Swiss manufacturer Advance has once again expanded the horizons of paragliding technology with the introduction of the THETA ULS. Positioned strategically within their prestigious lineup, this new wing defines a completely new category for the brand: the ultra-light mid-B adventure tourer. Drawing heavily from the DNA of the X-Alps champions, the THETA ULS is designed to satisfy the growing demand for equipment that is effortlessly light for hike-and-fly missions yet robust and performant enough for serious cross-country vol-bivouac expeditions. It promises a symbiotic balance of safety and agility, wrapped in the impeccable finish that pilots have come to expect from Advance.
Bridging the Gap: Where Performance Meets Accessibility
The THETA ULS occupies a unique space in the Advance ecosystem, sitting comfortably between the accessible Epsilon DLS and the high-performance Iota DLS. While it carries the EN-B certification, it is engineered for pilots who desire the glide performance closer to a high-B wing but with a passive safety margin and pilot demand closer to a mid-B. This makes it the ideal companion for the "leisure athlete"—pilots who hike up mountains to fly far, requiring a wing that is forgiving in turbulent alpine air without sacrificing the aerodynamic efficiency needed to cross valleys.
Ultra Light Structure (ULS) Technology
The "ULS" suffix stands for Ultra Light Structure, signifying the lightest construction standard currently available from Advance. By utilizing a sophisticated internal structure with reduced diagonal supports and the intelligent use of Nitinol wires, the glider achieves an remarkably low packing volume and weight—starting from just 3.1 kg. The Nitinol rods in the leading edge not only reduce weight but also provide shape memory, ensuring the profile remains aerodynamic even after compact packing.
Smart Material Mix
Durability has not been sacrificed for lightness. Advance employs a hybrid material mix, using Porcher Skytex 27 for the less stressed areas to save grams, while reinforcing the leading edge and high-stress zones with robust Skytex 38 and 40. This ensures that the THETA ULS maintains a long service life, resisting the mechanical abrasion typical of rocky alpine launches.
Flight Characteristics and Handling
In the air, the THETA ULS is characterized by its smooth, cohesive feel. The wing transmits information about the airmass without overwhelming the pilot, filtering out nervous bumps while clearly indicating lift. The handling is direct and precise, allowing for tight coring in small thermals. Furthermore, the pitch stability is exceptional, a trait inherited from the Omega X-Alps development, which translates to a highly efficient glide on bar. The riser system is minimalist yet functional, featuring easy-to-handle soft links or optional light maillons, and an efficient C-handle pitch control system for active flying while accelerating.
Conclusion
With the THETA ULS, Advance successfully targets the modern adventurer. It is a wing that removes the compromise between weight, performance, and safety. For pilots looking to explore the backcountry with a lightweight pack and fly big distances with peace of mind, the THETA ULS represents the pinnacle of current Swiss Paragliding engineering.