Bruce Goldsmith Design’s new Base 3 steps into the EN/LTF‑B class as a true sports‑intermediate: a cross‑country paraglider that promises top‑of‑B performance while keeping the reassuring, low‑B safety feel many progressing pilots are looking for.
Base 3 in a nutshell
Available in five sizes (XS–L) covering a certified weight range from 55 to 125 kg, the BGD Base 3 is aimed squarely at pilots stepping up from low‑B wings who are ready to push their XC distances. It is described as a “feel‑good glider” with excellent glide, strong pitch stability and a very low tendency to surge, making it comfortable in real‑life, active air.
Design highlights and technology
The Base 3 inherits much of its DNA from BGD’s Performance Quest project and the D‑class Diva 2. A high arc, short lines and a tapered planform with raked wing tips give the wing its distinctive silhouette and contribute to both efficiency and stability. With 57 cells, a flat aspect ratio of 5.7 and a flat span ranging from 10.9 m (XS) to 12.7 m (L), the glider stays within classic high‑B geometry while integrating competition‑inspired ideas.
2.5‑liner structure and handling
A modern 2.5‑line layout significantly reduces line drag and gives the Base 3 an almost two‑liner feel, especially when using the rear risers. BGD emphasises the quality of the C‑riser steering: a neoprene “cradle” handle allows precise pitch control without protruding parts that might snag lines. Combined with short lines, this setup enhances pitch stability yet retains enough roll for a fun, lively character.
Reflex profile, CCB and progressive stability
The wing features a reflex profile more commonly seen on paramotor gliders. Lift is concentrated near the leading edge, creating a natural pitch‑up tendency that resists collapses and boosts stability at speed. BGD’s Chord Cut Billow (CCB) technology is used along the leading edge to remove excess fabric, reducing wrinkles and improving the rib profile. Their “Progressive Stability” concept, tuned with Parasim simulations, keeps the centre solid while the tips are softer, encouraging pilots to feel and read the air without being punished by aggressive collapses.
Winglets, tapered tips and safety behaviour
New for BGD on a paraglider of this class are winglets. They are not just cosmetic: they help the glider exit from steep spiral dives and refine spiral behaviour without sacrificing performance. The strongly tapered wing also contributes to very low stall speed and forgiving slow‑speed handling. This combination aims to deliver top‑of‑B efficiency with behaviour that, according to the manufacturer, could almost qualify as low‑B in terms of passive safety.
Construction, materials and durability
BGD chose robust, real‑world cloths rather than ultra‑minimalistic options. The top surface is Porcher Skytex 38 g/m², the bottom surface Porcher Eazyfly 40 g/m², and the internal structure Skytex 40 g/m² with a hard finish. The nose is reinforced with high‑modulus nylon rods, while the risers use 12 mm Kevlar/nylon webbing and quality Riley/Sprenger pulleys. Unsheathed Edelrid Magix Pro Dry 8001U aramid lines (top, middle and lower) provide dimensional stability and a waterproof coating, helping the wing stay in trim over time.
Target pilots and real‑world use
The Base 3 is targeted at XC pilots who have built their foundations on a low‑B and now want more glide and speed without jumping into the more demanding C‑class. Its strong pitch stability eases high‑wind launches and reduces overshooting, while its slow‑speed finesse makes it well suited to top‑landings and tight terrain. The certified package includes the wing, compression strap, riser bag, inner bag, rucksack, repair cloth and small BGD extras.
Get more information and order via Paragliding4.me
To dive into full technical details, certificates, manuals and videos, visit the manufacturer's website. For personalised advice, sizing help and to order your complete Base 3 equipment package, contact Paragliding4.me – your specialist partner for selecting, configuring and delivering the right wing for your flying ambitions.