An Honest Review on Paramotoring

[@WoodysGamertag]

One thing I think prospective pilots often need to hear is the weather availability window. You touched on it with winter but there is more to know. Before flying, I thought the weather window was similar to skateboarding. With skating, if it's warm and not raining, we're good to go. Instead, it's more like surfing. You develop relevant weather expertise, you watch the good weather windows approach, and you modify your schedule so that you can get out there on the best days. Sometimes, you'll get five chances to fly a week, sometimes it's one.

[@therealandrewlund]

And depending on where you live, maybe it's once a month...

[@JohnnyFaber]

You still flying Woody? Blue skys to you sir. You were one of the people who inspired me to get into this sport. I am loving it!

[@SuperCymru]

I also do towed sports behind my boat - one thing for sure I know the temperature, wind direction & strength ... its part of my life.

[@CMSgtSanders]

Lol I only 1 a month with my plane 😆

[@clippedwing-bensmith1614]

All very good points. Let me offer some of my thoughts and advice. With your first flight, expect the unexpected. Not in a bad way but expect your first flight to be completely different than you expect. I was very nervous for mine. I blew 3 launches because of how nervous I was. In flight I was comfortable and it was peaceful. I didn't expect that. I had jaw ache because I couldn't stop smiling. I was however still scared but not to the point of it being debilitating. I'm glad I had good company that pushed me a healthy amount. When training, watch others, but never compare yourself. Everyone absorbs new information and stimulus differently. You might not quite get things as quickly, you might also be better than others, be humble and respect your own learning journey. Find a honest person to train you. If you don't get on with that person that's fine. Find another. The cost of training can sway you. You will soon tell if an instructor is expensive because he knows his/her worth, or because your getting ripped off. The flying community is very good at picking out the bad apples. Do your homework. I belive that if your instructor can't offer you a introduction tandem flight, he can't offer you that same commitment to your welbing over a radio. Listen to the quiet guy giving out advice and guidance. In my experience, the loud mouth on the airfield is only promoting his/her ego and doesn't have your safety as a priority. Aviation doesn't care how cool you are, how many subscribers you have on KZbin, likes on Instagram or how many people in the business you know. If you can't respect that, it will kill you without a flinch or remorse. I have personally lost a few friends. Its very rare as it is a safe sport. Accept that risk the same as you accept that risk driving to work. Did it affect me? Yes, but I still continue to fly. Costs are high. Its aviation, it will get cheaper but its still a small amount of people enjoying the sport. If you can't afford it, save. Nothing is free. If you can't give up a few beers, or that weekend treat, you will never have discipline to succeed in this sport. There is no shortcuts to success, only dedication and sacrifice. Your body isn't designed to fly, your just borrowing air time. Always remember that landings are guaranteed. If your flying over some risky landscapes and you have an engine out, gravity will always win. Just because you have driven an hour to a flying spot, always remember you don't have to fly and it might not be suitable. It's your choice. Frustrating yes, but paragliding pilots do it all the time and fly another day. Surround yourself early with pilots that promote safety. Call out people that fly too risky around you. If they can't take criticism, don't fly with them. Likewise, if your given some criticism, listen and respect that view. If you do some flying, and it's not for you. It's not for you. No one will think badly of you. Only you know how you feel about it. No one will think differently if you fly with wheels. Be realistic on your fitness levels. Learn some meteorology early. You are in mother nature's arena, it will reduce your frustrations tenfold and keep you safe. Running costs are low, but never zero. Put some pennies aside. In a nutshell, the sport is the perfect way to enjoy the sky. Its cheap in aviation terms and you can get out of the sport of what you want to get out of it. It's safe, but will bite you if you don't respect it. The community is hugely positive, but some people will try to compare your equipment and belittle you. Comparing dick sizes is prominent in every sport or hobby. It's frustrating not being able to fly, and it's frustrating when your engine won't start for you. Some of my comments are a little controversial, but I'm more than happy to change my views. This is some advice I wish I was give when I started. 😊

[@DougBow96]

Agreed!

[@outandupthere]

With you on all of that :)

[@HeliPilotPaul]

Spot on, you get out of the sport what you invest into it (time, attitude, education, fitness, money...etc)

[@ab687]

If you are flying, go to the bathroom first. In the sky there aren’t toilets.

[@zazsereb1499]

@@ab687 haha!

[@bstang93]

I have my private pilots license, and to go down to my local airport to rent a C172 for an hour is $135... It's so much more enjoyable and cheaper to fly a paramotor for an hour. The only withdrawal is that you can travel farther with an airplane than a paramotor. Great informative video Anthony!

[@KyleJPilot]

I’m with you! I’d love to get checked out to rent a plane, but just not interested in the cost right now. PPG is too easy!

[@bstang93]

@@KyleJPilot It's definitely worth getting your pp license to have in your back pocket but it's not always so affordable. Also getting your pp license helps you appreciate and see the rules that fixed wing pilots have to abide by. It helps you be respectful of the standards that pilots have to abide by so you're not stepping on any toes while buzzing around your local airport. :)

[@KyleJPilot]

@@bstang93 I'm Commercial/IFR in both Helicopters and F/W. I added PPG last year for fun!! I just don't want to spend the money to rent right now since PPG is so cheap! ;) I got my PPL in 2000 and was paying $55/hr. for both airplane AND instruction! Nowadays, it's impossible to find just the plane for less than $100+++ and instruction is $50+ in some places!

[@KyleJPilot]

@@bstang93 Also, the local airport requires I have at least $30K of my own additional insurance!! In my experience, that's what the hourly rental fees are for, so I'm a bit put off by the fact that I have to have additional insurance to rent. Just my 2 cents!

[@AnthonyVella]

Great comment! Thank you for taking the time to write it. I agree! $135 is expensive for an hour. Paramotors are a fantastic comprise that will give us affordable fun and passion for the rest of our lives! ...just wish I could find a way to fly comfortably during the winter.

[@DanielJonesParamotor]

The video came across really well mate, people will appreciate the honesty. When anyone asks me 'isn't it expensive?' I answer with 'Yes, but looking back I would make the same decision to buy again and again and again. Paramotoring has changed my life.'

[@AnthonyVella]

Great point! It’s worth it. 💯 Even after this video, I’ve had a few mishaps and I’m still insanely passionate about flying these funky things. We must be crazy. 😂

[@freedomseeds8194]

Well, I dove head first into skydiving and loved it... It looks like I found my new favorite thing.

[@cbrownohio]

Great video, Anthony. As "eh-hem" older pilots in our 50's...my wife and I are thankful for wheels. They open the sport in an entirely new way to older adults who have the money, but no longer the physicality needed for enjoyment and success. You really captured the emotional aspects of learning to fly paramotors: wonderful, exhilarating, life-changing, yes. But you also addressed the true hurdles of cost, fears, hard work and realities of the sport. Well done.

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you for commenting this, Chris. A big part of me looks forward to flying trikes one day. Hope to have the funds available to cross that bridge when that day comes. I’ll start saving.

[@scottphillips6847]

Hey, Chris. I'm also north of my 50's and while I'm not an athlete, I can handle most physical challenges. That being said, I have considered the condition of my knees and feel I may be on the wheeled route for this sport. Tell me your experience with transporting your trike (or quad, if that's what you use) and about the ease of locating a suitable takeoff, landing and flying area. Your experience will help me know how I should proceed.

[@cbrownohio]

@@scottphillips6847 Hi Scott...be glad to share. I'm 58 and my wife is 57. I had two knee surgeries before training on my left knee and this proved more of a challenge than I anticipated with soreness and mobility. For both of us, we underestimated the physical stamina required during training. We had kited a lot before training and did fine, but training to foot launch is different. We had heard the qualifying question before training, "Can you run the length of a football field with 60 pounds on your back?" "Well, yes," we honestly answered. And truthfully we can. ONCE. The reality of training is that we needed to do that multiple times a day for days at a time. And the answer to that was, "um, no...we really struggle to do that." Personally, I also underestimated my balance and reaction time. I'm just not 30 anymore and my body doesn't do what I want in the same ways. I envy the 30-year olds greatly in that regard. Now, truthfully, your mileage may vary and perhaps you would have a very different experience. So...our instructor moved us to trike and we are very grateful. We purchased gear that came with Trike capabilities: Pap frames, Vitorrazi engines (Atom 80 for my wife and 185 for me) and the PAP mini-rolling trikes. Easy to connect and set-up and break down. They basically fit in a large duffle bag. We transport both sets of gear including wings, trikes and engines/frames in our Ford Edge. It's tight be we get it done with our attached carrier on the back. (Note: we're seriously thinking of getting a small trailer and probably will soon just for easier transport.) Finally, our experience flying trikes are as follows: 1. Yes, trikes do limit our locations somewhat. We need smooth ground, because our wheels are small and thin. Our light trikes make for a "similar to foot launch" flying experience, but the smaller size wheels are a factor when choosing an LZ. Depending on your wheel size, you may be able to select a less manicured terrain. (Bigger is better in that regard.) 2. Our trikes have not been a let down. It actually sets us free to focus more on flying and less on potential falls and equipment damage subsequently. 3. I believe that by starting on wheels and learning the aspects of flying, we could one day learn to foot launch if we choose and the conditions are favorable. (Light winds to assist, etc.) Or, we can always pull out the trikes! We love the option. And, my wife has no desire to foot launch so she's good to go. Bottom line: We love flying PPG, and it is an incredible, life-changing experience for us. We are grateful the sport has such great equipment that allows us, at our age, to enjoy the adventure! If this is your dream, I encourage you to go for it. I would urge anyone to select a reputable instructor and get proper training. I hope this is helpful. Reach out anytime.

[@clerissonmesquita]

Thank you so much for your invaluable information, highly appreciate it, have a great day, keep it up the outstanding job.

[@larrydelceg2406]

Leg pain? I'm 63 and in good physical shape. No knee or back issues, enjoy hiking/jogging, etc. And I've been planning on getting training and jumping into the sport. But your comment about leg pain makes me take pause! I've been blessed to be in good health and I really enjoy being active without issues. I've been fairly obsessively dreaming about paramotoring for quite some time, but if I go for it, will that be inviting long-term leg pain issues? BTW, THANK YOU for the awesome Paramotor Podcast! I've listened to every episode - some multiple times!

[@rodrygojose]

I already knew I wanna try this. But your video makes me think I can't live without trying this

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

I can't believe my footage is in this video. Thank you Anthony. It was such a cold flight.

[@LeandraKVella]

your clip was beautifuuuuuul 🤩

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@LeandraKVella its the only flight in 27 years that's been over snow.

[@chamales3]

A few of my clips were in there too. The what not to do part.

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@chamales3 they should have been, the instructor demos what not to do. Then you look more of a hero. 😉

[@AnthonyVella]

@clint Chamales you’re clip was AWESOME! But scary as shit! 😆

[@jacquesnuttall]

Hey mate, best video to date, ok no they all good. Booked my training today so see you in the air soon. Wait Australia is a bit of a paramotor trip from you. Well I will need to make a plan to come visit then. Greetings from Oz!!! 🌏🇦🇺🦘

[@10661956]

Anthony, excellent advice! Thank you for your videos! I'm almost 65....learned to fly 2 years ago and foot launch.....much of the time on asphalt. I feel SO fortunate to be able to do this...... it is the greatest sport Ever! This PPG "disease" is life changing for sure! 🤣👍

[@thomasnappo6309]

Yes my friend,,,running in tall grass can hinder speed for a good launch....asphalt sounds better...

[@BryanPearsonParamotor]

The best part about Anthony, he says he’s about 30 years old, but doesn’t look a day over 50. Double thumbs up 👍👍

[@AnthonyVella]

BWAHAHAHA. I’m old af.

[@chamales3]

You should see him without the makeup and fancy lighting.

[@David65702]

You should see him in a dress lol.

[@Lumineer_Cars]

@@David65702 no,you don't thats creepy How about you see him in person with a atom 80

[@michaelkennedy2528]

@@chamales3 I heard it was like Hillary Clinton with a beard. lol

[@makotanko2994]

Awesome video. Maybe you can head up a new training program for Resurgence PPG in Texas? Not only do training for veterans but the general public as well!

[@GregAnthonyHarris]

The Scooter and Leandra Cutaways made me spit tea all over myself! 😂👏 This video is superb! Really nice work bro!

[@AnthonyVella]

🤣😂🤣 I’m glad you liked them. I knew you’d appreciate the humor in doing the cutaways. I appreciate your support. ❤️

[@albynospyder4120]

Thumbs up 👍. I would absolutely love a video about instructors. I say go for it.

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you for commenting. 🙂 What are you looking for in an instructor? Ie safety, strict, reputation based by size?

[@tomgillotti]

Excellent video, Anthony! This is what a lot of people need to see/hear.

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you, Tom! Hopefully it helps someone.

[@ejectkid26027]

Wintertime flying, 30⁰ or below. This is definitely a seasonal sport for me up here in ND. It was -25⁰ without windchill lol. Great video!

[@ryandinan]

Awesome video Anthony! After watching this, I want to be flying right now, but it's 9ºF outside here in Missouri :( I hope Leandra finds the courage to get back into the air!

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you, Ryan. I hope so as well. If she decides not to, I’ll by a tandem trike. Thankfully, Spring is just around the corner.

[@onursanli00]

Its interesting to see James deen to talk about paramotors

[@robertdepaulis5188]

All of the comments have given great advice on top off what you have stated . For me I learned to fly Aerochute trike almost 20 years ago . Ended up giving it up 3 years later when I got married. Simply could not take it up enough to justify the cost . We actually had to get a licence to fly and get a refresher every year . Absolutely loved my first solo . Was not expecting it , came to training and my instructor told me ‘ Go take it up solo ‘ straight up . Scary but exciting at the same time , took it 5000 feet done a few circuits then a few low level circuits then down for a perfect landing . Best feeling ever . One thing I will say if you are thinking off taking flying up . You don’t only need to take the price off taking it up . You need to think off the eventual replacement cost off the wing , which is a must and is not cheap ! They only last for so many hours and the longer you leave it the sun the quicker it degrades . Take care off your equipment and truly enjoy being the one off the few who truly are gifted with flight . NOTHING LOWER THAN A GROUNDED PILOT

[@joshmedina5471]

I wanted to do it 15 years ago, but now that I’m 34, I finally pulled the trigger! Still in training, but certainly much more time and effort then I even expected! Well worth it though!!!

[@AnthonyVella]

Congrats Josh! Where are you doing your training at?

[@joshmedina5471]

@@AnthonyVella In Colorado, Fly Colorado PPG Daniel West

[@AbeDillon]

A few years ago, I was interviewing for one of my dream jobs. The catch was that the job required me to move to the SF bay area. I searched everywhere for affordable housing within less than an hour commute, but the best I could find was a run-down shack on some beautiful forested land. The winding rural roads made the commute pretty brutal, but if I could fly it would be in the 15-20 min ball park. Unfortunately, I didn't end up getting the job, but after COVID, I started considering living and working remotely from different countries where similar problems crept up. I want to fly like Naussicaä of the Valley of the Wind! I don't know of anyone who actually uses paramotoring as a practical form of transport, so I'm sure there are many reasons why it's not a good idea. I don't know how one would launch in a forested area short of some insane human cannonball contraption, even then: how would they land? I'm also sure there are lots of flight restrictions that make it a no-go. I wonder if there are other considerations I'm not privy to.

[@tonyducks1121]

This video was a thorough and honest assessment of venturing into paramotor. Answered every question I had. Thanks Anthony.

[@AnthonyVella]

I appreciate it! I wrote the script one night while considering all of the things that I would have liked to have known, even though I didn’t know I’d want to know those things when I was looking to get into paramotoring. I’m pretty proud of how the video turned out and it is all still beneficial information. Meaning, my thoughts haven’t changed since making it.

[@jbow1488]

Great video!! So much to take in. I didn't even think of Restricted Air Space. Just watching u fly around gravel piles was exciting. I'm hoping to do more research on instructors here in Michigan. Thanks very much! 👍

[@AnudeepAD]

Seriously, bro, I saw your video like I am talking to my friend. I like your efforts to make the video interesting by adding those tiny details. I really enjoyed it.

[@kevincollins8014]

Pretty cool and very informative video thanks for sharing it.

[@fredlamy7326]

You 're right it's expensive if you buy everything, that's why I build my own paramotor ....I have about 20 hours of fly with it and it' s amazing to fly with your own and personally engine...Sorry for my english I am a french flyer!!!!

[@Ellwoodsss1]

Btw outstanding video as always and really great things to consider for someone in the tirekicking phase. I will add that the time commitment and flexibility is often not discussed i.e. dropping everything to go fly

[@Phoenix-One0922]

After so many videos and all the 'hype' that flyers post on YT, I've got to say that I've found your video and advice very new & refreshing. So many other importants points to cover but, I feel your channel and this, my first view of your experience is a great way to start into my adventures as a new paraglider. You've won my subscription fair and square. Blessings to your awesome family.

[@drewwiard5581]

I FINALLY made into an Anthony video! I have ARRIVED!!!🤙🏼 GREAT VIDEO!

[@AnthonyVella]

It was about time! You’re like a friend of mine. I always want to throw in footage with/of friends. Btw, the n64 is mint! I’ll send her back next week. Thanks again man. It’s super appreciated!

[@TheFaab1]

These must be some of the highest quality paramotor videos I've seen in a while! Keep it up!

[@pjbrewer56]

Good job Anthony! Great explanations! Oh, and NICE video production.

[@parabollox-darrel]

Nice vid. I think you nailed the most important points for someone considering the sport. Thanks Anthony.

[@averycolburn]

Well said. I just got a wing to start kiting, looking forward to more videos, especially “common mistakes” ones!

[@freshnelly]

Wow, you're in for a fun time. Kite as much as you can, it's super important to not have to think when controlling a glider, it gets intuitive after 30 or so hours

[@MalcolmSmith-jw6pn]

This video has made extremely consider the thought of getting into paramotoring. Thank you so much for this video.

[@AnthonyVella]

@@MalcolmSmith-jw6pn I’m happy to hear that. Make every flying decision with safety in mind and you should have a long life with incredible flights ahead of you.

[@gargod33]

I have a training course booked for next month. This video was very helpful.

[@KyleJPilot]

Have a great time!!! It’s amazing!

[@danielstevenson1250]

I was just going to watch a video,guess I’ll go get someone to train me.

[@mysterjd34]

Great video, and I don't own a paramotor yet.. but I already feel like I gotta disagree on the price part. If you simply want to get into the sky, leave the ground like a bird and FLY, think about the costs of the alternate paths of getting there. I'm in private pilot school and the costs are astronomical compared to paramotoring, I mean when you include the aircraft costs. Good luck finding a decent airplane for under 60k, then factor in 20-30k for your training, then more and more for maintenance, annuals, rebuilds, etc. Meanwhile I can find an entire paramotor package, everything needed to fly (except the gas) for under $11k. That is a GOOD VALUE.

[@johnjones-hy4un]

he knows what he is talking about,glad i watched it really woke me up.thanks for your video.well made abd a smart approach thank you

[@Davidanz]

in Italy, you can buy a 1 year used paramotor for 2500€....and brand new it's 3500-3800€....it's incredible that in USA a brand new paramotor costs more than 8000$ When I started 4 years Ago: 1 year and 1 half used paramotor (Air Italy Frame with Sky 110s Engine with 6 months warranty remained) - 2500€ 98 hours used Glider (Windtech Honey Paramotor Wing) 1500€, included a basic helmet from decathlon modified with headphones from Loescher so 4000€ and all equipment were done.

[@deshyvin]

Would it be possible to have this kind of thing shipped to usa? Or would that negate the cost saving

[@Davidanz]

@@deshyvin google "AirItaly Paramotor" and contact them :)

[@ranjayksingh]

nice message, i am stuck in one of those areas where getting permission to fly is difficult. seems like begging, even public funded airport says NO, and I need to sneak on evenings or early mornings to fly. it has slowed down my learning drastically.

[@fwkb2]

Love it! I hope you do go ahead with a video about instructors around the country. Seems kinda sparse up here in the Northeast (Maine) but maybe I'm just not aware of what's around? I am undecided about whether to go local or travel. I would love to go local but the people I have found teaching around here have some serious backlogs.

[@mikesmith6173]

Great video! Thanks

[@muddyudders]

Great info! My spring chicken days are long past. My back is torched but I'm going to give it a shot. I've never been the wish I would've type. Congratulations on the marriage by the way.

[@LeandraKVella]

thank you, @muddyudders! 😊

[@jonathandevries2828]

Sorry Tony i subscribed already! Looking forward to your video on training locations near sw virginia

[@torqdoff]

Awesome video Anthony 👍. I’m still working on getting gear but videos like yours and the Paramotor Podcast keeps me motivated to keep saving every penny that I can so I can be back up in the air ASAP. Thanks for all the hard work you do and I totally appreciate your creativity. Cheers bro 😎

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Huh, the landscape at 13:00 reminds me a lot of that landscape where Dell Schenze was harassing a poor owl... Thanks for this excellent overview!

[@grejen711]

I'll be 59 in a couple months and I footlaunch. The knees are definitely aging by so far I'm good and land without pain. Certainly not sharp pains. You should have a Dr. check that out for you. There may be some physio you can do to mitigate the accumulation of damage. You might even need to switch to wheels so you know you'll still be walking in 20 years!

[@VARocketry]

67 yo old PG and PPG pilot who recently injured left knee on hard landings at an away mountain site. XRAY & MRI revealed torn meniscus and advanced cartilage wear that may impact ability to withstand future landings.

[@samigriffin8103]

I like your enthusiasm. I was driving south on hwy75 in Oklahoma, and when I reached a fair size town right before my ultimate destination, something caught my eye and I looked up. That was the first time I saw a paratrike in action. I was totally floored. I'm thinking, 'I totally want to do that!' I've been obsessed ever since. I'm a bit over the hill, so I'm thinking paratrike would be a better option for me. I also like the option of a more rigid wing. My main problem is this; I've always had a fear of flying, but I don't have a fear of heights. My best dreams are when I just take off flying, like a bird. So I love that sense of freedom, and I think it's just fear of not being in control, like in a commercial aircraft. Looking at these videos, like yours, I feel more exhilarated than scared, although the part about respecting the sport I totally get. I would actually feel safer in a machine that I was in control of, and boy! I can't wait to get started. I need to get some money together, I hope before I get too old to do this. I wish, for the first time in my life, that I was younger! Thank you for the video. Great job!

[@telbon8869]

Great video on honest review of paramotoring. Your presentation style, enthusiasm and obvious love of paramotor flying is infectious, although I don't need much encouragement since I've dreamed of doing this for years. I look forward to seeing your other videos. You really seem like a happy young man, and why wouldn't you be , with your love of flying and a beautiful wife to share your life with! Enjoy your life, treasure every happy moment for it goes by so fast. Best wishes!

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you very much for the kind words.

[@johnshurts]

An alternative to a tandem flight as a "first" flight is to find a school that offers cable tows as a training aid - you get to fly the wing without the motor in a controlled situation, usually in radio contact with the instructor. You can master the landing flare, a bit of air maneuvering and the sensations associated with flight - all a big plus.

[@Teckno77]

As a motorcyclist I imagine Paramotors are the bikes of the sky and I'd love to try it. Money holds me back but one day hopefully 😁

[@AnthonyVella]

Very good comparison!

[@Teckno77]

@@AnthonyVella Thanks though my partner just says.....nope! haha 😄

[@shanesplanetshane3795]

@@Teckno77 I moved to a place my sport bike wasnt as feasible. Sold it and got a ppg. Still kept my supermoto tho. Ppg is unlike anything I've ever done, in a good way. Do it!

[@_spartan11796]

Hey Anthony just wondering if you are continuing the podcast. I listen to ALOT and yours in one of the ones I most look forward to

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you! And yes! I plan on having Travis Burns with One Up Adventure on the show next. He’s an AWESOME instructor on the east coast. I’m happy to hear you enjoy the podcast!

[@thisadventurelife503]

As always brother, proper video. Kevin can fly and i took a 37° flight on Monday out here in Oregon. Brrrrr it was cold but fun factor was unmatched.

[@macflyguy5166]

Hope you doing well Vella! Your energy help get me into the sport! Stay safe brotha!

[@johngemmi3576]

Another amazing video. Beautiful editing. Well spoken and articulate. 🙌🏻

[@NickSeee]

Anthony I think this is great video coming from the right place and really trying to help people get into our sport which is to be applauded. I would like to offer a counterpoint to your view of physicality though - I'm not proud of my weight, I'm in my fifties, my knees can give me grief from time to time but I do not recognise your "Foot launching is very physically demanding. Foot landing is even more physically demanding & Ever since I started flying paramotors, I have periodically experienced sharp pains shoot up my legs." To the uninitiated 'foot landing is even more physically demanding' and that last part about sharp pains up your legs makes it sound like all paramotorists are dropping out of the air like stones onto their feet. I've only been flying 2 years to your 3, but landings are literally zero impact on my body, I land gently on my feet and take a couple of steps. The only physical exertion in this sport from my point of view is if you have a few failed launches, perhaps on a nil wind day, the act of repeating setup and going again can get a bit sweaty... and clearly during training when you will hauling that wing up time and time again with no cooling flight between attempts. But for a general criteria for people to use to decide whether to get into the sport foot launch stylee? If you can carry a packed holiday suitcase 10 paces without your legs collapsing you're good to go.. the wing will be supporting all the weight after that. No criticism here about your video but wanting to help people understand that once you are able to take off reliably the physical demands are low and landing demands are insignificant.

[@AnthonyVella]

Love your point of view, and you're totally right. SOME people (like you) will experience this sport without pain, while others (like me) can and will occasionally get that pain. Now that summer is approaching, the pain happens far less often. Perhaps the cold has a lot to do with it (for me at least). Thank you for taking the time to write out your comment. I hope it provides even more clarity to folks. =D

[@wilsonsarmiento4842]

Thank you!! you are awesome. I will definitely do this.

[@joecombes1964]

11 days my man. 11 days and i start my first day of paramotor training. ive watched this video probably 30 times. love it.

[@AnthonyVella]

Congrats brother! I wish you the very best. I am sure you will be in love with flying paramotors. Thank you for watching the video. I'd love to hear how training goes. Find me on instagram instagram.com/anthonykvella

[@joecombes1964]

@@AnthonyVella ill be sure to fill you in after the fact. and shit i gotta make a Instagram. even the old guys got one now.

[@BN-HAPPY]

And I thought Tucker gott was the go to guy. Great videos and teaching👍👍 Some people don't care for Dell. But then, I don't hate anyone. He has the skills to back him up. I just got a new gravity paramotor at a huge discount. I thought about selling it until I just saw a few of your videos. Thanks so much. Your top of the line.

[@32laurens]

A new Vella video AND a new Gravity Connect podcast, this must be my lucky day! Sorry mate, can't help with the 10K goal, I already subscribed. Keep up the good work! Look forward to see you in the sky more once spring hits your side of the globe!

[@AnthonyVella]

I appreciate you Laurens Bloem! You’re a consistent supporter of my content. Thank YOU!

[@andreschapero3615]

Just imagine when paramotors go Tesla . Electric and no vibration, It´s possible today for 30 min flight times and prop aerodynamics will solve the noise matter once electric is the norm. Clean , light an reliable. The future looks great for this sport. Great video btw :-)

[@AnthonyVella]

That sounds awesome! I definitely look forward to seeing the future of this sport as well.

[@liveandletlive2894]

They have Electric PPG's

[@HandsONreviews4u]

The motor is way more reliable 👍any type of electrical maintenance will be very costly and if you yourself need to get out of a jam after you landed in an area with no immediate technician on hand tinkering around with a motor offers more options to flying again than a mother board

[@blue_beepblue_beep6358]

I fly hang-gliders and powered ones. I like the structure preventing wing collapses. My powered one is on a trike base, I chose this to save leg and back injury after hearing too many incidents of broken backs carrying motor, frame and fuel with no replaceable undercarriage. Don't get me wrong, hang-gliding is only 20 to 30% safer than paragliding. The trike base is a simple addition that even without accident will keep you flying longer. Knees and backs wear out with extra weight and landing shocks. Also the comfy seat allows for longer flights.

[@flyjtaylor]

Dude... you gotta come fly central Texas with me! Love your enthusiasm. Reminds me of my very first feelings of walking into the sky!

[@adamsilver7268]

Heeyyyyy, great stuff man. Keep inspiring people. It's always worth the investment.

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you bud. I hope more people get our lifestyle.

[@jerrydelyea5820]

Great vid Anthony, all great info for people getting into the sport, cheers and blue skies bro, Jerry

[@john.french]

Awesome and honest review! Loved the humor, especially the family one. Lol

[@mattcero1]

You get airborne way easier in cold air than in hot air.

[@skcyclist]

You are an outstanding presenter. Enthusiastic, genuine and articulate.

[@scottphillips6847]

Great video Anthony. This is a great idea that some have tried to cover but didn't do this as well as you did here. Nice work. Thanks for what you're doing. I think you've got a great channel to follow. Cheers!

[@goldenlira1]

First of a kinda video from of one of a kind. Well done, chap.

[@DanielJonesParamotor]

Been looking forward to this 👍

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

Same here Dan, special guest appearances :).

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you for the support brother! Lemme know how it turned out once you’re done watching! 😁

[@AnthonyVella]

@@GolfFoxtrot22 British appearances are the best! They’re so...”proper”. 😉😉

[@GolfFoxtrot22]

@@AnthonyVella with the correct style panche. 😉

[@DanielJonesParamotor]

@Golf Foxtrot 22 We're famous now! 😅

[@wardified8566]

I started with a paragliding school (Cloud 9 in Draper Utah) then they helped me add the motor after. Worked out well 👍🪂👍

[@ddiver7908]

I've skydived for 10 years and the part i always liked about skydiving is being under canopy. I think I'll take up paramotoring

[@OneTalaw]

NICE!! I was beginning to think I was the only one who thought that way about flying and heights and overcoming this fear through knowledge, experience and confidence in your equipment....Tucker Gott take note. Dude, keep up these video and wisdom. You jyst gained one more subscriber. 🙂👍

[@jesusfreakandmrs1613]

Cool video, I went by Kyle O'Glee's, and checked out his stuff, he had lying around. I took a lot of pics, I'm still thinking about it.

[@ryandinan]

Do it! KyleO is one of THE BEST out there!

[@jesusfreakandmrs1613]

@@ryandinan 5k to 10k buy a used kolb firefly off barnstormers, a ppg in stiff winds, pitmanair.com those trikes are what I'm thinking

[@bradboardwell8295]

You just earned yourself a new subscriber 👍🏼👍🏼 thanks for making these videos. You, tucker, and a few others are definitely on the top of my list for PPG content.

[@tylercall358]

Great video! Lots of good information

[@TheChrisBreyShow]

I fly up high, whilst you skim the ground. Crazy!! Can you keep us 10000 fans updated on advancements on Brushless electric gear? Is it here yet?

[@ruggednorthman]

You mention ep 12 on your podcast, what happened to it? Great video, thank you for doing this one.

[@christopherroman9555]

Love your energy, also the content was very helpful. Thanks friend:)

[@matt55555taken]

You are great! Love the videos and the podcast. Keep the podcast up it will be worth it eventually. Have ppg grandpa on your podcast.

[@ns7sperling1]

Awesome Video!!!!! Thank you.. gotta get into this Sport!!!!

[@40krocks21]

I see a future for you in the ASMR community haha. Awesome video by the way. Really enjoy learning about paramotoring. Looking to start training soon! Your channel has been super helpful with understanding the sport, and videos like this help paint a picture of what to expect. Appreciate you my dude!

[@LeandraKVella]

glad i’m not the only one who believes he could make it big in ASMR haha. until that day i’ll have to stick to videos of cats and dogs eating 😅

[@40krocks21]

@@LeandraKVella haha ya my brain automatically thinks of that when I hear his at home voice. I’m not even a big fan of ASMR, but I know that voice/tone and he’s got it! And ha my good friend loves all of that muckban stuff (idk how to spell it) and it’s super interesting. Not my thing but it seems like a lot of people love it. Crazy how much you can find on KZbin ha.

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you! I sincerely appreciate you noticing the sounds. I’ve struggled with editing sound, but I’m getting better. Thank you for the support. 🙂

[@DanielJonesParamotor]

As requested at 3:14: Bulldog Paramotors are a UK company that are certainly in it for the sport and not in the market of rinsing you for your hard earned cash. Their paramotor is very feature rich and cheap to fix if you have a mishap.

[@AnthonyVella]

www.bulldogparamotors.co.uk

[@tertiaryfish101]

Great job as always as always brother!

[@james7705]

Best paramotor editing out there. Any chance you could do multiple wing reviews. So I know you are sponsored by dudek, would they let you do reviews on ozone or BGD wings? I am sure companies would loan them to you for a full review. The best videos are the wing reviews by people to are honest like yourself. Just a idea

[@chamales3]

I want to try a BGD too. Get that going Vella.

[@tossedsaladandscrambledegg8576]

I guess expensive is relative but that's $14K for new kit. You cannot touch a manufactured new airplane for less than $100K. And that is for a factory built kit plan. $14k for a paramotor is pretty reasonable. Now I know folks that have paid about 8,000 for a used rig and had instructor friends train them at no cost.

[@steveneckert5438]

Good, honest review. Appreciate hearing all of the possible problems involved before I make a purchase. Similar to windsurfing when one is always waiting for the perfect wind. I love a good motorcycle ride and only need gas.

[@pfd_mark_taylor]

I'm not sure about this.... Relying on a review from a crazy man with a bias? Bwahaha. But you're right about all the things, so we're good. Learning to fly PPG was an accomplishment - but like a crack addict, I wanted to learn more stuff, so I just got my private pilot's license. But PPG is still more fun and it's what I do most. Also, I've seemed to develop a fear of heights in my older age, but not while flying - never once while flying. Probably because flying feels like a video game and not what it actually is - dangling thousands of feet up with some strings and a lawn mower.

[@AnthonyVella]

Dude! I am envious of your courage in the air! More than anything, I’m jealous that you got your PPL! All jokes aside, I’m super happy for you. You’ve got to give me a ride in a plane someday. I’ll pay for the plane rental.

[@pfd_mark_taylor]

@@AnthonyVella It's a trap! PPL doesn't allow passengers to pay anything more than their "pro rata share". So, for you and me, that's half. Sorry, ground school and checkride still freshly burned in my brain. It would be fun to fly out to Texas some day. Maybe stick some paramotors in the back, idk.

[@homezero]

It was a pleasant surprise to find there was a paramotor pilot here in Fort Wayne. I had never seen any in the air around here. I live north east so I'd venture to guess you live elsewhere.

[@roberteshelman5917]

This was such a good video, Anthony. I'm sure it will be appreciated by many. I look forward to flying with you one day!

[@AnthonyVella]

I look forward to flying with you as well! I’m glad you enjoyed the video. 🙂

[@boblindner5808]

The production quality and information in this video is superb!

[@cobravenum]

Great job dude, love the way you are cool about explaining the goods and bad or unsafe things to do. Id take lessons from you any day my guy. Thanks

[@ilajna5186]

Great video Anthony! I have decided to learn this sport, kiting is something which has intrigued me to learn this sport. I definitely want to master kiting , going to learn it near Houston. Do make a video on instructors , would like to know more about how one should select . Great work !! 🙌🏼

[@andyfung7878]

Hello I really enjoyed your video. I can see the time and effort spent, well done. My tip is the music. I know that maple leaf rag is a legendary song, but sometimes it is better to do no song. It can be distracting. I really like the animations tho, keep that up

[@AnthonyVella]

This comment should serve as an example on providing constructive the right way. I genuinely appreciate and agree. My thought is that the video wouldn’t perform as well if I didn’t have music. Adjusting the levels is challenging, and I don’t always get it right. Point being, you’ve actually given me something to consider. Thank you.

[@GodzillaGoesGaga]

Subbed YT and Podcast. Great discussion.

[@parajerry]

I am an almost 56 year old licensed single-engine and glider pilot with a couple hundred skydives and a bit of hang-glider training. I have not flown or skydived in over 20 years. Glider was about 4 years ago. Took a paramotor tandem a couple of weeks ago (I did fly a trike once 25 years ago...by myself after an hour training) and I am in. Scheduled my training while spending 2 weeks in Vegas in October. I fully plan to foot launch and have been practicing kiting with my Ozone Mojo Pwr 2. There has been no wind so it is exhausting, but I think I can do it. If I get to training and can't, my instructor has the trike attachment...but I really want to foot launch so I have the option of either. I shattered an ankle 28 years ago skydiving and it gets tight or hard to stand on after a day's pounding, but I can work through it in about 15 minutes and I am good the rest of the day. Thanks for your honest review. As others have stated, I am at the point in my life where I can afford and have the time to get back into aviation, but renting (or buying) a plane is outrageously expensive now. Add the insurance and maintenance costs and it is out of the ability of most people. I could probably swing it, but why? I fly to enjoy flying, not to get anywhere. This is the absolutely least expensive way to get into the air with a motor. Anyone that cannot save up enough money for a used paramotor and training over a year or two probably has a lot more to worry about that flying. Myself, I already got my wing and am about to order the paramotor. I have seen many in person and decided on the same one I will be training on. Total investment with wing, paramotor, training, helmet, reserve chute, and flotation (I am in Florida) is about $18k. Probably the cheapest hobby I have except for a drone. Maintenance will not be much (unless I start breaking props) and a trike attachment is a couple thousand dollars if I need it. I am good with mechanical things and engines so I can do most myself. Now, I drive around town identifying every possible field I could use and trying to figure out who owns it, are there any rules about parks, etc... I plan to go visit the beach about an hour away in search of some smooth laminar winds to practice kiting without running. I can't wait to reach training. Two months to go...

[@AnthonyVella]

Thank you for taking the time to write that, Jerry! I wish you the best. I’d love to hear about your training experience when you finish up.

[@Life_of_Rick]

Fantastic video - I can't wait to get started!!!

[@nateeaton7729]

Being 16 and physically fit, I certainly don't think the physically demanding parts would be too much of an issue for me, or the learning curve.