skywalkparagliders
BRAND STORIES
The dream of flying is as old as humanity itself. For us paragliders, it becomes reality with just a few steps, offering an unmatched sense of freedom and escape from everyday life.
We are grateful to share this passion with others and proud to see paragliding as an essential part of mountain sports, opening new dimensions. Working with talented and inspiring athletes further fuels this shared love for the skies.
skywalk Paragliders
« POURQUOI TU VAS LÀ-HAUT »
“POURQUOI
TU VAS LÀ-HAUT“ seeks to capture the paradox that drives Nath.
This film presents an intimate and visual narrative of his journey, documenting his paraalpinism adventure in the Himalayas with his climbing partners Mitch and Cchering.
AT HOME NOTHING BROUGHT
« Little did I know this would change my life forever. »
Nathanaël describes himself as a young film director, cinematographer and photographer from the French Alps.
As a young alpinist, flying opened many new opportunities for Nathanaël, offering not only new ways to explore but also a fresh perspective on evolving in the mountains.
Through his mentor, he met Michel Cervelin, a paraglider and artist of the sky who was deeply passionate about extraordinary experiences. They quickly became friends and climbing partners, sharing a vision for wild, remote, and unique adventures. Their bond led them to book their first para-alpinism expedition to Ecuador, where they climbed many of the country’s highest summits and flew from the pinnacle of Chimborazo at 6,263 meters. To this day, Nathanaël and Michel struggle to describe the experience in words, but the joy in their smiles whenever they talk about it speaks volumes. Soaring alone above the summit, as long as the cold allowed, left a memory etched deeply in their lives.
From that moment, Nathanaël’s search for lifetime flights began. In 2022, during a 350km race through the Himalayas, he met Cchering Sherpa, who had just set a speed record on K2. Nathanaël was captivated by Cchering’s incredible life story and culture. Each evening, they would share stories, laughter, songs, and a connection that deepened Nathanaël’s passion for exploration. Running through the vast Himalayan mountains together strengthened their bond and further inspired Nathanaël’s quest.
However, returning home after these adventures was always a challenge. The rhythm of everyday life left Nathanaël feeling disconnected and unfulfilled. He only felt truly alive on expeditions, immersed in the raw beauty of nature and the camaraderie of those around him. Time seemed to hold a different meaning in the wilderness, but back home, even simple joys like Christmas with family failed to bring him peace.
Nath‘s film won Best Sports at the Kendal Mountain Festival and will tour with the Climbing Film Tour before its online release in spring 2025.
PARALPINISM FILM WINS KENDAL MOUNTAIN FILM AWARD
In 2023, after two professional expeditions as a cinematographer, Nathanaël realized he needed to confront his inner struggles. This realization led to the creation of „Pourquoi tu vas là-haut“ („What Brings You Up There“), a deeply personal project. For the first time, he organized a professional expedition where he took on the dual roles of athlete and director. The film became a way to explore his vulnerabilities and share his journey with others.
The process was far from easy. After seven years of constantly moving and living out of bags, Nathanaël had to find stability and relearn the concept of routine. But the effort paid off. Reflecting on his November 2023 flight from the summit of Cholatse, he says: „I dedicated a year of my life, surrounded by incredible people, to understand myself and create a timeless moment we can now share.“
Text: Nathanaël Sapey-triomphe
Photos & Video: Nathanaël Sapey-triomphe
„I’m in love with telling stories in an immersive way, where the viewer can feel the emotion, beauty, or purpose of what they see,“ he explains. Through his film, Nathanaël invites others to experience the awe of para-alpinism while sharing the human vulnerabilities that connect us all. WHAT BRINGS YOU UP HERE?
„It’s my dream idea of a view.“
FLY 2 FLY
Paul Guschlbauer had dreamed for years of a unique adventure - one that would push him to his limits and test his paragliding skills. His goal: Augustine Volcano, an active island volcano off the southern coast of Alaska. The plan was simple yet risky: land on the island with a bush plane, climb the summit, and paraglide down. For Paul, it was the perfect blend of remoteness, simplicity, and challenge.
Located 284 kilometers from Anchorage, the volcano was far from a typical paragliding spot - exactly what drew Paul to it. Spotting it during a previous Alaska trip, he immediately knew: this was where he wanted to fly. However, landing there posed significant risks. Paul spent years preparing - analyzing satellite images, planning routes, and studying wind patterns. A reconnaissance flight revealed a possible landing spot, sparking hope.
Supported by his mentor and pilot Ken, and Ken’s son Thomas, Paul set out to realize his dream. Landing on the island was just
the start. From the base, Paul saw a chance to fly directly to the summit, avoiding a full climb. Launching his paraglider, he gained altitude but couldn’t initially reach the top. Patiently circling in thermals, he waited for the perfect conditions
Hours later, strengthening winds gave him the lift he needed. Using his skill and experience, Paul ascended to the summit, achieving a rare feat: flying straight from base to peak. But conditions turned quickly. Strong winds forced Paul to make a rapid descent, skillfully launching from the summit before it became too dangerous.
This flight was more than a personal victory - it was the realization of a long-held dream and a testament to Paul’s ability to adapt to nature’s rhythm. It showed how patience and understanding of the elements can lead to extraordinary achievements, cementing this adventure as one he’d never forget.
Text: Paul Guschlbauer
Photos: Robin Issartel
Mount St. Augustine GOAL
Stopover in Iliama
COCHAMÓ, CHILE
Magdalena and Leo combine their love for climbing and flying, creating extraordinary adventures that merge two passions into a seamless experience. Each ascent is an intense journey, with rough granite walls and breathtaking views of the valley below. At the summit, they swap climbing gear for their lightweight PACE gliders, launching into the air and soaring effortlessly back to the valley - an indescribable reward for the effort of the climb.
In December 2023, they returned to Patagonia to kick off the new year in El Chaltén. The weather was challenging, offering just one “weather window” for climbing and flying. Making the most of it, Leo climbed Cerro Torre, one of Patagonia’s most iconic peaks, while Magdalena completed a beautiful route on Medialuna in the Cerro Torre massif. With storms rolling in, they decided to move on to Cochamó Valley, often called the “Yosemite of South America,” where two weeks of sunshine promised new opportunities.
Cochamó didn’t disappoint. Towering granite walls framed by dense jungle and rushing rivers provided the perfect playground for their climband-fly adventures. After a three-hour hike with gear transported by packhorses, they set up base camp and began exploring the valley. Magdalena and Leo, who had already scouted launch sites during their previous visit, were among the first to fly paragliders in this remote region. Equipped with their compact PACE gliders, they tackled routes that previously seemed daunting, turning summits into launchpads. Climbing all day, bivouacking
at the top, and gliding down at sunrise became the ultimate experience—a perfect blend of two sports.
In February, Leo took on an ambitious project with climbers Angelino Contessi and Diego Diaz, aiming to establish a new route on Cerro Trinidad.
After days of grueling effort on vertical granite, the team successfully opened “Nunca Say Nunca” (5.12+ / A1 / 1,000m) on Cerro Trinidad Central.
To top it off, Leo flew from the summit back to the valley, completing the adventure in style. Meanwhile, Magdalena ventured further south to Torres del Paine National Park, where she climbed spectacular routes amidst stunning landscapes. Although paragliding is prohibited in the park, she couldn’t help but long for her glider during the long descent back to the valley.
For Magdalena and Leo, the combination of climbing and flying continues to define their most memorable experiences, pushing boundaries and opening new possibilities in some of the most remote and beautiful places on Earth.
CLIMB&FLY
Text: Magdalena Mittersteiner, Leo Gheza
Photos: Patricio Diaz
El Chalten Cochamo
K2 WORLD RECORD
On July 28th at 11:45 a.m., Benjamin Védrine made history as the first person to paraglide from the summit of K2, the world’s second-highest mountain at over 8,600 meters.
“Climbing K2 without oxygen in just 11 hours and paragliding from the summit was a dream come true,” said Védrine, reflecting on the incredible feat. Years of preparation paid off as he soared above glaciers and the notorious Bottleneck serac. “The Karakoram opened the gates of heaven to me,” he added.
Equipped with a 17m² PACE paraglider tailored for high altitudes, Védrine descended safely in a breathtaking 30-minute flight.
This groundbreaking achievement redefines mountaineering, blending speed, innovation, and adventure.
“Thank you, life!” Védrine exclaimed, capturing the joy of an unforgettable day.
Jean-Baptiste Chandelier on Benjamin Védrine: A Historic Flight on K2
“To me, Benjamin Védrine is the greatest legend in mountaineering,” says Jean-Baptiste Chandelier. “He epitomizes speed and excellence like no one else. The way he conquers 8,000-meter peaks faster than anyone is unparalleled. His ascent of K2 without supplemental oxygen in a record time of 10 hours, 59 minutes, and 59 seconds is etched in history.”
«
LIGHTEST GLIDER IN THE WORLD »
Jean-Baptiste Chandelier is a French pro paraglider, video director and paragliding designer who redefines the art of flying with creativity. In collaboration with skywalk, he developed the PACE.
For Benjamin Védrine’s K2 project, he crafted a specialized ultra-light wing designed for the extreme conditions of the ascent.
To support Védrine in this extraordinary challenge, Chandelier designed an ultralightweight paraglider, the Pace K2. Based on skywalk’s PACE model, the wing was taken to its absolute limits to meet the extreme demands of K2. Weighing just 920 grams for the 15m² version and 1 kilogram for the 17m², it is the lightest paraglider in the world.
THE STORY BEHIND
This uncertified wing was engineered for rapid inflation and takeoffs in extreme conditions, enabling safe landings even on challenging terrain. Its controls were tailored to Benjamin’s preferences, ensuring a seamless transition from the ascent to the flight.
However, the wing was so specialized for this mission that it could never be mass-produced or meet standard certifications - it was a one-of-a-kind creation for a one-of-a-kind feat.
Despite initial challenges with one of the wings, Védrine used the 17m² Pace K2 to complete his historic ascent.
While Chandelier anxiously awaited updates, Benjamin endured an 11-hour climb, with the final hour testing his limits. After reaching the K2 summit, exhausted but triumphant, he achieved another milestone by paragliding back down in just 30 minutes.
This ultra-lightwing not only made the descent faster and safer but also fundamentally changed the nature of such extreme expeditions. “Having a paraglider conserved incredible amounts of energy,” Chandelier explains. It reduced the risks associated with long descents, offering a practical and efficient solution for highaltitude mountaineering.
By making such feats more feasible, the combination of climbing and paragliding marks a new era in adventure sports, where innovation and human ambition come together to achieve the impossible.
Text: Luisa Malaj
Photos: Benjamin Vendrine
AJ2MB
Elisa and Magdalena had a dream: to paraglide from the summit of Mont Blanc. Together, they created AJ2MB - A Journey to Mont Blanc, a project that started at Magdalena’s home in Bolzano, Italy.
Their mission was not only to follow their dream but to inspire others to combine sports in creative ways and try new adventures. Over 500 kilometers of cycling and 17,000 meters of climbing pushed their limits, but their passion and teamwork made their dream come true.
What was the biggest challenge for you – physical or mental?
Elisa: The biggest challenge was being in the right place at the right time while staying calm, despite facing rain, storms, and snow over five days of cycling through the Alps. The constantuncertainty and pressure to stick to the plan sometimes caused stress, and in hindsight, a few more breaks might have helped.
You’re both passionate multisport athletes – what fascinates you most about this variety?
Magdalena: We both love exploring new ways to combine our favorite sports. With ultralight paragliders like the PACE, the possibilities are endless – blending activities like cycling and mountaineering to create unique adventures.
Elisa: We both share a passion for combining different sports and pushing boundaries. With ultralight paragliders like the PACE, the possibilities are endless – blending activities like cycling and mountaineering opens up a whole new world of adventure and creativity. It’s this freedom to explore and forge unique paths that inspires us every time.
What planning and preparation were necessary, and what conditions did you ultimately rely on?
Magdalena: Planning was, of course, essential for a project like this. We couldn’t freely choose the timing, as there’s a flight ban on Mont Blanc in July and August. Our plan was to reach Chamonix in time and then, hopefully, catch a good weather window with favorable flying conditions. And everything worked out – shortly after arriving in Chamonix, the forecast looked promising, and we seized our chance!
Elisa: We spent a lot of time planning the route. Starting from Magdalena’s home, we cycled over various passes, including the Oberalp Pass, all the way to Mont Blanc. We constantly monitored weather forecasts using tools like Windy, Burnair, XC Therm, and larger weather patterns, while also speaking with locals and experienced pilots to find the perfect weather window. There was a lot to consider, but in the end, everything fell into place.
2 GIRLS
2 BIKES
2 PARAGLIDERS
What kept you motivated to not give up on your goal despite the challenging weather conditions?
We’re both very determined. Keeping our goal in sight – flying from Mont Blanc – and not wanting to miss our chance during a good weather window motivated us to push on, even in the worst conditions. I also think that we supported and encouraged each other. It’s easier to overcome difficult situations when you’re tackling them as a team!
What role does teamwork play in such an adventure? How do you support each other?
Elisa: Doing this as a team was an unforgettable highlight. We quickly found our rhythm, knowing when to push ahead solo or tackle challenges together. Supporting each other and achieving our goal made the adventure even more special.
Magdalena: Teamwork plays a huge role in a project like this. You share the beautiful moments but also stand by each other during tougher times. Supporting and motivating each other while fulfilling a shared dream is an incredible experience.
Can you describe the feeling when you took off from the summit?
Magdalena: In that moment, I felt freedom, happiness, immense satisfaction, and pure joy – and sharing it all with Elisa made it twice as wonderful!
Elisa: Standing on Mont Blanc and then taking off – it was simply indescribable. It was a moment I had been anticipating for so long. Throughout the journey, there was this tension: “Will it work? Will the conditions allow us to fly?” Then, you’re there, spreading out your wing, lifting off – and suddenly, everything goes quiet. It was pure bliss in that moment.
BIKE & FLY
Text: Luisa Malaj Photos: Elisa Deutschmann, FarFrom
THE HARDEST ROUTE
Imagine you‘re at the peak of your career, with numerous plans and projects in the works. Then one day, during a routine training session, everything changes. You crash, and when you wake up in the hospital, the doctors tell you how lucky you were and warn you of a long road to recovery. You‘re uncertain if you‘ll ever fly again, and the reality sets in that you‘re no longer at the top of your game
How did you feel at the moment of the crash? What was it like for you as a professional athlete to experience a crash?
M: During the crash itself, I was immediately unconscious but woke up shortly after. My first reaction was to calmly and clearly assess the damage and, most importantly, figure out how to get out of the situation. However, once the rescue chain was initiated, many thoughts flooded my mind, both then and during the days in the hospital. Will I be able to fly again? Or even walk? That’s when your entire identity as an athlete hangs in the balance… Everything is uncertain. But I made a decision: I want to do it again! I have to make it work! That gave me a lot of positive energy for the road to recovery. progress and remain mentally strong!
How did you manage to stay mentally strong, especially in moments of uncertainty about whether you would ever fly again?
M: Events like this are unfortunately marked by constant ups and downs, and it’s easy to fall into a depressive state. I focused heavily on setting goals—small, realistic ones. Walking without crutches, completing the first 1 km on foot, my first hike up a mountain, and my first flight. All these were steps towards the overarching goal of fighting my way back. I wrote these goals down and revisited them during depressive phases to stay focused. That helped me avoid losing sight of my progress and remain mentally strong!
What was the biggest challenge during your rehabilitation? Both physically and mentally?
« I WANTED AN ADVENTURE, I GOT ONE »
Markus Anders is a pro paraglider pilot, adventurer, and part of the R&D team at skywalk. He sets new standards in alpine hike-and-fly adventures.
M: Due to the leg length discrepancy, I had to undergo a second surgery after five weeks. Afterward, it felt like starting from scratch. I couldn’t move my leg at all initially and had to „reactivate“ everything and build it up again. Starting over like that is mentally very tough. But if you don’t try to get back up, nothing will ever change...
How did you prepare physically and mentally to participate in the Red Bull X-Alps again? What was important to you to feel competitive as an athlete once more?
M: The most important thing for me was regaining trust in my body and my abilities. I rebuilt my physical fitness with discipline, working closely with trainers and physiotherapists. We then set milestones: participating in a Hike&Fly race, organizing a race myself, and competing as a solo starter in the Rise and Fall relay competition (ski touring, cycling, running, as paragliding was canceled).
Although my specialty was removed, I didn’t expect much given my „handicap,“ but I ended up placing first! In flying, I had to rely on myself. However, with a few new, incredible flights, I managed to become the German champion in cross-country flying. That kind of success naturally boosts your confidence tremendously!
How did you deal with the fear of having another accident when you started flying again?
M: After such an event, fear is a logical reaction. For me, it was crucial to work through the accident thoroughly with a sports psychologist. Understanding why it happened allowed me to see it as a learning opportunity.
The key is transforming fear into a kind of healthy respect—an „inner warning system“ that helps you stay 100% alert and focused, especially when pushing your limits.
The Red Bull X-Alps is known as one of the toughest Hike & Fly races in the world. How did it feel to compete in the race again, especially after everything you went through?
M: Simply participating was an enormously important milestone for me. By taking part, I essentially defined my goal of fighting my way back into professional sports. However, I knew I wasn’t at 100% fitness when the race started. My team and I focused entirely on running our own race. I think this approach worked well because it ended up being my most successful participation in the X-Alps so far.
What does „the hardest route“ mean to you, and what message do you want to convey with your film?
M: The X-Alps routes are becoming increasingly longer and more challenging. But in the end, it’s not just about the 12 days in the Alps—it’s about the entire process: preparation, finding resources, tackling personal and physical challenges, and, of course, the motivation to push through daily training in all kinds of weather.
Text: Markus Anders Photos: Markus Anders
WANDER BIRD
Three years ago, Paul Guschlbauer and Aaron Durogati turned their shared vision into reality with Wanderbird. They set out to create more than just another competition. Wanderbird was designed to offer a new kind of experience – a mindful blend of flying, nature, and self-discovery. It’s not about extreme sports or chasing records; it’s about gentle, curious exploration: smooth and wondering. It offers people the chance to explore their own paths while feeling connected to the world around them.
The year 2024 marks a turning point and a period of transformation. Paul has decided to focus on promoting the sport and is stepping back from the X-Alps, while Aaron is embracing the challenge and will compete in the Red Bull X-Alps 2025. These contrasting paths embody what Wanderbird is all about: creating space for personal journeys and opening up new horizons. Wanderbird’s international presence continues to grow. The year began in Rio de Janeiro and will culminate with a special finale in Mexico.
Today, Wanderbird has become the largest Hike & Fly platform in the world. With a total of ten events, it offers a gathering place for people eager to discover the joy of flying or deepen their experiences. What makes Wanderbird special is its atmosphere of inclusivity – a place where everyone feels welcome, from seasoned pilots to beginners. It’s not just about climbing mountains or flying; it’s about creating connections –with nature, with others, and with yourself. Behind the scenes, a small, dedicated team brings the Wanderbird vision to life every day. Paul is the creative force, shaping ideas and driving the evolution of the platform. Patrick ensures smooth operations, managing the website and organizational processes. Max takes care of Wanderbird’s public presence, handling photography, social media, and media coordination. Together, they have built something truly unique: a sustainable, vibrant platform that is redefining the Hike & Fly sport and inspiring people around the globe.
This year also introduces new formats that carry forward the spirit of Wanderbird. The Wanderbird Podcast « Find Your Path!» serves as a platform for stories, inspiration, and insights into how flying and hiking can enrich everyday life.
At the same time, Paul is working on his book, “Wanderbird Strategy,” which will be unveiled in the spring and released in the summer of 2025. It offers a deep dive into the philosophy and strategy that have made Wanderbird what it is today.
Looking ahead to 2025, Wanderbird plans to build on the successes of this year. New events are being planned in different regions to grow the community even further. There will also be a stronger focus on making Hike & Fly more inclusive, with programs designed to support beginners and reach new audiences. Sustainability will remain a priority, as Wanderbird works to protect the natural environments that make this sport so special. The release of “Wanderbird Strategy” will also inspire more people to explore the ideas and values that have made Wanderbird what it is today.
Wanderbird has become more than a series of events – it’s a community and a movement. In 2024, it brought people together from around the world to share the joy of flying and the beauty of nature. As it looks to the future, Wanderbird will continue to inspire, grow, and create opportunities for people to find their own path in the sky and beyond.
Text: Luisa Malaj Photos: Robin Issartel
BECOME A WANDERBIRD
Herausgeber: Skywalk Gmbh & Co. KG Windeckstraße 4, 83250 Marquartstein
E-Mail: info@skywalk.org
IMPRESSUM