What is a variometer in paragliding?

Basic concept

How a variometer works

A variometer measures changes in air pressure. When you rise in a thermal, pressure drops. When you sink, pressure increases. The device converts this into audio and visual feedback so pilots can focus on flying instead of instruments.

Why pilots use it

Why GPS is not enough

GPS altitude: slow updates and delayed vertical change detection

Variometer: real-time pressure sensing for instant thermal feedback

→ Essential for thermaling and XC flying

Product

What this device does

Real-time audio climb & sink feedback

Altitude + vertical speed display

Bluetooth LE flight data output

Compact XC flight design

Learning

Who needs a variometer?

Paragliding pilots flying XC or thermal conditions use variometers to detect lift early and stay in rising air longer, improving flight efficiency and safety.

Get started

Try a real variometer

$59 USD Paragliding Variometer

Designed for XC pilots and thermaling flight conditions.Buy with PayPal

FAQ

Do I need one? If you fly XC or thermals, yes.

Is GPS enough? No, GPS is too slow for thermal detection.