The NOVA FERUS is a lightweight Paragliding rucksack designed for pilots who treat every ascent as part of the adventure. Available in 80 and 105 litre versions, it combines trekking‑pack comfort with paragliding‑specific details, making it ideal for hike & fly races, vol biv expeditions and everyday use on the hill.
H2: Trekking‑level comfort in a light pack
Despite its low weight (approx. 760 g for 80 l and 820 g for 105 l), the FERUS behaves like a full‑blown trekking backpack. A rigid hip belt transfers the load efficiently to the hips, while the paraglider itself is used to “stiffen” the pack when properly arranged. When the rucksack is filled from bottom to top and the six‑point compression system is tensioned, the load sits close to the back and remains stable even on steep, technical approaches.
H3: Smart access and durable materials
NOVA builds the FERUS from robust nylon with mesh outer pockets and a reinforced lower area to protect against sharp‑edged objects. Practical front access ensures that snacks, gloves or a windproof can be reached without taking the pack off. The pack is engineered to survive repeated use in rocky mountain terrain, from pre‑dawn hike & fly missions to extended vol biv tours.
H3: Two sizes, one clear logic
To match different equipment volumes, NOVA offers the FERUS in 80 and 105 litres. The 80‑litre version is recommended for light wings up to about size M, lighter pod harnesses and minimalist setups, while the 105‑litre pack provides extra space for larger gliders, heavier harnesses and bivouac gear. Both versions are compatible with the NOVA ITUS harness and can be used as a reversible backpack when combined correctly.
H2: Organisation for modern adventure pilots
The FERUS layout is clearly aimed at pilots who travel far on foot. Ergonomic shoulder straps feature a Velcro area for attaching a smartphone or GPS tracker, while the lid compartment includes a small carabiner for keys and an internal valuables pocket. A hydration system can be fixed inside the main compartment with a dedicated strap, complete with a hose outlet, so pilots can drink without stopping.
H3: Space for everything that matters
Trekking poles have their own outer pocket; if the helmet doesn’t fit inside, it can be attached with a supplied helmet net on the top of the pack. The larger 105‑litre version offers two mesh pockets on the hip belt (the 80‑litre has one), ideal for muesli bars, cash, sun cream or spare batteries. The result is a rucksack where every item has its place – and remains accessible when you need it most.
H2: Real‑world validation and use cases
Feedback from experienced pilots underlines the FERUS concept. NOVA Pilots Team captain Till Gottbrath, with decades in the outdoor industry, compares the load transfer and comfort directly to a “real” trekking pack – provided it is packed correctly. This makes the FERUS particularly attractive to pilots who combine demanding alpine ascents with long cross‑country flights, as well as those who need a single, reliable pack for training days and travel.
H3: Who is the FERUS for?
The FERUS is aimed at ambitious hike & fly and vol biv pilots, but also suits recreational flyers who want a lightweight, well‑organised rucksack without sacrificing comfort. It will appeal to anyone who dislikes compromise between carrying performance and minimal weight – especially those already flying or considering NOVA’s lightweight wings and the ITUS harness.
H2: Find out more and order
For full technical details, recommended pack sizes and video tutorials on how to combine the FERUS with the ITUS harness, visit the manufacturer's website. To configure the optimal size and order your equipment package, including the FERUS backpack, contact Paragliding4.me, where gear selection is tailored to your flying style and mountain objectives.