Towing Accessories - Drogue Chutes

Drogue Chutes are used to provide tension on the towline after the pilot releases to keep the line from falling to the ground, and to allow tension to be applied to the towline to ensure a smoother rewind of the towline. Round drogues are the simplest drag producing device. Typical use involves attaching the drogue chute lines to the end of the towline, with a leader line attached to the apex of the drogue that connects to the pilot through a weaklink. In use, tension on the towline keeps the drogue deflated. Once the pilot releases, the drogue automatically inflates. Our round drogues are the finest available. In brand new yet military surplus condition, these drogues are vented and stabilized. They don't lock out and they allow favourably low line sink rates, and high tension to be applied (up to 200 pounds +) during rewind. Used to stabilize air dropped cargo loads during HALO operations these are now available to paraglider pilots at a fraction of their original cost.

We no longer carry the rectangular drogues as we have determined that they are potentially unsafe when utilized in certain emergency situations. Stuart had the unfortunate experience of the drogue chute tangling with the main canopy after a dramatic overtow situation (that could have been completely avoided had he been bright enough to use a weak link at the time...) resulting in a reserve toss and uneventful landing in the lake below.

Costs

Round drogues sell for $95 / ea. ($ 75 if purchased with a tow system)