Advance LIGHTNESS 4
Redefining Lightweight Performance and Comfort in Paragliding
The Advance LIGHTNESS 4 is not just a paragliding harness — it’s a declaration of freedom in flight. Designed with precision and passion by ADVANCE, this ultralight performance harness evolves from its acclaimed predecessors to deliver even greater aerodynamic efficiency, ergonomic support, and total flight enjoyment. Whether you’re a cross-country enthusiast, hike-and-fly adventurer, or soaring competition pilot, the LIGHTNESS 4 opens a whole new chapter in lightweight thermal exploration
A Lightweight Legend Reimagined
When ADVANCE introduced the original LIGHTNESS series, pilots around the world immediately recognized its transformative blend of comfort, performance, and minimalism. Now, the LIGHTNESS 4 pushes boundaries even further — seamlessly integrating cutting-edge materials, aerodynamic refinement, and intuitive flight ergonomics.
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 What’s New in the LIGHTNESS 4?
Every detail of the LIGHTNESS 4 speaks to ADVANCE’s engineering brilliance. Far from a simple iteration, this version introduces several major improvements, all while maintaining the core characteristics that pilots have come to trust and love.Advance LIGHTNESS 4
Enhanced Aerodynamic Profile
In paragliding, drag reduction is everything. That’s why the LIGHTNESS 4 boasts an even sleeker profile. Redesigned rear contours and refined pod geometry work in tandem to cut through air with effortless efficiency, letting you cover more distance — with less effort and more glide.Advance LIGHTNESS 4
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 Intelligent Materials Meet Technical Design
While the LIGHTNESS 4 remains one of the lightest fully-featured harnesses on the market, its materials are stronger, more durable, and even more comfortable. Through extensive testing and feedback, ADVANCE has selected high-performance fabrics that resist wear while remaining soft against your skin, even on long thermal climbs.Advance LIGHTNESS 4
More Adjustability, More Support
Comfort isn’t one-size-fits-all. That’s why the LIGHTNESS 4 offers a redesigned seating geometry, giving you increased lumbar support, enhanced leg comfort, and an intuitive adjustment system. This means more time focused on the air — and less on shifting position.
Key Features of the Advance LIGHTNESS 4
To truly appreciate this harness, consider the game-changing innovations ADVANCE has packed into its ultra-refined design:
✅ Superior Weight-to-Comfort Ratio
Weighs as little as 2.7 kg, including speedbag
Delivers full back support with ergonomic shaping
Offers fatigue-free flights for many hours
✅ Aerodynamic Pod System
New pod contours reduce drag across the body
Magnetic closure and integrated lines enhance airflow
Constructed for both performance and XC pilots
✅ Modular Cockpit and Storage
Detachable cockpit with ample space for instruments
Smart interior pockets for ballast and gear
Extra leg storage integrated within the pod
✅ Advanced Protector and Safety Integration
High-quality foam protector system for passive safety
Optional SAS-TEC back protector compatibility
Emergency parachute compartment with optimized deployment geometry
✅ Personalized Adjustment System
Precise leg strap adjustment for secure fit
Shoulder strap tuning for posture and pressure control
Speedbag tensioning system for aerodynamic alignment
✅ Flight Deck Innovations
Velcro and cord loop system for instruments
Smartphone and powerbank access during flight
Optional cockpit lighting and power routing
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 Flight Comfort Elevated
Designed for Long Hours in the Sky
From your very first thermal climb to your final flare of the day, the Advance LIGHTNESS 4 wraps you in sublime comfort. The seatboard-less design works naturally with your body’s movements, enabling you to adapt mid-flight without tension. You’ll notice the difference during transitions, glides, and while turning in turbulence.Advance LIGHTNESS 4
Thermalling With Confidence
Nothing disrupts a good thermal session like a harness that shifts unexpectedly. Fortunately, the LIGHTNESS 4’s balanced center of gravity and pitch stability help you carve up circles with pinpoint precision — even in choppy air. Plus, the aerodynamic rear fairing adds just the right amount of damping to smooth your ride.Advance LIGHTNESS 4
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 Hike & Fly Without Compromise
Lightweight, But Never Fragile
Hike & fly pilots often face the dilemma of weight versus durability. The LIGHTNESS 4 eliminates that choice. Thanks to its use of ripstop Dyneema, lightweight Cordura, and reinforced strap points, the harness endures rugged terrain without weighing you down.Advance LIGHTNESS 4
Compact Carrying and Storage
The included COMPRESSBAG Light ensures a snug pack-down without damaging the pod. It fits easily into a 90L backpack or hike-and-fly rucksack. And with its optimized shape and straps, carrying the harness uphill feels as natural as descending under wing.
Performance That Scales With You
Whether you’re flying local XC routes or entering your first vol-biv expedition, the Advance LIGHTNESS 4 scales with your ambitions.
For Intermediate XC Enthusiasts
Easy pre-flight setup
Light enough to carry daily
Exceptional in-air comfort
For Seasoned XC Competitors
Low drag performance at high speeds
Integrated cockpit for navigation and tracking
Precise body geometry for high-G thermals
For Hike-and-Fly Explorers
Minimal volume
Reinforced back support for hike comfort
Compact cockpit integration for GPS/power solutions
Technical Specifications
Component Specification Weight (M Size) ~2.7 kg (including pod) Harness Type Pod harness without seatboard Back Protection Foam, SAS-TEC optional Reserve System Underseat deployment Sizes Available S / M / L Pilot Height Range 155 cm – 202 cm Certification EN / LTF compliant Materials Cordura, Dyneema, Ripstop Nylon
Use Guide and Sizing
Choosing the Right Size
ADVANCE offers the LIGHTNESS 4 in three sizes to ensure a tailored fit. You should always consult the official sizing chart and, if possible, try the harness with your wing and gear before purchase. Size selection affects comfort, leg extension, and rear fairing tension.
Setup Tips for Maximum Performance
Adjust shoulder straps before tightening leg loops
Tension the pod correctly to reduce flutter
Ensure reserve handle is securely fixed and visible
Use cockpit wiring for instrument power if necessary
Why Pilots Love the LIGHTNESS 4
“A harness that disappears during flight — it’s just me and the air.”
– Luc, XC pilot, Switzerland“The LIGHTNESS 4 helped me complete my longest FAI triangle with no back pain. Absolute game-changer.”
– Mira, adventure flyer, Slovenia“I’ve flown it in competitions and bivouac flights — there’s nothing I’d change.”
– Tobias, pro pilot, Austria
Technical data
| Sizes | S | M | L | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pilot height | cm | 155-172 | 165-183 | 178-200 |
| Harness weight * | kg | 3.25 | 3.47 | 3.58 |
| Rucksack volume | l | 81 | 91 | 91 |
| Weight rucksack | kg | 0.62 (81 l) | 0.64 (91 l) | 0.64 (91 l) |
| Reserve compartment volume | l | 3 – 5.5 | 3 – 6.0 | 3 – 6.5 |
| Harness certification | EN & NfL / 120 kg | EN & NfL / 120 kg | EN & NfL / 120 kg | |
* The weight includes the speed system, the inner container with handle, protector, SAS-TEC, two carabiners and cockpit
Sizing chart
When choosing your ideal harness size, consider your body weight as well as your height.
Package
- LIGHTPACK DLS
- Comfort foam
- Protector & SAS-TEC
- Reserve inner container with handle
- ALIAS Speed carabiners
- Ronstan pulleys
- Speed System
- Speedbag including Cockpit
- Carbon footboard
- Step-in-Aid
- Hook Knife
- Windshield with protective cover
Optional extras (Related Products)
- FLATBAG DLS
- Reserves
- Helmets
- Bags
- Connectors
- Harness Spares
- Clothing
LIGHTNESS 4: NEXT LEVEL COMFORT / LIGHT XC HARNESS
- COMFORTABLE: Comfort Redefined
With the redesigned seat shell, the LIGHTNESS 4 is even more comfortable and ergonomic than its predecessor. It ensures fatigue-free and relaxed flying for many hours. The overall comfort can be further enhanced with the included windshield, which reduces wind chill and wind noise.
- PRACTICAL: Easy Handling
In its fourth generation, the LIGHTNESS is even more user-friendly. Simple adjustment options, easy entry into the speedbag and unimpeded vision in flight contribute to this. These features also make the transition to a pod harness easier and provide a completely new flying experience.
- SPORTY: Aerodynamic Design
The new rear fairing of the LIGHTNESS 4 offers improved aerodynamics, increased longitudinal stability, and a sportier look. Thanks to its moderate size, it provides benefits without being noticeable during takeoff or flight.
Developer’s note
“THE MODEST REAR FAIRING GIVES THE LIGHTNESS 4 IMPROVED AERODYNAMICS AND A SPORTY LOOK.”
– PATRICK BIERI, Lead Designer LIGHTNESS 4
Technology & features
NEW 3D BODY FITTING
The increased comfort is based on three factors: 3D Body scans are used to adapt the seat shell to real body shapes, and the back is supported even better as the body position in the harness has been shifted slightly forwards. The cushion effect created by the supportive back foam rounds off the concept.
Closure remember system (CRS)
The Closure Remember System (CRS) has been revised and optimised for easier handling. The small number of steps required to close the speedbag minimise the risk of forgetting to close the main strap before take-off. In addition, the buckles are now anodised red, making them even more visible for pre-take-off checks.
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 Improved aerodynamics
Along with a high level of comfort, straightforward handling and compact- ness have always been the objectives of the LIGHTNESS series. That is why Advance have opted for a modest rear fairing for the LIGHTNESS 4. It improves the aerodynamics of the new LIGHTNESS 4 and contributes to the sporty look.Advance LIGHTNESS 4
Protector & SAS-TEC
The EN-certified foam protector and its SAS-TEC component are always ready for take-off. Unpack and fly.
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 LIGHTPACK DLS included
The LIGHTNESS 4 is supplied with a LIGHTPACK DLS as standard. The two products are perfectly matched and form a compact and very comfortable overall system. With a weight from 620 g, ergonomically shaped shoulder straps and a padded back section, the LIGHTPACK DLS combines low weight with maximum comfort.
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 COMPACT, PRACTICAL COCKPIT
The new cockpit offers plenty of storage space and easy handling. The contents are easy to reach in flight thanks to magnetic fasteners and it can be packed small. The removable cockpit panel offers sufficient space and securing options for electronics. The LIGHTNESS 4 is also supplied with a windshield and hook knife.
35% Advance LIGHTNESS 4 MORE STORAGE SPACE
The back compartment capacity is 22.5 litres, 35% more volume than the LIGHTNESS 3, while the storage compartment under the seat holds a further 6.5 litres. There is also a new 8 litre space in the speedbag nose.
Advance LIGHTNESS 4 Features
- Fully operational, comfortable lightweight XC harness from 3.25 kg (size S).
- Newly-designed ergonomic seat shell for even greater comfort.
- Modest rear fairing for maximum aerodynamics and sporty aesthetics.
- 35% more storage space in the back compartment.
- Redesigned cockpit with plenty of storage and small packed size.
- New Closure Remember System (CRS) – even easier to manage.
- EN-certified foam protector incl. SAS-TEC back protection and comfort foam.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.