Hang/Paragliding Outfitters
Unlike windsurfing or snowboarding hang- and paragliding are not the kind of sports where you can just buy a rig and go your way. Both are risk sports, and while accidents are extremely rare, the fact remains that a wrong move can indeed get someone killed.
Which means no one is going to sell you a glider unless you are qualified to fly the thing. So the rule of thumb is this: If a place offers instruction, it also supplies new gliders and gear. However, some operations have the equipment and facilities for more extensive services, like airframe repair. This guide should tell you what extras a shop has.
Mission Soaring Center
1116 Wrigley Way
Milpitas, CA 95035
E-mail: mschg@aol.com
Phone: (408) 262-1055
Website: www.hang-gliding.com
MSC is a full-service establishment. The guys there have everything necessary for airframe repairs and sail mending. In addition to being a dealer in all kinds of gliders and accessories, MSC has a bunch of gliders in-house for demo flights. Used equipment is also under the roof, all of which gets the Strip Down Inspection, an gear check and overhaul to make sure it's kosher. MSC can give your glider an annual checkup, or install and/or repack emergency parachutes, too. What more do you need?
Western Hang Gliders
Reservation Road at Marina State Beach
Marina, CA 93933
Phone: (408) 384-2622
Website: www.westernhanggliders.org
When a place is as into flight as Western Hang Gliders is, all the usual support services can't be far away. And they're not. WHG stocks gliders and accessories, along with repair facilities a-plenty. You can take your rig to Western for an annual checkup. Or if you auger in and need some frame repairs, they'll help you out there, too. They also have an on-site snack bar! WOW!
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