Skywalk Updates Their Popular Fly Jacket: What’s New?

Skywalk have updated their popular 750 fill power down Fly Jacket.

The result is a reliable flying companion for long XC days, crisp spring conditions, and ambitious hike-and-fly missions.

What’s New in the Updated Fly Jacket?

1. More Robust Outer Fabric

The original Fly Jacket sold out when it was first released, but pilots have noted the outer fabric had a tendency to fray with hard use.

Besides the nylon ripstop outer fabric, other upgrades include more durable zips.

2. Improved Fit

Skywalk have refined the fit of the jacket, making it more comfortable for long days in the harness.

3. Optimised Details for Use Inside the Harness

Features include:

– Long sleeves and a unique shoulder construction to ensure cold air cannot come in at the wrists

– Strategically placed wool inserts on the back, cuffs, and collar

– Big pockets that can take anything from a second pair of gloves to a power bank — accessible in flight

Technical Specifications

– Fill power: 750 fill power down

– Outer fabric: Nylon ripstop (upgraded for durability)

– Weight: 525g (size M)

– Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

– Color: Faded green

– Zips: Upgraded for durability

– Fit: Unisex

Why This Matters: The Challenge of Staying Warm in the Air

Any pilot who’s spent long hours in the air knows the challenge of staying warm.

The Problem with Standard Jackets

Standard jackets have several issues when used for paragliding:

1. Bulk under the harness — they create pressure points

2. Cold air intrusion at the wrists and waist

3. Inaccessible pockets when you’re buckled into your harness

4. Insufficient insulation for high-altitude flights

The Fly Jacket Solution

Skywalk designed the Fly Jacket specifically for paraglider pilots:

– Slim fit that doesn’t bulk up under the harness

– Unique shoulder construction prevents cold air intrusion

– Big pockets accessible in flight (store gloves, power bank, snacks)

– Wool inserts on high-heat-loss areas (back, cuffs, collar)

– 750 fill power down provides excellent warmth-to-weight ratio

Real-World Testing: What Pilots Say

The original Fly Jacket sold out when it was first released — a testament to its popularity among pilots.

Feedback from the First Version

Pilots loved:

– Warmth-to-weight ratio (525g for size M is excellent)

– Packability (stuff it in your harness compartment)

– Pocket placement (accessible in flight)

Areas for improvement:

– Outer fabric durability (tended to fray with hard use)

– Zip durability (some pilots reported zip failures)

The Updated Version Addresses These Issues

Skywalk listened to pilot feedback and upgraded the outer fabric to nylon ripstop and improved the zips.

Who Is This Jacket For?

1. Long-Distance XC Pilots

For pilots doing 500km+ flights, the Fly Jacket is essential gear. When you’re at cloudbase at 3,000m, temperatures can drop below freezing — and you need reliable insulation.

2. Hike-and-Fly Enthusiasts

The 525g weight (size M) and packability make it perfect for hike-and-fly missions. Stuff it in your backpack for the ascent, then wear it under your harness for the flight.

3. Spring and Autumn Flying

Crisp spring conditions and autumn flying often mean variable temperatures. The Fly Jacket provides the versatility you need — warm enough for high altitude, breathable enough for mild conditions.

4. Alpine and High-Altitude Flying

Flying in the Alps or other mountainous regions? You’ll encounter rapid temperature changes. The 750 fill power down provides reliable insulation when the temperature drops.

Staying Warm = Flying Longer

There’s a direct correlation between comfort and flight duration.

The Comfort Factor

When you’re warm and comfortable, you:

– Fly longer (no need to land early because you’re cold)

– Make better decisions (cold impairs cognitive function)

– Enjoy the flight more (which means you’ll fly more often)

The Safety Aspect

Hypothermia is a real risk in paragliding, especially during:

– Long XC flights (exposure over several hours)

– High-altitude flights (temperature drops ~6.5°C per 1000m)

– Shoulder-season flying (unpredictable weather)

A reliable insulated jacket is not just about comfort — it’s about safety.

How to Use the Fly Jacket in Flight

Before Takeoff

Wear it during the approach to launch and while preparing for takeoff. The wool inserts will keep you warm during ground handling and preflight checks.

During the Flight

Put it on before you reach cloudbase. Don’t wait until you’re shivering — proactive warmth management is key.

The big pockets are accessible in flight — so you can:

– Store a second pair of gloves (for when your hands get cold)

– Keep a power bank (to recharge your instruments)

– Stash energy bars (for long flights)

Landing and Packup

Keep it on during packup. When you’re concentrating on landing and packing, you might not notice the temperature dropping. The Fly Jacket keeps you warm throughout the entire flying day.

Comparison: Fly Jacket vs. Standard Down Jacket

The Bottom Line: A Specialized Tool for Pilots

The Skywalk Fly Jacket isn’t just another down jacket. It’s a specialized piece of flying gear designed by pilots, for pilots.

Why Buy a Flying-Specific Jacket?

You could use a standard down jacket. But:

– It’ll bulk up under your harness (uncomfortable)

– The pockets will be inaccessible (frustrating)

– Cold air will intrude at the wrists (defeating the purpose)

– It might tear or fray with regular use (not designed for outdoor sports)

The Fly Jacket solves all these problems — and at €200-300 (estimated), it’s a worthwhile investment for any serious XC pilot.

Where to Buy

The updated Skywalk Fly Jacket is available now from Skywalk dealers and the Skywalk online shop.

Price: Estimated €200-300 (check with your local dealer)
Sizes: XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Color: Faded green
Weight: 525g (size M)

Related Products: Gear Up for Your Next Adventure

While you’re upgrading your flying gear, make sure you have everything you need for safe and efficient flying.

For Quick Packing After a Long Flight: Fast Pack Bag

After a 6-hour XC flight, the last thing you want is to spend 30 minutes carefully packing your wing. The Fast Pack Bag lets you pack quickly with its drawstring + buckle closure — so you can get home before the weather turns.

For Wing Protection During Transport: Concertina Bag

If you’re traveling to fly in different locations, protect your wing with a Concertina Bag. The accordion-style folding minimizes creases and protects the fabric during transport.

For Ground Handling Practice: Paragliding Harness Simulator

Before you fly in cold conditions, make sure your ground handling skills are dialed. The Harness Simulator lets you practice wing control safely on the ground — so you’re prepared for any situation in the air.

Final Thoughts: Small Gear, Big Difference

The Skywalk Fly Jacket might seem like a small piece of gear — but it can make a big difference to your flying.

Staying warm = flying longer = better XC performance.

And when you’re comfortable and focused, you make better decisions — which makes you a safer pilot.

What’s your cold-weather flying setup? Let us know in the comments — and share this article with your flying buddies. Because warm pilots fly longer!