Paragliding fabrics, typically made from nylon 6.6, naturally shrink over the lifespan of a wing and the rate of shrinkage depends on variable factors such as temperature and humidity cycles. Ozone gliders are produced with internal structural components including plastic rods inserted into fabric sleeves, the rods are cut to precise lengths during manufacturing and take into account the shrinkage of the fabric. However this shrinkage is by nature somewhat unpredictable and the rods themselves - whether plastic or nitinol - do not shrink at the same rate as the fabric itself. In rare cases the rods can become too tight within their socks creating excessive plastic tension.

The ENZO 3 is unique among Ozone gliders. Unlike the Zeno, Zeolite, or others, the ENZO 3’s B-lines are not under tension at trim or accelerated speeds. Its profile is maintained entirely by the plastic rods, making their correct length critical. Every detail matters to get the best out of this high-performance wing and plastic tension directly influences feel and performance.

Read the full article and learn more about the Enzo 3 rods here.