Skywalk X-ALPS3 User manual

X-ALPS3
Ultralight Performance – LTF09: DE | EN: D
Skywalk GmbH & Co KG Windeckstr. 4 | 83250 Marquartstein | +49 (0) 8641/69 48 40 | [e-mail] | www.skywalk.info

X-ALPS3
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to skywalk!
Congratulations on the purchase of your new X-ALPS3 and thank you for your trust in us
and in our products. In this manual you will find information that will help you quickly get to
know your new paraglider to ensure your fun for a long time.
At skywalk we are enthusiastic about wind sports and innovative technologies.
When we founded skywalk in 2001, our goal was to make paragliders and kites that
offer new solutions to set new impulses, and to provide customers with a maximum of
user friendliness. Today we are one of the most successful paraglider manufacturers
in the world. For this we are thankful for our curiosity about everything that flies, sails and
surfs, as well as our interest in a variety of outdoor sports. It’s this “big picture” view that
allows us to continuously set new accents in paragliding.
We are always open for questions, comments or critique and are happy to provide you
at any time with further information!
Your skywalk Team
PURE PASSION FOR FLYING
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1Introduction 37
2Description, Technical Data, Line System 38
3Acceleration System 42
4 Harness 43
5Flight Techniques and Characteristics 43
6Descent Techniques 48
7Extreme Flight Maneuvers 50
8Materials 53
9Maintenance 53
10 Disposal 54
11 Maintenance-Check 55
12 Homologation 56
13 Nature and Environmentally Compatible Behavior 56
14 Closing Words 57
15 Line Schematic 58
16 Risers 59
17 Overview Glider 60
18 Line Length 61
19 Test Protocol 62
Introduction 3736 Table of Contents
EN
Edition 2/ 01_2018
The latest version of the manual can be found on
www.skywalk.info

X-ALPS3
2 TECHNICAL DATA
Size XXS XS S
Cell number 80 80 80
Area flat (m²) 20,5 21,5 22,4
Wingspan flat (m) 11,98 12,27 12,57
Aspect ratio flat 6,99 6,99 6,99
Area projected (m²) 17,67 18,54 19,3
Wingspan projected (m) 9,77 10 10,21
Aspect ratio projected 5,4 5,4 5,4
min. profile depth (cm) 46,1 47,2 48,2
max. profile depth (cm) 212 217 221
middle line length without risers (cm) 690 706 722
Line consumption (m) 266 272,8 278,7
Weight (kg) 3,3 3,4 3,5
Take-off weight from - to (kg) 65–85 70–90 80–95
Winch certified yes yes yes
JET FLAP technology yes yes yes
Paramotor homologation no no no
Accelerator yes yes yes
Maximum speed bar travel (mm) 180 180 180
Trimmers no no no
Number of seats 1 1 1
CAUTION
THE FIRST FLIGHT MUST BE CARRIED OUT BY A QUALIFIED EXPERT. THE TYPE
CERTIFICATE AND THE DATE OF THE FACTORY INSPECTION CAN BE FOUND IN
THE MIDDLE CELL OF THE GLIDER. THE DATE OF THE FIRST FLIGHT AND NAME
OF THE PILOT SHOULD BE ENTERED HERE. SHOULD THIS BE MISSING,
ASSUME THAT THIS GLIDER IS A PROTOTYPE THAT HAS NOT BEEN TESTED.
2 DESCRIPTION
The X-ALPS3 was developed for Hike & Fly pilots who want to achieve the maximum
in competitions like the Red Bull X-Alps. The optimal synthesis of high performance,
balanced flight characteristics and radically low weight design provides the basis for
huge successes where every gram counts.
PILOT REQUIREMENTS
The X-ALPS3 is designed for pilots well practised in recovery techniques, who fly very
actively, have significant experience of flying in turbulent conditions, and who accept
the implications of flying such a wing.
SCOPE OF DELIVERY
The X-ALPS3 comes standard with inner bag, compression strap, user manual, glider
backpack and riser bag.
JET FLAPS
Each of our gliders is equipped with skywalk’s patented JET FLAP technology. Air is conducted
from the bottom of the wing (pressure area) to the top of the wing (vacuum area) and is blown
out there with a higher speed. The connection is established through jet shaped channels
located toward the back of the wing. The addition air mass on the top of the wing delays
the flow separation. The stall occurs later, the minimum flyable speed is lower, and the
pilot has more reserve in the angle of attack. This is especially important in phases such
as takeoff and landing. The JET FLAPS also help to improve climb performance since they
allow you to circle very slowly in thermals with little danger. The glider can be flown normally
as the JET FLAPS don’t require any special control technique.
Technical Data 39
EN
38 Description

X-ALPS3
The skywalk X-ALPS3 may not be flown:
> outside of the minimum and maximum certified takeoff weights
> with a motor
> in rain, snow, or in extremely turbulent weather conditions, or in strong wind
> in clouds or fog (visual flight)
> with insufficient pilot experience
> if flown with more than one person
> if the canopy is wet
> at temperatures under -30°C or over 50°C
> for acrobatic flight (flight maneuvers at an angle of more than 135 degrees)
During production, the X-ALPS3 underwent carefully selected quality controls and was
inspected once again before shipping. Keep in mind that a paraglider can only be flown
while observing the laws of the country in which it is flown.
2LINE SYSTEM
The layout of the suspension points is designed for optimal load distribution and a long
lifespan. With all considerations and calculations however, our focus is always on safety.
The mix of materials used on the lines of the X-ALPS3 is an ideal combination of durability,
low stretch and low drag.
The skywalk X-ALPS3 has 3 A-, 3 B-, 3 C-, and 1 stabilo line.
The main-stabilo is connected with the B2-riser.
The brake lines are not load-bearing and lead from the trailing edge over the main brake
lines through the brake pulleys on the C-risers to the brake handles.
A marking on the main brake line indicates the position of the handle attachment.
This setting should not be lengthened, for example, to provide more brake travel in extreme
flight situations or during landing, nor shortened such that the glider is flown constantly
with some brake on.
To provide a better overview and to make sorting easier, the lines have differ-
ent colors:
> the Stabilo lines have a pink loop cover
> the main brake-lines are orange
> the remaining lines are unsheathed.
The lines are attached with loops to triangular shackles and secured with rubber rings.
The skywalk X-ALPS3 has 5 risers per side.
These are depicted in a schematic diagram at the end of this manual.
IMPORTANT SAFETY WARNING
FLYING A PARAGLIDER REQUIRES MAXIMUM CAUTION AT ALL TIMES.
WE REMIND YOU THAT YOU FLY YOUR PARAGLIDER AT YOUR OWN RISK!
AS THE PILOT IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO ENSURE THE AIRWORTHINESS
OF YOUR GLIDER BEFORE EVERY FLIGHT. REMEMBER THAT MENTAL FITNESS
IS ALSO A RISK FACTOR.
Line System 4140 Line System
EN

X-ALPS3
4 HARNESS
The skywalk X-ALPS3 is licensed for all certified harnesses of the GH type (harnesses
without solid cross-bracing).
Be aware that the relative brake travel and the agility of the glider change with the height
of the attachment point.
5 FLIGHT TECHNIQUES AND CHARACTERISTICS
PREFLIGHT CHECK AND MAINTENANCE
It is important to check all paragliding equipment thoroughly before every flight to see
if it has any defects. Also check the paraglider after long flights and after long storage.
Check thoroughly:
> All seams on the harness, the rescue chute attachments and the risers
> That all connecting parts, line shackles and carabiners are closed
> The brake line knots right and left, following the lines all the way up to the canopy
> All other lines from the risers to the canopy
> All line attachment points on the canopy
> The top and bottom of the wing for damage and wear and tear
> The profiles and the crossports on the inside
> If the glider is dry
CAUTION
DO NOT LAUNCH IF YOU FIND ANY DEFECTS, EVEN SMALL ONES! IF YOU
FIND ANY SIGNS OF DAMAGE OR ABNORMAL WEAR AND TEAR, CONTACT
YOUR FLIGHT SCHOOL OR SKYWALK DIRECTLY.
3 ACCELERATION SYSTEM
The skywalk X-ALPS3 can be equipped with a foot-operated acceleration system.
The acceleration system effects the A, A2, B and B2 risers. Exact lengths and an illustra-
tion of the risers can be found at the end of the instructions.
Both risers are equipped WITHOUT trimmers.
SPEED CONTROL HANDLE
Handle on rear riser. This handle allows the pilot to even out turbulence, speed and pitch
while flying on speed bar without having to release the speed bar. Pull down the handle,
but only so far that the line shackles on the rear riser don’t drop below the line shackles
on the A-riser.
CAUTION
WHEN FLYING AT TRIM SPEED,
THE HANDLE SHOULD ONLY BE
USED FOR STEERING THE GLIDER
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY.
Flight Techniques and Characteristics 43
42 Acceleration System
Accelerated Speed Control
EN
A
A2
B
B2
C
Beschleunigt
A A2 B B2 C
Speed Control

X-ALPS3
TURNING
The skywalk X-ALPS3 is very manoeuvrable and reacts to steering inputs directly and
without delay. Simple weight shift enables you to fly very flat turns with minimal altitude
loss. Combined steering technique: Weight shifting and pulling of the inside brake line
allow extra tight turns. During turning you can control the speed, the curve radius and
banking by additional use of the outer brake. Counter braking or releasing the brake lines
can change these parameters most effectively.
CAUTION
PULLING THE BRAKE LINES TOO FAR AND TOO FAST CAN CAUSE A STALL!
YOU CAN RECOGNIZE AN IMPENDING NEGATIVE SPIN BY THE HIGH CONTROL
LINE PRESSURE AND SLIGHT BACKWARDS FOLDING OF THE WING TIP.
IF THIS HAPPENS, RELEASE THE INSIDE BRAKE IMMEDIATELY.
EMERGENCY STEERING
Should a brake line break or a brake handle become detached, you can still steer and land
the glider with limited control using the C-risers.
ACTIVE FLYING
Active flying means flying in harmony with your paraglider. That means that instead of
flying with the brakes always in the same position, you are aware of the slightest distur-
bances in the air and react accordingly, especially in turbulent thermals.
Never let go of the brake handles, especially in turbulent conditions!
Despite your glider’s high stability, you should constantly use brakes and weight shift
to correct the position of the canopy in turbulence. With a light tug on the brakes you
can constantly keep in contact with the canopy and feel its internal pressure.
That way you can recognize and react early to a pressure drop and impending collapse.
As you gain experience, these reactions will become instinctive.
The skywalk X-ALPS3 rarely collapses even without a pilot reaction.
However, maintaining an active flying style will greatly increase your margin of safety.
Examples:
> To avoid large changes in the angle of attack, release the brakes when flying into
strong updrafts and pull them when flying into downdrafts.
> When flying in turbulent air, if you feel a drop in pressure in parts of your glider, pull
the brake briefly and progressively until the pressure becomes normal again.
If you brake the wing too quickly and too far, you risk stalling it!
LAYING OUT THE GLIDER
If you use your paraglider for the first time we recommend that you practise some
inflations and try some simple flights at a training site. This way you are able to get
used to your skywalk X-ALPS3. Lay out the canopy so that the leading edge is slight-
ly arched.
The middle of the canopy should form the deepest point of the paraglider.
This way the A-lines are tensioned first in the middle whilst inflating.
The paraglider inflates evenly which ensures a stable and straight take off.
The X-ALPS3 is very easy to sort due to the 3 line levels, yet sorting should always be
completed carefully. All lines have to run freely without any knots and twists from the
risers to the canopy.
During flight, tied or crossed over lines can often not be released or untangled!
The brake-lines are lying directly on the ground, so please pay attention that they do
not become entangled during launch. There shouldn’t be any lines beneath the canopy
during take-off. Line-overs can have fatal consequences!
TAKE-OFF
The skywalk X-ALPS3 is easy to launch.
Hold the A-risers and the brake handles in your hands. The brake lines are coloured orange
and the brake handles are black. Hold your arms slightly sideways and backwards like an
extension of the A-risers. Before launching check the laid out glider.
Further check the wind direction and the airspace! Pull rapidly and the canopy of the
skywalk X-ALPS3 will launch and rise above your head. The canopy will inflate fast and
reliably. Keep the paraglider straight above your head and run forward.
Slow down a little as soon as the upward pull decreases. You can open any collapsed cells
by pumping the affected side. Changes of directions that are necessary can be carried
out now. Look and feel that the wing is properly inflated. Don’t make your final decision
to accelerate or to take-off until you are absolutely sure that the wing is properly and
evenly inflated. Otherwise, stop the take-off procedure immediately! During reverse
launches and in strong winds, it is possible that the paraglider surges forward and inflates
faster than intended.
You can counteract this by running towards the glider. We recommend practicing this
demanding launch technique on a flat slope! If you reverse launch it is advisable to only
use the inside A-risers. This way the glider opens a bit more slowly and in strong winds
you don´t have to deal with the full pressure at once.
Flight Techniques and Characteristics 4544 Flight Techniques and Characteristics
EN

X-ALPS3
ACCELERATED FLYING
The speed bar should be secured to the harness prior to launch.
To use the acceleration-system you will need to make some effort. This can affect
the sitting position in the harness. Therefore we recommend an upright position in
the harness. Adjust the harness before your first attempt of accelerated flight.
We remind you to only fly in wind conditions that don’t require constant use of the
acceleration-system.
To reach the maximum speed press the acceleration-system firmly until both pulleys
on the A-risers touch each other. As soon as you apply the acceleration-system the
angle of attack will be reduced, the speed increases, but the paraglider becomes less
stable and can collapse more easily. Therefore always use the acceleration-system with
adequate altitude from the ground, obstacles and other aircraft.
Avoid adjusting the speed bar too short. It is important to avoid unintentionally accelerat-
ing the glider due to a setting that is too short. Accelerated collapses are normally more
impulsive and demand fast reactions.
CAUTION
NEVER ACCELERATE IN TURBULENT AIR!
NEVER ACCELERATE NEAR THE GROUND!
NEVER LET GO THE BRAKE HANDLES!
NEVER BRAKE THE GLIDER SYMETRICALLY WHILE FLYING ACCELERATED!
LANDING
The skywalk X-ALPS3 can be landed easily. Make your final approach against the wind
and let the glider slow down at its own rate. Further reduce the speed by applying the
brakes lightly and evenly. At about 3m above the ground you increase the angle of
attack by slowing down more and eventually completely flare out the glider.
When you have reached the minimal speed apply full brake. In strong head winds, slow
down carefully. When you have reached the ground safely, stall the glider warily. Avoid
turning sharply before your final approach. This increases the danger of pendulum effect!
PACKING
Conscientiously packing your glider guarantees a consistently high quality. First, remove
all leaves, grass, sand, etc., then sort the lines and lay them on top of the glider.
Always make sure that the glider is dry and clean before you pack it.
Start with the second cell from the middle and lay them cell for cell on top of each other
so that the reinforcements of the inlets are kept together. Repeat this process on the
trailing edge by starting from the middle and folding together every second panel, drawing
them towards the middle. After that, lay the folded panels on top of each other and press
the air from the trailing to the leading edge. After doing this on both sides, turn one half
onto the other and beginning from the bottom, fold the glider up towards the leading edge.
You can fold the risers in with the glider or leave them sticking out at the bottom or
still attached to your harness. When packing, remember to straighten out the lines and
shackles to keep them from bending. After every fold, let out the remaining air in the
glider through the leading edge. Attach the compression strap around the glider loosely
and place it in the nylon bag. If you prefer to use a tube, the steps are the same up the
point where you turn the folded panels onto each other. Pull the straps tight and make
sure that no material is caught in the zippers.
You can also pack any skywalk glider with elastic nylon wires by any other method with-
out damaging the leading edge. Place the harness with the seat board facing up (to dis-
tribute the load better) on top of your glider and close the zippers. You will find adequate
space rest of your equipment (helmet, overall, instruments, etc.) under the cover of the
rucksack.
A hint to increase the life of your glider even more:
Don’t pack your glider too tightly. Treat the leading edge with care despite its robustnes
and open up your wing a bit if you store it for a longer period of time.
EN
Flight Techniques and Characteristics 4746 Flight Techniques and Characteristics

X-ALPS3
The spiral dive can be used to lose altitude quickly, so please consider
the following:
> High sink rates and the related high G-forces lead to a high physical strain on the body
that may be too much for inexperienced pilots! Approach spiral dives slowly!
> Tensing your stomach muscles during a spiral dive can be very helpful!
> If you feel dizzy or faint, exit the spiral dive immediately!
> Due to the extreme altitude loss in a spiral dive, make sure you always have enough
safe reserve.
> To avoid strong surging when exiting the spiral dive, release the inside brake slowly
while continuing to apply the outside brake.
> The brake line pressure in a spiral dive is substantially higher than in normal flight!
CAUTION
TO EXIT A SPIRAL WITH A HIGH SINK RATE (> 14M/S), IT MAY BE NECESSARY
TO BRAKE THE OUTSIDE HALF OF THE GLIDER AND/OR TO SHIFT YOUR
WEIGHT TO THE OUTSIDE OF THE TURN. THE EXIT MAY REQUIRE SEVERAL
COMPLETE ROTATIONS AND MAY CAUSE A HIGH LOSS OF ALTITUDE. FOR THIS
REASON, DON’T PERFORM THIS MANEUVER AT AN ALTITUDE OF LESS THAN
200 METERS! BY THE TIME YOU REACH THIS ALTITUDE, THE MANEUVER
SHOULD HAVE ALREADY BEEN COMPLETED!
BIG EARS
In contrast to the spiral dive, with big ears your forward speed is higher than your sink speed.
This descent method is used to quickly leave dangerous areas in a esired horizontal
direction. To collapse the wing tips, pull down both outside A-lines, which are connect-
ed to separate A-risers. The resulting collapsed wing tips will put the glider in a stable sink
flight. The brake handles remain in your hands together with the outer A-risers.
The glider can still be steered by weight shifting. The danger of canopy disturbances
in turbulent air is greatly reduced with big ears.
To exit, release the A-lines. The canopy will normally reopen by itself. You can brake a little
to speed-up the opening. It is better if you reopen one side at a time to reduce the
danger of a stall.
WINCHTOWING
The skywalk X-ALPS3 is well suited for winch towing.
Make sure that you only use certified winches and that you climb from the ground at a
flat angle.
The pilot must have had proper towing instruction and must ensure that the winch
operator has had proper training that includes paragliders. When launching on a winch,
always fly with a lot of feeling and don’t brake too much as your glider will already have an
increased angle of attack. We recommend the use of a towing adapter.
FLYING WITH A MOTOR
Currently, the X-ALPS3 has no certification for flying with a motor.
You can find out the current status of motor certification at any dealer or importer,
or by asking skywalk directly.
6 DESCENT TECHNIQUES
This manual is not intended to be an instruction manual and skywalk highly recommends
taking part in a safety training course over water.
The following hints will help you to get the most out of your glider.
For all extreme maneuvers it is important:
> First to practice them under the tutelage of a certified flight instructor as part of a
safety training course.
> To ensure that the airspace below you is clear before entering each maneuver.
> To maintain eye contact with your glider throughout each maneuver.
SPIRAL DIVE
The skywalk X-ALPS3 does not tend to enter a stable spiral dive – rather, it will recover by
itself if the brakes are released. You can enter a spiral dive by carefully increasing the brake
pressure on the inside of a turn while shifting your weight in the same direction.
If the glider doesn’t bank enough and the sink rate doesn’t increase, it’s better to start
over again rather than to keep applying brake without sensitivity. The spiral begins when
the glider banks sharply to the side and enters a sharp, steep turn. You can control the
bank angle and descent rate by applying or releasing the inside brake.
48 Descent Techniques Descent Techniques 49
EN

X-ALPS3
FRONTSTALL
The glider can be front-stalled with a strong pull on the A-risers or when encountering
sudden down drafts. The leading edge collapses impulsively along its entire length.
Light brake pressure can reduce oscillations around the longitudinal axis and will help to
speed up the opening of the canopy.
The skywalk X-ALPS3 will recover from a front stall by itself. Should the recovery be
delayed by turbulence, you can support it with light braking on both sides. Make sure
that you don’t over brake your glider!
PARACHUTAL STALL
The X-ALPS3 never showed a tendency to parachutal stall in the entire development
phase. Despite this, it is possible to perform a parachutal stall.
Gliders with porous material (UV radiation) are especially susceptible, as are those
that are burdened frequently by winch tow launches. A parachutal stall can also occur
when the glider is flown in rain (soaks up moisture). The glider has no forward speed
and a high sink rate.
The skywalk X-ALPS3 will normally recover from a parachutal stall by itself.
If this doesn’t happen, the pilot can end the stable parachutal stall by pushing forward
on the A-risers at the level of the line shackles or by activating the speed bar with
your feet.
CAUTION
IF YOU APPLY THE BRAKES DURING A PARACHUTAL STALL, THE GLIDER
WILL IMMEDIATELY ENTER A FULL STALL. NEAR THE GROUND, A STABLE
PARACHUTAL STALL SHOULD NOT BE EXITED DUE TO THE RESULTING
OSCILLATIONS. INSTEAD, THE PILOT SHOULD SIT UP IN HIS HARNESS AND
PREPARE FOR A PARACHUTE LANDING FALL.
NEGATIVE SPIN
A paraglider enters a negative spin when one side of the wing is stalled. The canopy
rotates around the vertical axis with the center of rotation located within the wingspan.
The inside wing flies backwards.
There are two causes for the negative spin:
> One brake is pulled too far and too hard (e.g. when entering a spiral dive)
> One brake is pulled too hard when flying slowly (e.g. while thermal flying).
Examples:
> If the pilot is surprised near a summit with little ground clearance by strong wind
or a thundercloud, neither a B-stall nor a spiral dive can help.
> If the pilot is stuck in very strong lift, it is advisable to exit the lift band with the use
of big ears and to find sinking air in which to lose altitude.
B-LINE STALL
This manoeuvre is not possible with the X-ALPS3. For fast descent use a spiral dive.
7 EXTREME FLIGHT MANEUVERS
ASYMMETRIC COLLAPSE
The X-ALPS3 is an EN/LTF D glider and should be flown by seasoned pilots with experi-
ence in extreme conditions. Your skywalk X-ALPS3 is a very stable glider, but collapses
can still happen in strong turbulence.
The inherent turn toward the collapsed side of the glider can be minimized by braking the
open side. With large collapses, brake the open side carefully to avoid stalling the wing.
If the collapse doesn’t open despite braking and weight shifting on the open side, you can
speed up the opening process by repeatedly pumping the brake on the collapsed side.
CR AVAT/ LINE OVER
This type of disturbance has never occurred during test flights with the skywalk X-ALPS3.
However, it is possible in extremely turbulent air or due to a pilot error that part of the
wing could get tangled in the lines. The pilot should first stabilize the glider by carefully
braking the open side. Without pilot reaction, a cravat can cause a glider to enter a stable
spiral dive!
To clear the cravat, there are several possibilities:
> Pumping the open side
> Pulling on the stabilo-line
> Perform a manual collapse of the affected side
> Fullstall
Should these maneuvers not succeed or if the pilot fells overwhelmed
by the situation, the rescue parachute should be deployed immediately!
50 Extreme Flight Maneuvers Extreme Flight Maneuvers 51
EN

X-ALPS3
8 MATERIALS
The skywalk X-ALPS3 is manufactured from the highest quality materials.
skywalk has selected the best possible combination of materials with regard to resilience,
weight and performance.. We are aware that the durability of the glider is a deciding factor
in the pilot’s satisfaction.
WING AND RIBS
Upper sail: Porcher Skytex 27g
Lower sail: Porcher Skytex 27g
Ribs: Porcher Skytex 27g hard
LINES
A, B, C Main lines: Edelrid 8000U-230,/U-190/U-90
A, B, C Middle lines: Edelrid 8000U-90/U-50, Liros DC60
A, B, C Top lines: Edelrid 8000U-50, 9200-30
Brake lines: Liros PPSL160, DC60, Edelrid 9200-30
RISERS
Liros 6mm Dyneema
9 MAINTENANCE
With proper care, your skywalk glider should remain airworthy for many years.
A well treated glider will be able to fly twice as many hours as a glider that after each
use is stuffed without feeling back into its sack.
Always remember: your life depends on your glider!
STORAGE
Ideal is a dry, dark place with a constant temperature. Moisture is an old enemy of the
durability of all paragliders. For this reason, always dry your equipment before you store it,
preferably in a heated and well ventilated room, so that moisture can evaporate.
CLEANING
Any rubbing or abrasion can cause your glider to deteriorate quickly. The PU coated
canopy material is dirt-repellent and in emergencies, can be cleaned easily. If you still
think you need to clean your glider (e.g. of cow manure), then use a soft, damp towel or
a sponge WITHOUT soap, solvent or detergent. Let your glider dry thoroughly before
storing it.
If an accidental negative spin is exited immediately, the skywalk X-ALPS3 will normal-
ly resume flight without much altitude loss. Just release the brake line that was pulled too
far until the airflow is restored to the inside wing. After a long negative spin, the canopy
may surge forward on one side. This could result in an impulsive collapse.
WINGOVERS
Alternating left and right turns as the bank angle is gradually increased. If wingover are
flown high with a large bank angle, the outside wing tip may loose pressure and start to
feel light. In this case, don’t increase the bank angle any more as the tip could collapse
impulsively.
CAUTION
NEGATIVE SPINS AND WINGOVERS OVER 135° ARE FORBIDDEN ACROBATIC
MANEUVERS AND ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BE FLOWN UNDER NORMAL CONDI-
TIONS. THE WRONG EXIT TECHNIQUE OR PILOT OVERREACTION CAN HAVE
DANGEROUS CONSEQUENCES REGARDLESS OF THE TYPE OF GLIDER
FULLSTALL
A glider enters a full stall when both brakes are pulled down too far. The glider loses
forward speed and eventually collapses back behind the pilot.
CAUTION
AT THIS MOMENT IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOT LET UP ON THE BRAKES, OTHER
WISE THERE IS THE DANGER THAT THE GLIDER MAY SURGE FORWARD IN
FRONT OF THE PILOT AND MAY EVEN FALL BELOW THE PILOT.
The available brake line travel is about 45cm for size XXS, 47cm for size XS and 49cm
for size S. However, these values are only reference points to give an idea of the useable
brake travel. In turbulent air, a stall can occur much earlier or later with the application
of a higher or lower amount of brake line travel.
52 Extreme Flight Maneuvers Materials / Maintenance 53
EN

X-ALPS3
> When launching in a strong wind, part of the glider may hit the ground hard. This can
lead to tears in the ribs or damage to the seams. For this reason, inspect your glider on a
regular basis for this type of damage.
> After landing, don’t let the glider fall to the ground on its nose as this can damage
the material in the leading edge.
10 DISPOSAL
When choosing materials, skywalk places high value on environmental compatibility and
the highest quality control. Should your glider someday no longer be flyable, remove all
metal parts such as shackles, pulleys, etc.
All remaining parts such as lines, material and risers can be turned in at a recycling center.
The metallic parts can be turned in at a metals recycling center. The best solution is to
send your retired skywalk glider directly to us. We will then take care of recycling it.
11 MAINTENANCE CHECK
According to LTF regulations your glider will have to undergo a maintenance check
after 24 months or after 100 flight hours (according to which occurs first). According
to these regulations the Two-Year-Check has to be carried out by the manufacturer, its rep-
resentative or by the owner himself. The check will have to be confirmed by a official stamp
(ex. Checkair label). Missing this deadline or if the check is carried out by an unauthorised
company will lead the skywalk X-ALPS3 to lose any guarantee claim.
We recommend not doing this check yourself. Without the proper instruments and
specific knowledge the check will be insufficient. Airworthiness is therefore not guaranteed.
CAUTION
IF THE GLIDER IS SUBJECTED TO ABOVE AVERAGE WEAR AND TEAR (EXTREME
FLIGHT MANEUVERS, FORBIDDEN ACROBAT FLIGHT MANEUVERS) OR IS USED
FREQUENTLY IN SAND OR SALTY AIR, IT SHOULD BE INSPECTED EARLIER OR
SHOULD UNDERGO AN ADDITIONAL INSPECTION!
Changes to the paraglider:
Your skywalk X-ALPS3 is manufactured within the regulated parameters of tolerance.
These parameters are very narrow and must not be altered under any circumstance.
Only this way the optimum balance between performance, handling and safety can be
guaranteed!
REPAIR
Repairs should only be carried out by the manufacturer or by an authorized skywalk
service center. Exceptions include the repair of small cuts (up to about 5 cm that don’t
affect a seam) that can be patched with skywalk sail tape, and the swapping out of lines.
Replacement lines can be ordered directly from the skywalk homepage.
LINE REPAIRS
The main lines of the skywalk X-ALPS3 consist of a Dyneema- or Technora core.
Avoid heavy loads on individual lines as excessive stretching may be irreversible.
Repeating kinking of lines at the same spot reduces their strength. Visible damage to lines,
even if it’s only to the sheath, should be checked and possibly repaired.
New lines can be ordered from the manufacturer or from an authorized skywalk service
center. They will help you to replace defective lines. Before a line is replaced, the correct
length has to be verified by comparing it with the corresponding line on the other side
of the wing. After the replacement and before your next flight, perform a line check by
kiting up the glider on the ground.
TRIM CHECK
To ensure maximum safety and performance, we recommend to measure the lines of
the glider after 50 flight hours or 200 flights (according to which occurs first) to check the
trim of the glider.
HINTS FOR MATERIAL CARE
> Avoid leaving your glider unused in the sun or lying outside in bad weather.
> Avoid exposing your glider to abrasion by dragging it over sticks and stones.
> Always fold your glider carefully and loosely and avoid sharp creases and extreme
compression of the material.
> Always store the risers in the riser bag provided.
> Should the material come in contact with salt water, rinse it immediately and carefully
with fresh water and make sure that it has enough time to dry in a shady location.
> If you land in a tree, never pull hard on the lines or material to free your glider. Rather,
do so carefully and with patience. Once you have removed all leaves and branches from
your glider, inspect the line lengths and symmetry before your next flight.
> When laying out your glider, make sure that neither material nor lines are dirty as
particles caught in the fibers can shorten the lines and damage the material.
> If lines get caught on the ground, they can get stretched or torn during launching.
For this reason, make sure that all lines are free and avoid stepping on them.
> Make sure that no snow, sand or stones find their way into the canopy because weight
on the trailing edge of the glider can brake or even stall it. Should this happen anyway,
lift up the glider by C-lines so that the air inlets are pointing down and the canopy can
empty itself.
54 Maintenance Disposal / Maintenance Check 55
EN

X-ALPS3
CAUTION
UNAUTHORIZED CHANGES INVALIDATE THE TYPE APPROVAL AND ALL
LIABILITY CLAIMS AGAINST THE MANUFACTURER ARE INVALIDATED.
12 HOMOLOGATION
The X-ALPS3 is certified to LTF09 and EN926-1, EN926-2 in the category D.
Special folding lines were used when X-ALPS3 was going through certification. Without
these folding lines, asymmetric and symmetric collapses (tucks and frontals) may not
behave or recover as they did in certification tests.
The folding lines have a special setting according to the LTF/EN D requirements.
At the canopy, the folding lines are attached to special loops at the test model. At the
lower end, their three main lines are attached to a special riser. Please contact skywalk
if you have any questions regarding use of the folding lines and riser.
The X-ALPS3 is defined as a lightweight sport aircraft with an empty weight of less than
120kg in the paraglider category. The many homologation tests are the last hurdle in the
development of a skywalk paraglider. The homologation test flights only take place when
the test team is completely happy with the glider development.
We remark that the certification results will differ during flight in thermals or turbu-
lent air. The homologation informs solely regarding the paraglider performance during ex-
treme-flight-manoeuvres performed in stable air conditions. These extreme-flight-ma-
noeuvres during the homologation process should thus not be overvalued.
Remember that certification maneuvers were carried out with a harness in the group GH
with a carabiner distance (middle to middle) of 42-46 cm. If another harness is used, the
glider may display flight characteristics that differ from those in the description.
13 NATURE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY COMPATIBLE BEHAVIOR
We have taken the first step towards ecological awareness with our nature-friendly sport.
Especially with our mountain climbers who prefer to climb to the launch site.
Nevertheless, we plan on continuing in the same vein. This means specifically: clean up
your trash, stay on marked trails and don’t cause unnecessary noise.
Please help to maintain the balance of nature and to respect animals in their territory.
14 CLOSING WORDS
The skywalk X-ALPS3 is at the pinnacle of paraglider development in the market for
high performance wings and shows what is possible regarding performance, safety and
innovation. It cost us a lot of time to develop this glider, but it was also a lot of fun.
In this development we recognize the challenge of making the right product for every
area and individual taste. We are pleased if you notice this during your first flight and if
you feel a certain unity with your glider from the very beginning.
The X-ALPS3 will provide you with plenty of joy over many years if you treat it and care
for it properly. Respect for the demands and dangers of our sport are essential for
successful and beautiful flights. Even the safest paraglider can be dangerous due to
misjudgments of meteorological conditions or pilot error.
Always remember that flying sports are potentially risky and that you are responsible for
your own safety. We advise you to fly carefully and to respect laws in the interest of our
sport, because every pilot always flies at his or her own risk!
WE WISH YOU A LOT OF FUN WITH YOUR NEW GLIDER
AND ALWAYS HAPPY LANDINGS!!
Your skywalk Team
56 Homologation / Environmentally Compatible Behavior Closing Words 57
EN

X-ALPS3
15 LINE SCHEMATIC
This line schematic is only for
illustration purposes.
Risers 5958 Risers
A1 B1 C1
A2 B2 C2
A3 B3 C3
A4 B4 C4
A5 B5 C5
A6 B6 C6
A7
a1 b1 c1
a2 b2 c2
a3 b3 c3
a4 b4 c4
a5 b5 c5
a6 b6 c6
a7 b7 c7
a8 b8 c8
a9 b9 c9
a10 b10 c10
a11 b11 c11
a12 b12 c12
a13 b13 c13
a14 b14 c14
s1
s3
S1 S2
s2
s4
S
AI BI CI
AII BII CII
AIII BIIICIII
AM1 BM1 CM1
brmain
A (AI, AII) B (BI, BII)
C (CI, CII, CIII)
BR I
BR II
BR III
BR 1
BR 2
BR 3
BR 4
BR 5
BR 6
br 1
br 2
br 3
br 4
br 5
br 6
br 7
br 8
br 9
br 10
br 11
br 12
br 13
Lineplan X-Alps2
brmain2
EN
16 RISERS
X-ALPS3
Size XXS, XS, S
TRAGEGURT
X-ALPS2
525 mm 440 mm
400 mm
360 mm
A A2 B B2 C
A:
A2:
B:
460 mm
B2:
525 mm
C:
Trimspeed Accelerated
A2 (AIII) B2 (BIII,S)

X-ALPS3
17 OVERVIEW GLIDER 18 LINE LENGTH
1 Stem lines
2 Top lines
3 Bottom sail
4 Cell openings
5 Top sail
6 Trailing edge
7 Nameplate
60 Overview Glide Overview Glider 61
Total line length XXS: www.skywalk.info
Total line length XS: www.skywalk.info
Total line length S: www.skywalk.info
Single line length XXS: www.skywalk.info
Single line length XS: www.skywalk.info
Single line length S: www.skywalk.info
EN

X-ALPS3
Test Protocol 6362 Test Protocol
Examinations of the lines:
Firmness of mais´n lines: daN
Results [+/–]: Description of failure: Suggested repairs:
Visual check of trimming:
Checkflight necessary?
Gütesiegel patch?
Identification plate?
Condition: New
Very good condition
Good condition
Well used
Heavily used, but within gütesiegel standards, frequent checks required
No longer airworthy, outside of the limit values.
Repairs made?:
Signature of tester: Date:
Name of tester: Firm stamp:
19 TEST PROTOCOL Date:
Customer, Name:
Adress: Phone:
Glider: Size: Serial number:
Gütesiegelnr.: Date of last check:
Date of first flight: Year of
construction:
Accomplished checking: Results [+/–]: Description of failure: Suggested repairs:
Identification:
Visual check of canopy:
Upper surface:
Lower surface:
Profiles:
Line flares:
Leading edge:
Trailing edge:
Crossports:
Visual check of lines:
Seams:
Abrasion spots:
Core withdrawals:
Vis. check of connectionparts:
Suspension line screw locks:
Risers:
Length measurement:
Risers:
Lines:
Examinations of the
canopy:
Firmness of canopy:
Porosity:
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
+-
GmbH & Co. KG
WINDECKSTR. 4
83250 MARQUARTSTEIN Fon: +49 (0) 8641 - 69 48 40 www.skywalk.info
GERMANY Fax: [phone] - 69 48 11 [e-mail]
EN

X-ALPS3
NOTESNOTES
Notes 6564 Notes
EN

skywalk is offering its customers a brand new Guarantee. This Guarantee applies to all
customers who have purchased a Glider after 01.07.2007, and further extends the current
skywalk Guarantee. We are calling it the skywalk 2+2 Guarantee. The skywalk 2+2 Guar-
antee covers material or workmanship defects and applies to all authorized, (DHV seal
of approval or CEN) privately used equipment. Professionally used gliders (for instance
Flight Instruction School Gliders and commercially utilized Tandem gliders) are not includ-
ed in the guarantee. No warranty claim is available for: Normal wear and tear insufficient
maintenance, improper storage, treatment or handling with chemicals of any kind acci-
dents or purposefully crashing into obstacles any behaviour which is purposefully damag-
ing to the glider In order to activate the guarantee, the customer must send the complet-
ed skywalk Guarantee Card within 14 days back to skywalk, or simply complete the on-
line formula on the skywalk homepage. In the case of damage the Glider should be sent
to skywalk at the customers expense with a copy of the sales contract. Guarantee de-
cisions and Guarantee repair will be carried out exclusively by skywalk. If a Guarantee is
warranted, skywalk will carry out all decisions regarding repair, parts exchange or product
replacement (possibly with discount- new for your old glider) The Guarantee is valid until
2 years after the date of purchase. If a complete Glider check is performed by skywalk
or by a skywalk authorized check center (current listing under (www.skywalk.org/deal-
er) according to rigorous skywalk guidelines within two years of purchase, then skywalk
will extend the 2+2 Guarantee for two more years, so to speak, to a 4 year Guarantee.
skywalk strives to find the optimal solution for each individual customer, and where appli-
cable is prepared to undertake further actions as a gesture of goodwill to our customers.
To take advantage of all the
skywalk 2+2 Guarantee please
register on www.skywalk.org
skywalk bietet seinen Kunden für alle nach dem 01.07.2007 gekauften Gleitschirme
eine über die gesetzlichen Gewährleistungsvorschriften hinausgehende skywalk
2 + 2 Garantie. Die skywalk 2+2 Garantie umfasst Fehler am Material oder Verarbei-
tungsfehler und gilt für alle zugelassenen, (DHV Gütesiegel oder CEN) privat genutzten
Geräte. Professionell genutzte Schirme (z.B. Schulung oder gewerbliche Tandemschirme)
sind von der Garantie ausgenommen. Kein Garantiefall liegt vor bei: normalem Ver-
schleiß ungenügender Wartung, unsachgemäßer Lagerung, Behandlung oder Berührung
mit Chemikalien aller Art bei Unfall oder Hindernisberührung unsachgemäßem Umgang
mit dem Gleitschirm Zum Wirksamwerden der Garantie sendet der Kunde die skywalk
Garantiekarte innerhalb von 14 Tagen nach dem Erwerb des Gleitschirms an skywalk
zurück oder füllt das entsprechende Onlineformular auf der skywalk homepage aus.
Im Schadensfall ist der Gleitschirm auf eigene Kosten mit einer Kopie des Kaufver-
trages an skywalk zu senden. Garantieentscheidungen und Garantiereparaturen werden
ausschließlich von skywalk selbst durchgeführt. Liegt ein Garantiefall vor, entschei-
det skywalk über Reparatur, Teilaustausch oder Ersatz des Produkts (eventuell gegen
Abzug Neu für Alt). Die Garantie gilt zunächst 2 Jahre ab dem Kaufdatum des Schirms.
Wird der Gleitschirm bei skywalk selbst oder einem von skywalk autorisierten
Checkbetrieb (aktuelle Liste unter www.skywalk.org/dealer) bis 2 Jahre nach
dem Kaufdatum einem qualifizierten 2 Jahrescheck nach den strengen skywalk
Checkrichtlinien unterzogen, so verlängert sich die skywalk 2+2 Garantie
um weitere 2 Jahre, also auf 4 Jahre. skywalk wird für jeden Einzelfall bestrebt sein, die
für den Kunden optimale Lösung zu finden und daher auch ggf. im Kulanzweg noch wei-
tergehende Leistungen bereitzustellen.
Bitte auf skywalk.org
registrieren!

X-ALPS3
Skywalk GmbH & Co KG Windeckstr. 4 | 83250 Marquartstein | +49 (0) 8641/69 48 40 | [e-mail] | www.skywalk.info
SAMAXA300 user manual for X-ALPS 3