Paragliders are constructed using different types of nylon, line material, and webbing. The glider itself is usually made from rip stop nylon produced by one or more manufacturers. Commonly, different weights (g/m2) of material are used for the top and bottom surface, as well as the ribs and reinforcement points in the glider. Manufacturers produce fabrics with various strengths and weaknesses. Almost all of these fabrics have some sort of UV coating to increase longevity. It’s a good idea to do some research on the type of material used in a particular glider before purchasing it.
The lines are made up of a core that provides the strength and a sheath that provides UV and abrasion protection. The core is either Kevlar (aka Aramid) or Spectra (aka Dyneema) in varying diameters measured in mm. The sheath is made of polyester. Kevlar is the line core material of choice for most glider manufacturers; it has good strength and durability and doesn’t shrink or stretch. Spectra line is about 40-percent stronger than Kevlar, but can shrink or ‘creep’ over time or after it has been exposed to water, and can require maintenance to keep the lines the proper length. The lines connect to the glider at attachment points that are reinforced with Mylar. At the other end they are connected to the risers via triangular quick links made of stainless steel. The risers are most commonly made from pre-stretched nylon.