Advance LIGHTNESS 4

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.

If you are uncertain which is the right size of harness for you, Advance recommends seeking expert advice from free-flight professionals. For this, Flybubble offers the Flybubble MATCH service.

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

The redesigned seat shell makes the LIGHTNESS 4 even more comfortable in flight than the previous model, and promises fatigue-free flying over several hundred kilometres. It can be adjusted for an individual body shape in just a few simple steps. Comfort is further improved by the new harness geometry, which also allows good pilot view, and the supplied windshield, reduces wind chill and wind noise.

• PRACTICAL

The fourth generation brings new features: The entire handling, including the Closure Remember System, has been made even simpler for a relaxed take-off. The newly developed cockpit now has more capacity and is easily accessible in flight. Sufficient storage space is also provided by a 35% larger back compartment and additional compartments under the seat and the foot board.

• SPORTY

The LIGHTNESS 4 is designed to meet the diverse demands of cross-country flying, hike-to-fly and vol-biv. The new XC classic meets this sporting requirement with its new colours, and has a modest rear spoiler which improves aerodynamic behaviour and efficiency. The pack size when using the coordinated LIGHTPACK DLS ensures a sleek look on the ground.

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

Next level comfort

The seat shell of the LIGHTNESS 4 has been completely redesigned and adapted to real body shapes using 3D body scans. The centre of gravity and therefore the position of the body has been moved slightly forwards to give even better support for the back. In addition, the comfort foam now rests on the back shell, which further increases comfort in the back area through a "cushion effect" ensuring fatigue-free flying.

Naturally a LIGHTNESS 4 conforms to ADVANCE quality and standards. The speedbag also has a strong but extremely light carbon footboard of the very latest generation.

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.

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.

Protector & SAS-TEC

The EN-certified foam protector and its SAS-TEC component are always ready for take-off. Unpack and fly.

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.

Redesigned cockpit

The cockpit has been completely redesigned and is now even easier to use. For take-off, the press of a button ensures that the contents do not fall out. An additional magnetic catch makes the cockpit easy to open and close in flight. The cockpit panel offers sufficient space and security for your electronics. This new concept does not require volume foam and can be folded up small when packing. The LIGHTNESS 4 is also supplied with a windshield and hook knife.

A space miracle

The LIGHTNESS 4 has several useful pockets and compartments. 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 forward of the footboard (the speedbag nose).

Choosing your size

Choosing the correct harness size is crucial for comfort and durability. Refer to the size tables for guidance. If unsure, seek advice from free-flight professionals. Flybubble offers the Flybubble MATCH service for expert help.

Since sizes are highly adjustable, it's best to stick with the standard matching size of harness and speedbag for most cases. This is also beneficial for resale value. In rare instances where a pilot has a exceptionally unique physique, such as disproportionately long legs or an unusually short body, they may need to mix different sizes of harness and speedbag to find the right fit.

 

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.

FAQ

WHAT MAKES THE LIGHTNESS 4 AN ALLROUND POD HARNESS?

Ease of handling, low total weight, packed size and outstanding comfort - these are just some of the features that apply to the LIGHTNESS 4 light cross-country harness. It can be flown in a reclined position for optimum aerodynamics or in a more upright posture for maximum field of vision. There is hardly any area of use for which the LIGHTNESS 4 is not suitable, be it thermal flying on the local mountain or ambitious cross-country achievements of 400+ km.

WHY IS THE LIGHTNESS 4 ESPECIALLY SUITABLE AS A FIRST POD HARNESS?

Many pilots report that the LIGHTNESS series was perfect for them when changing to a pod harness. The LIGHTNESS 4 can similarly be adjusted to the individual body shape in just a few simple steps. Preparing for take-off is easy, and the new Closure Remember System makes securing the harness even more practical as a safety feature. After take-off it is quick and easy to get a foot in the leg bag, and just as easy to get both out before landing. The harness can be flown in an upright position (upper body), which makes this transition easier for takeoff. A new harness geometry gives the pilot a better field of view.

WHAT IS DIFFERENT ABOUT THIS FOURTH LIGHTNESS?

The LIGHTNESS 4 has a completely new harness geometry and seat shell. Once again, overall comfort has been significantly improved. Body centre of gravity has been moved forward a little, which improves pilot pitch stability and, above all, widens his/her width of view. The back foam is now outside the basic back structure, which contributes to an agreeable cushion effect. Pilots familiar with the LIGHTNESS 3 may find these improvements feel a little strange at first. After a few familiarisation flights, however, the advantages will become clearly apparent.

WHY DOES A LIGHTNESS 4 PURCHASE INCLUDE A LIGHTPACK DLS?

Both design and function of the LIGHTPACK DLS perfectly match this harness. When packed for carrying, the two products together form a compact unit. Their combined weight lies close to the hiker’s back, ensuring greater comfort on foot. The LIGHTPACK DLS weighs from 620 gm, has ergonomically shaped shoulder straps and a padded back section, and combines low weight with maximum comfort. The LIGHTNESS 4 routinely comes with an 81 ltr. LIGHTPACK DLS in size S, and a 91 ltr. LIGHTPACK DLS for M and L harnesses.

HOW MUCH STOWAGE HAS THE LIGHTNESS 4?

The LIGHTNESS 4 has several useable pockets and compartments. The back compartment has a capacity of 22.5 ltr., 35% more than the LIGHTNESS 3, while a further storage compartment under the seat holds an additional 6.5 ltr. There is also a new 8-litre compartment ahead of the feet (in the speedbag nose).

WHAT IS THE FAIRING FOR?

The fairing improves harness directional stability, thus keeping the pilot’s feet pointing in the direction of flight. The resulting reduction in extraneous sideslip drag is clearly noticeable by the pilot as a glide performance improvement. This moderate size fairing is slightly smaller than that of the WEIGHTLESS, and is intended to avoid hindrance to the pilot during takeoff or in flight.

WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF A WINDSHIELD?

The windshield significantly reduces wind chill and thus body cooling. It also suppresses annoying wind noise when flying straight ahead - especially when accelerated. The windshield therefore contributes to fatigue-free flying over very long distances.

Advance product registration

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Downloads

DOCUMENTATION

• Getting Started
• User manual

See all downloads here.