We fly Paragliders–—designed originally for gliding. Soaring, that is, without a motor. But the motor grants airtime when otherwise there might be none as shown by member Phil Russman on a well-known soaring ridge in Mexico. The site requires either a half-mile hike up a 700 foot ridge, enduring an hour-long bumpy drive around the back, or a 4 minute flight up in the paramotor. Tough choice.

Of course these mountain-type harnesses carry significantly more risk due to the lack of back protection, but they can fit in most motor harnesses carrying pouches or be worn while motoring.

Fly to the top, see if it’s soarable by idling the motor, then if it is, land and strap on the free-flight harness. When you’ve had your fill, strap on the motor and go home. Elegant.