Today, we’re diving into two impressive harnesses: Advance BOUNDLESS and Advance AXESS 5. Each offers unique features that cater to different needs, and we're excited to explore them both.
Overview
First up is the BOUNDLESS. It boasts a clever tagline: “The reversible harness you don’t have to reverse.” This reflects its innovative design, which allows the rucksack to be removable. You can choose to leave the rucksack attached for a reversible setup or detach it entirely, giving you the flexibility to adapt to your preferences.
The AXESS 5 is kind of the equivalent to the BOUNDLESS, but in a non-reversible form. The most obvious difference is that the AXESS 5 doesn’t come with a rucksack, so you need to get one separately. The most obvious combination with the AXESS 5 is one of the Advance COMFORTPACK, though you can also opt for the LIGHTPACK DLS, which comes with the BOUNDLESS. So you have a choice of which backpack you want to use to match your kit.
BOUNDLESS details, reserve, storage,...
The BOUNDLESS is clearly designed for pilots prioritizing weight savings and compact pack size.
Here’s the BOUNDLESS, size medium (83L), and I’m 181 cm tall. One of the standout features is the detachable backpack, which sets it apart from LIGHTPACK. It simply zips on, giving you the option for a reversible harness, or you can remove it if you prefer not to use the backpack.
Advance has incorporated a clever design element, likely inspired by the WEIGHTLESS concept. There’s a protector at the bottom, along with another protector higher up. What’s particularly innovative is that when you insert the backpack, it doesn’t take up valuable space in the back of the harness. Instead, it becomes part of the protector, optimizing both space and functionality. It’s a smart design that enhances practicality without compromising protection.
Clipping in with the BOUNDLESS is nearly identical to the AXESS 5. The harness geometry and overall clip-in process are very similar, if not exactly the same. The leg straps are integrated into the waist strap, reducing the number of buckles for easier leg movement. However, some pilots prefer more buckles for added security when strapping in, though this does add complexity. The leg straps that cross over can restrict movement on the ground, but there’s an extra bungee with a cord stopper, along with some padding. The padding serves a practical purpose: it helps keep the straps away from sensitive areas, which makes a noticeable difference in comfort.
The BOUNDLESS and AXESS 5 have the extra leg strap position holders, which the SUCCESS 5 doesn't.
While the additional straps aren’t necessary, they are an option worth considering, especially if you’re doing a lot of ground handling or frequent takeoffs and landings. It’s a very simple and quick system to clip in, which I find quite convenient. The simplicity of this system is something I genuinely appreciate.
Now, let’s dive into the features of the harness. Starting at the top, there’s the reserve bridle system, which comes with integrated bridles. I do wish the bridles were designed to be removable for steerable reserves, which is what I have here. However, Advance has provided a pocket for those who want to use them. It’s important to tuck the bridles neatly into their pocket because if the reserve deploys without being properly stowed, it can damage the zip. While we’re at the top, you’ll also notice the well-designed H2O drink system, which is not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and built to last.
The integrated reserve bridles and connection loops are the same for the BOUNDLESS, AXESS 5 and SUCCESS 5. (Maillons not included. Used in the review for attaching a steerable reserve.)
Moving to the back, there’s a storage pocket with a clever design that allows the backpack to integrate seamlessly into the bottom of the harness. This not only adds protection but also frees up space in the back of the harness, eliminating the need to store your backpack there. This pocket is also ideal for storing your drink system, complete with a line and stopper, which allows it to hang securely rather than flopping around. The H2O hole is for a drinks system tube to go through. Drinks system not included, as with all harnesses.
The BOUNDLESS is a standard sit-up harness without an exaggerated peak, which we think is the right design choice. There’s some subtle shaping on the back, and it looks fantastic in flight. Lower down, the reserve channel is positioned in a way that allows the zip to open wide, making it easy to deploy the reserve. The handle is well-placed, with a magnet keeping it secure, and the handle’s design ensures it’s easy to pull out without a struggle.
The back of the harness is beautifully shaped, with weight considerations clearly in mind. While the BOUNDLESS isn’t the lightest option, it strikes a good balance between durability and weight savings. The BOUNDLESS doesn't have the side and back SAS-TEC protectors, which the AXESS 5 and SUCCESS 5 do. The BOUNDLESS doesn't have the extra back comfort foam, which only the SUCCESS 5 does.
The seat is crafted for both control and comfort. Instead of a carbon seat board, they’ve chosen a new material that’s just as lightweight but more cost-effective. Like the AXESS 5, the BOUNDLESS has a honeycomb construction polypropylene seat board, to reduce cost. The SUCCESS 5 has a carbon fibre seat board, which is more expensive.
The leg straps are slim yet well-padded, and there’s a zipped pocket for small essentials like your phone. The harness comes with high-quality karabiners as standard, featuring an asymmetric opening that easily accommodates wide and thick risers. The karabiners and straps of the BOUNDLESS are well held in place, to avoid unwanted rotation.
AXESS 5 details, clipping in, reserve, storage,...
Let’s take a look at the AXESS 5 and compare it to the BOUNDLESS. A lot of things are very similar—the geometry of the harness, how it feels, and how it flies. In that sense, we think it’s very, very similar. The comfort level is also quite comparable, but there are some differences to note. Right away, when we feel the material of the AXESS 5, it feels very similar, if not identical, to the SUCCESS 5. It’s made to be more robust and durable, with a clear emphasis on the material being more hard-wearing. Additionally, you’ll notice that the AXESS 5 has more stiffening on the back, which adds to comfort, durability, and protection.
One key feature is the side SAS protectors, which we think is a significant advantage. These SAS protectors are stored in a zip pocket and are removable if you want to lighten your load. For instance, if you’re flying on dunes and want to reduce weight, you can easily take them off. We can also feel that the protector at the bottom is larger, providing even more protection around the back.
Like the SUCCESS 5, the AXESS 5 has a SAS-TEC back protector, providing additional back protection and support compared to the BOUNDLESS. The AXESS 5 doesn't have the extra back comfort foam, which only the SUCCESS 5 does. The AXESS 5 features side and back SAS-TEC protectors, for hip and back protection, like the SUCCESS 5.
However, unlike the BOUNDLESS, the AXESS 5 doesn’t have the backpack pocket integrated into the back, which is a notable difference. The AXESS 5 prioritizes safety, durability, and comfort over weight savings and pack size. Another difference is the carabiners—while the AXESS 5 uses Edelrid Alias 2 carabiners, the BOUNDLESS uses Forza. The speed system that comes with the AXESS 5 includes the same carbon speed bar and pulley system as the BOUNDLESS.
The AXESS 5 also has an integrated reserve system, and deploying the reserve is just as easy, with a zip channel and a pocket for the handle. The main difference in comfort is that the AXESS 5 has a bit more back support, and you can feel the SAS protectors a little on the sides, but overall, they are very similar.
Polypropylene seat board with honeycomb construction, same as the BOUNDLESS.
How do they fly & compare?
The AXESS 5 offers more options for ground handling, allowing you to attach bungee cords across the harness. In terms of flight feel, both harnesses are very similar, if not identical. There is a slight difference in comfort due to the extra support on the back of the AXESS 5. The level of weight shift between the two is quite similar; both are moderately weight-shifty, so if you’re looking for something super stable, these might not be the best options.
The BOUNDLESS, AXESS 5 and SUCCESS 5 all feature Advance's Balance-Strap-System, making it easy to slide back into the harness after takeoff, and stand up before landing
The level of weight shift between these two harnesses, and even the SUCCESS 5, is pretty much identical. They are moderately weight-shifty, not super stable, but not too weight-shifty either—somewhere in between. So, if you’re looking for something super stable, these might be slightly more weight-shifty than you want, but they’re still not as weight-shifty as some other harnesses, like the Woody Valley standard open harnesses or the Gin harnesses. These fall into a middle ground.
Each harness offers something different, with similar handling and flight feel but clear differences in the materials and design. The AXESS 5 emphasizes durability and protection, with a slightly lower cost, but it doesn’t come with a backpack. The BOUNDLESS, on the other hand, emphasizes lighter materials while still offering good protection, though the protector seems slightly smaller.
- Prioritising cost, durability, comfort and protection = AXESS 5
- Prioritising weight and pack size = BOUNDLESS
- Prioritising protection, comfort, performance, durability and features = SUCCESS 5
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, both the BOUNDLESS and the AXESS 5 offer remarkable performance, but they cater to different priorities. The BOUNDLESS leans towards lightweight versatility, while the AXESS 5 emphasizes durability and protection.
If you're unsure which harness is right for you, consider using our Flybubble Match Service. We have thoroughly tested all the different harnesses and can provide expert advice to help match you with the best option for your needs.
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