avoid common mistakes, giving you a strong foundation.

For deeper dives and expert-led content, dedicated channels and specialized instruction sites directly address the questions and challenges faced by beginners and advancing pilots.

Key Takeaways

• Video tutorials are vital for building foundational speed flying skills.
• Safety and proper equipment are thoroughly covered in quality tutorials.
• Reliable resources help address common questions and support skill progression.

What Is Speed Flying?

Speed flying is a type of foot-launched aerial sport that uses a special speedwing, blending elements of paragliding and parachuting.

This fast-paced activity requires skill, wind awareness, and the ability to judge proximity to terrain.

History of Speedflying

Speedflying emerged in the 2000s among French mountaineers who wanted a faster, controlled descent down steep snow-covered slopes.

They adapted small, agile paragliders for this purpose.

The sport quickly gained popularity due to its unique combination of speed, excitement, and technical demand.

Early speedflying pilots often modified existing paragliders, but manufacturers soon developed wings specifically designed for the sport.

Today, speedflying is regulated in many regions and features both recreational and competitive events.

For more background, the Wikipedia page on speed flying and speed riding offers a detailed timeline and context.

Differences Between Speedriding and Speed Flying

Both speedriding and speed flying use lightweight, foot-launched gliders, but there are key differences you should know:

• Speed flying is strictly foot-launched on non-snowy terrain, often on grassy hills or mountain slopes.
• Speedriding combines skiing and flight. You use skis to move down snowy slopes, then alternate between gliding in the air and skiing on the ground.

Skill requirements also differ.

Speedriding demands advanced skiing ability, typically comfortable with black diamond runs, because you switch rapidly between flying and skiing.

Speed flying focuses more on foot control, takeoff, and landing on a variety of surfaces.

You can find more precise definitions and even see examples in this Cross Country Magazine article about speed flying and speed riding.

How Speedwings Work

A speedwing is smaller than a traditional paraglider and much more agile.

It is built to handle higher forward speeds—often 30 to 80 km/h—allowing you to descend slopes rapidly while maintaining control and stability.

The design includes:

• Robust, compact canopy: Offers high maneuverability for sharp turns and rapid altitude loss.
• Short lines: Reduce drag and increase handling response.
• Durable materials: Intended for proximity flying near terrain, with reinforced stitching and robust skin.

You launch a speedwing by running downhill or, for speedriding, skiing off a slope.

The wing inflates above your head, providing immediate lift and letting you skim close to the ground.

For more visuals and technical overviews, speed-flying.com has videos showing speedwing launches and flight in detail.

Essential Speed Flying Equipment

Speed flying requires special equipment tailored to rapid descents and tight control.

The right gear directly affects your safety, flight stability, and overall experience during your learning journey.

Choosing the Right Wing

Selecting the appropriate wing is essential for both performance and safety.

The wing—often called a speedwing or speedfly—should match your experience level and the conditions you’ll be flying in.

Beginner pilots should opt for larger surface area wings that provide extra stability and slower speeds.

Advanced flyers may choose smaller, more agile wings for steeper descents and quicker maneuvers.

Be sure to inspect the certified load ratings and manufacturer guidelines for each wing model.

Pay attention to aspect ratio, as high aspect ratio wings trade stability for speed and responsiveness.

Storage and transport are also important—many wings pack down small and light, making them easy to carry to remote launch sites.

If you fly frequently in changing weather, consider a wing designed for variable conditions.

Types of Gliders

There are several glider categories used in speed flying, each with unique flight characteristics.

Mini wings, designed for speed flying and proximity flights, emphasize compact design and quick responses.

Traditional paragliders have larger surfaces and are not recommended for speed flying due to their slower performance profiles.

Hybrid models bridge the gap, providing intermediate characteristics that suit advanced beginners or crossover pilots.

If you ski during your flights in the winter, some gliders are optimized for ground contact and rapid takeoff.

Check if your glider is rated for both foot-launched and ski-launched starts, as some are more versatile than others.

Manufacturers specify design details, such as cell count and line configuration, which influence glide ratio and handling.

Match your glider type with your skill level and intended activity.

Harnesses and Safety Gear

A secure and properly fitted harness is a non-negotiable part of your setup.

Speed flying harnesses are typically lower-profile than standard paragliding harnesses to reduce drag and improve freedom of movement.

Adjustability is key: your harness should allow for quick release in an emergency and offer enough back support for longer flights.

Some models feature lightweight frames, built-in back protection, and integrated reserve parachute compartments.

Safety gear extends beyond the harness.

Always use a certified helmet and consider back protectors, knee pads, and gloves for additional protection.

Many schools, such as those listed at Speed Flying World Class Instruction, require full safety setups during training.

Emergency locator beacons and radios help you stay connected during remote or solo flights.

Prioritize equipment that enhances visibility and enables quick emergency communication.

Understanding Speedfly Gear Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps ensure your gear remains reliable and airworthy.

Always inspect the fabric of your wing for rips or weakened areas before each flight.

Check the lines for fraying or tangling, and keep all connections free of dirt and grit.

Cleaning your speedwing involves gentle brushing and avoiding harsh chemicals.

Store it dry, away from sunlight, and in a cool environment to prevent UV and moisture damage.

Pay close attention to metal parts on both the glider and harness—corrosion can undermine safety.

Your harness should be checked for stitching integrity and buckle function.

Test your reserve parachute deployment periodically, even if you haven’t used it in an emergency.

A regular, thorough check of all your equipment, as recommended by professionals at Raven Wolf Sky Sports, extends its lifespan and reduces risk during flight.

Keep an updated log of inspections to stay organized and proactive.

Beginner Skills and Safety Fundamentals

Mastering foundational techniques in speed flying reduces risk and increases confidence.

Training from a qualified paragliding school is highly recommended to build safe habits, become familiar with essential skills, and learn to handle real-world conditions.

Ground Handling Techniques

Ground handling is the starting point for every speedflying student.

You’ll focus on precise control of your wing while staying on the ground, enabling safer launches and landings.

Use both forward and reverse launch methods when practicing, and learn to react quickly to changes in wing position.

Key skills include:

• Keeping the wing overhead and stable using brake toggles and risers.
• Managing asymmetric surges or collapses by shifting weight or applying brake input.
• Untwisting lines and resetting the wing when things go wrong.

Daily practice under varying wind speeds will help you build muscle memory.

Reliable ground handling reduces the chance of accidents during flight, especially in strong or gusty conditions.

Launching and Landing Basics

Launching and landing smoothly is vital in speed flying, especially as terrain and wind can vary with every attempt.

You should always inspect equipment before takeoff—check harness buckles, lines, and canopy for wear.

Start with gentle slopes to practice your forward launches.

Focus on running with commitment, maintaining wing symmetry, and keeping calm under pressure.

An instructor at a paragliding school can give you immediate feedback that helps spot bad habits early.

For landings:

• Flare using the brakes only at the correct altitude, no higher or lower.
• Stay alert for ground speed and obstacles.
• Use a staged approach—set up into the wind, judge your descent, then finish with a clean flare.

Assessing Weather and Terrain

Weather and terrain assessment is one of the most important skills for safe speed flying.

You’ll need to interpret wind direction, strength, and potential turbulence.

Use windsocks, terrain clues, and local knowledge from instructors or more experienced pilots.

Checklist for safe conditions:

• Wind: Light to moderate, not gusty or switching direction.
• Terrain: Wide, open areas free from trees, power lines, or sharp rocks.
• Visibility: Clear views of your entire route and landing area.

Avoid flying in thermic midday conditions or strong winds unless you have advanced experience.

Consistent evaluation of both weather and terrain, reinforced in formal training like flight training courses, helps you make safe decisions every time you fly.

Intermediate and Advanced Speed Flying Tutorials

Intermediate and advanced speedflying focuses on precise control, more complex maneuvers, and effective risk management.

These skills require a solid foundation and should only be attempted with guidance or after mastering the basics.

Dynamic Maneuvers for Speedflying

Dynamic maneuvers introduce you to rapid altitude changes and agile turning with a speedwing.

You will practice techniques like spiral dives, energy management, and using rear-riser or B/C-connection controls for sharper, more responsive flight.

Controlled descent and fast transitions between lines demand accurate input and fast reflexes.

Practicing with guidance speeds your learning and reduces mistakes.

These maneuvers are often taught through step-by-step video tutorials—ideally those led by experienced instructors.

Key skills for dynamic maneuvers:

• Energy conservation and modulation
• Reading terrain changes
• Timed input for roll and yaw

Barrel Rolls and Advanced Techniques

Barrel rolls and other advanced moves take your speedflying to a higher level.

Barrel rolls require coordinated control of both hands, precise weight shifting, and exact timing to keep the wing stable through the maneuver.

Advanced techniques also include proximity flying and toss-launches, which depend on expert wing handling and full situational awareness.

Detailed walkthroughs in specialized tutorials offer techniques for entry, execution, and recovery, helping you expand your skill set safely.

Practice guidelines:

• Only attempt after mastering intermediate controls
• Use a safe altitude and wide-open terrain
• Review each step in slow motion videos for clarity

Progressing Your Skills Safely

As you move into more advanced moves, your focus should shift to risk management and safety protocols.

Regular practice under coaching, such as ongoing lessons from recognized schools, will help you avoid common errors.

Wear the correct protective equipment at all times.

Track weather conditions and always fly within your limits.

Use targeted skill-building sessions to improve incrementally, rather than rushing into complex techniques without preparation.

Safety checklist:

• Maintain regular wing inspections
• Review emergency recovery maneuvers
• Stay current with instructional updates and local regulations

Recording and Sharing Your Speed Flying Videos

Capturing your speed flying sessions requires the right combination of equipment, good camera angles, and thoughtful editing.

Setting up your camera well and knowing a few editing basics will help you create videos that are both exciting and easy to share.

Camera Setup and Mounting Tips

Action cameras, such as GoPro or DJI models, are most commonly used for speed flying due to their durability, image stabilization, and size. Attach your camera securely to your helmet, chest, or wing with dedicated mounts.

This ensures you capture multiple perspectives, such as first-person and wing shots. Use mounts with safety tethers to prevent camera loss during high-speed movements.

Avoid zooming in while recording, as it reduces video quality and narrows your field of view—use wide-angle settings instead. When possible, set your camera to 60 fps or higher, which results in smoother footage, especially important in fast sports like speedfly.

Before every flight, check that mounts are tight and the lens is clean. Bring spare batteries or power banks, since action cameras drain quickly in cold and windy conditions.

For more camera tips, see these flying video recording methods.

Editing Your Speed Flying Footage

Import your footage into editing software such as DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere, or free options like Shotcut. Trim out slow or repetitive moments to maintain viewer interest.

Use short clips interspersed with a mix of first-person and external angles for dynamic storytelling. Add overlays like flight data, route maps, or simple on-screen stats when relevant.

Basic color correction and image stabilization can enhance the look of your speed flying footage. Avoid heavy transition effects—smooth cuts and a clear sequence will make your videos easier to follow.

For sharing, export your video in HD or 4K. Consider uploading to platforms like YouTube or Vimeo for wider reach.

If you want examples or inspiration, check out these speed flying videos on Vimeo or watch a speedflying compilation to see popular editing styles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Learning speed flying requires an understanding of safe practices, proper equipment, and instructional resources tailored for beginners.

What are the best practices for beginners starting out with speed flying?

You should begin with supervised training and build a foundation of basic skills under guidance. Start with larger mini-wings, which offer more stability and slower speeds suitable for new pilots.

Ensure you have the required physical fitness and pay attention to weather conditions before any flight.

Where can I find high-quality speed flying instructional videos?

Comprehensive speed flying lessons and tutorials are available on reputable channels like ProSpeedflying and SpeedFly. These channels frequently update content and are recognized in the speed flying community.

What equipment do I need to safely engage in speed flying?

Essential gear includes a properly sized speed wing, harness, helmet, and reserve parachute. Beginners often start with wings between 14 and 18 square meters, customized for body weight and athletic ability, as detailed by Speedfly.com.

Sturdy footwear and protective clothing are also important for ground handling and takeoff.

Can you recommend any step-by-step speed flying video guides for new pilots?

You can follow series on ProSpeedflying’s YouTube page where pilots break down launches, handling basics, and landings in order. These guides introduce foundational maneuvers in manageable segments for those with little or no prior experience.

How do I progress my speed flying skills through video tutorials?

Revisit core techniques and gradually increase complexity by practicing advanced maneuvers as explained by verified instructors in their videos. It’s important to match the pace of your learning to your comfort and ability, pausing videos to take notes or practice drills before advancing further.

What are the safety precautions one should take when learning speed flying from videos?

Always combine video learning with in-person instruction before attempting solo flights. Carefully review safety checklists and protocols.

Never fly in unsuitable weather. Confirm that all tutorials follow recognized standards to avoid misinformation.