Description
The F*Race2 is an ultra-light hike & fly pod harness. The development was guided by our most demanding team pilots. At just 1.62kg in size M, it is a no-compromise approach for pilots who are pushing the limits of adventure flying, in a comparably durable and comfortable package.
Although its comfort and accessibility exceed standards in this category, it is not recommended as a first pod harness. That said, you don’t need to compete in the X-Alps to fly it. The overall comfort and durability make it an excellent choice for an everyday harness for pilots in need of a compact hike & fly setup to access more remote take-offs, or for convenient and lightweight travel with a highly XC-capable harness.
It is definitely durable for the category, but please note that this is a light harness which should be handled with the normal amount of care and attention you give your light wings.
The F*Race 2’s innovative structure is based on an ergonomic Dyneema pattern that has been designed for anatomic support. The longest ever X-Alps flight was completed in this harness structure by Damien Lacaze, who reported that it treated him well for over 11 hours.
Each side of the pod features large easy-access pockets for cameras and equipment. The high volume rear compartment has a hydration bladder sleeve, and pole stowage, in addition to the large under-seat compartment. The cockpit pocket stores batteries easily. A removable cockpit is ideal for larger instruments, which can be connected to a chest pocket for extra in-flight storage.
The front mounted reserve compartment is well-integrated with an easily accessible handle, and the rescue bridles are connected at the shoulders.
A new inflatable protection system features an innovative inner compartmented design which is more efficient. It is also quick to setup – during a hike & fly race, every second counts, and a new 50 gram pump provides rapid inflation. The protector can also be inflated using the bag which comes standard. A dump valve allows rapid deflation. An inflation tube is accessible in-flight.
The F*Race 2 is certified to EN 1651-2018 standard for pilots up to 110kg. The inflatable protector spans from thighs to above lumbar and is certified with a peak impact rating of less than 32 g.
Clip-in is fast thanks to one fixed leg-strap, which doubles as an anti-forget system, and only 4 closing steps (including the optional upper-chest strap). Ground handling is trouble-free thanks to the flexible nature of the structure – increasing mobility on tricky take-offs. Cleverly positioned EVA foam and reinforcements eliminate pressure points.
In flight, weight-shift is effective and well-tempered, and the stabilising system (with optional adjustable ABS) is comfortable in turbulence. A large rear fairing profile and smooth pod improve glide and stability.
Pilot Review by
This is the logical evolution of the version I flew during the X-Alps 2023. More comfortable, more durable, more sophisticated. I’ve been pushing a lot of feedback to the R&D team for details that are important to me, and I’m happy they have listened to it.
Easy to clip-in: You can use it as hike and fly racing harness, a volbiv or an everyday harness. Personally, I leave all the buckles closed and put it on to save time during races. But you can keep the classic method.
The removable large cockpit with a chest pocket is a real plus and means you can leave your instruments attached to it and take the whole thing with you (for charging all up for instance). The chest pocket will easily accommodate the power bank and food for the flight.
The deflation of the airbag is now also very fast thanks to an additional high-flow valve (inflation is of course very fast too). And an external pipe allows to adjust pressure in flight, should you need it.
Comfort is really incredible for a harness this weight, thanks to the ergonomic design of the seat and the rigidity of the back. I flew in it for 11 hours without feeling the slightest discomfort. A harness for “almost” everything!
Damien Lacaze, adventure and X-Alps pilot
Specifications
| SIZE |
|---|
| Weight (kg)* |
| Total weight (kg)** |
| Pilot Height Range (cm) |
| S | M | L |
|---|---|---|
| 1.520 | 1.620 | 1.720 |
| 1.710 | 1.810 | 1.910 |
| 155 – 170 | 165 – 185 | 180 – 200 |
* Weights may vary up to 50g per size due to slight variations in the manufacturing of the fabric used. Weight includes the harness-riser Xlite connectors.
** Includes all accessories
Packing size: 450 x 320 x 120 mm (M size all equipped, including Angel SQ Pro 100)
Rescue container volume 3L (min.) – 5L (max.)
Included accessories:
- Xlite Connect (compatible with Edelrid Aura carabiners)
- Integrated rescue bridles
- Inflatable protector (320g)
- Battery powered micro pump (50g)
- Inflating/packing bag (60g)
- 3-step light speedbar (40g)
- Cockpit and chest pocket (140g)
S & W Verdict
“New version of the F Race, we are very excited to see this in the flesh. Looks like some major updates, we think this will be popular!”
