BASE Specific Canopies

BASE Specific Canopies

For those that are new to the sport of BASE the terms "FOX" and "Mojo" may sound like code names or some reference that brands a particular jumper. Its is often heard "Is that a Mojo or a FOX?". Those intimately involved in the sport know it is the new era of BASE canopies.

There are many other manufacturers of equipment around all brandishing their wares and out to convince the novice jumper that their equipment is sound and state of the art. The reason why I am only discussing the FOX and Mojo are that these canopies come from the two largest BASE manufacturers in the world whose core business is
production of BASE equipment. These are the two dominant canopies used by competitors in all the International Pro Base Circuit competitions and by experienced jumpers worldwide. Both manufacturers, Basic Research (BR) and Consolidated Rigging (CR), have put a great deal of work in developing the equipment to where it is today and have helped revolutionise the activity of BASE jumping to a high level sport. Their gear is specifically designed for BASE.

Both canopies are manufactured in the United States, and come in a wide range of incremental sizes. They are all seven cell, come with tail pockets, reinforced bridle attachment or attachments, are commonly F111 and appear not to have any new special features that make them outstanding from converted skydive gear or other
manufacturers equipment. However, the differences are subtle yet fundamental to continued safe jumping.

Why a BASE canopy? Well converted skydive gear, which is very functional, does not come with the reinforcing of a BASE canopy. Seams, bridle attachment points and line attachment points are all reinforced for added safety on the BASE gear and to take the hard openings resulting from slider off jumps.

Both the FOX and Mojo are excellent state-of-the-art BASE canopies. The differences in flying characteristics between them are subtle and there are far more difference when playing with canopy sizes.

Both manufacturers will provide very helpful advice and good after sales service. A few things to bear in mind though. Don't expect anything in a hurry. If you order custom colours or request additional items you may be in for a wait. It will get there, but both manufacturers are swamped with orders. Plan in advance, don't try and get something two weeks before an overseas trip. And while I have only discussed canopies, both manufacturers will give better deals on a complete package.



To get further info, go to their websites;

Consolidated Rigging - www.crmojo.com

Basic Research - www.basicresearch.com