Test of the Race Up Neo paragliding harness
The cocoon harness market is booming in 2026, and Neo is making a strong statement with the Race UP. I had the opportunity to test this new flagship model from the Annecy-based brand to share my full feedback after several hours of flying at Saint Hilaire du Touvet. The harness tested was size M.
Between technical innovation, improved glide performance and enhanced piloting comfort, find out whether the Race UP is the “game changer” you’ve been waiting for.
First impression: build quality put to the test on the scale
When opening the box, the Race UP immediately stands out with its compactness. It comes with its transport net (like the Stay Up), a choice by Neo that we always appreciate for taking care of the equipment.
Weight
Announced at 2.2 kg by Neo, the harness lives up to its promise with a measured weight on the scale of 2,160 g including carabiners. This places the Race UP among the top-tier durable lightweight harnesses.
Durability
The Ripstop Dyneema fabric, widely used throughout the structure, immediately inspires confidence in the product’s durability. Unlike some “disposable” competitors, Neo focuses on equipment designed to withstand multiple hike & fly seasons.
Clarity
No frills. Every element is easily identifiable, and it quickly becomes clear what each strap and adjustment is for. A significant advantage considering how some of the latest harnesses have become quite complex in terms of setup.
Setup and ergonomics on a simulator frame
Before takeoff, a session on the simulator frame is essential. The setup is smooth: a single attachment point is enough to close the cocoon thanks to the patented Stand Up Rescue System. Once suspended, everything falls naturally into place.
A redesigned chassis and seat
The chassis has undergone a thorough redesign. The seat is, in my opinion, extremely comfortable, and the adjustments have been simplified to suit a wide range of body types. Two fiberglass rods help maintain the backrest shape, preventing any uncomfortable folds against the pilot’s back.
Koroyd protection: safety and volume
This is a strong choice by Neo: using Koroyd technology for back protection. While it ensures excellent shock absorption and precise support in flight, it does impact packing volume. Once the reserve is installed, the Race UP is slightly bulkier than a Skywalk Range X-Alps or a Niviuk Arrow 2 P. However, it remains a lightweight product that fits perfectly into a 70 to 90-liter backpack with a competition wing.
Cockpit and storage: Designed for bivouac flying
The Race UP cockpit is a true masterpiece of aerodynamics. Neo integrates an aerodynamic jacket that fits around the pilot’s arms, preventing air from entering from the top of the cocoon.
• Technical jacket: It is fastened with two simple zips. While the handling may seem technical at first, it quickly becomes intuitive, even in flight.
• Instruments: The velcro surface is generous. It easily accommodates a Sys Nav XL paired with a phone, or a standalone flight tablet.
• Storage: This is one of its strong points. With two large side pockets on the cocoon, three pockets on the jacket, a large rear pocket, and a storage space under the seat, you have everything needed for autonomy. Although it doesn’t reach the volume of a Kortel Kolibri, there is plenty of space for bivouac equipment.
In-flight behavior analysis
Once in the air, the Race UP reveals its true character. The first striking sensation is its stability. It filters out unnecessary turbulence, transmitting only the essential information to the pilot.
Once in the air, the Race UP reveals its true character. The first striking sensation is its stability. It filters out unnecessary turbulence, transmitting only the essential information to the pilot.
Performance, speedbar and glide
The balance between handling and safety is ensured by a classic ABS system on the seat. In strong, tight thermal conditions, I noticed that it could be slightly more roll-sensitive to facilitate engagement in tight turns. However, during transitions, this stability becomes a major advantage: there is no need to tighten the chest strap to fly straight.
An exceptional speed system
During more “committed” maneuvers, the Hiko shows good stability. Partial collapses reopen naturally, the stall is progressive and easy to manage. The profile provides solid pitch stability, which inspires confidence.
This behavior aligns perfectly with Niviuk’s positioning of the Hiko.
The pursuit of glide performance: advanced aerodynamics
The fairing (rear profile) of the Race UP is longer and taller than on models such as the Delight 5. It extends up to the top of the pilot’s head. Combined with the near-airtight sealing of the skirt thanks to magnets, this setup provides a noticeable performance gain.
Key figure:
There is an improvement of approximately 0.3 to 0.4 glide points compared to a standard cocoon harness. This detail makes the Race UP a harness positioned between lightweight and pressurized cocoon designs such as “Submarine”.
Points to watch: landing
The magnetic closure system of the skirt is remarkably efficient: the magnets align perfectly at takeoff without any manual intervention. However, these magnets are powerful. During landing, opening the cocoon nose may feel tight. It is essential to anticipate the exit and practice at altitude to give the necessary “kick” to free the opening and avoid being caught off guard when touching down.
Conclusion: Why choose the Neo Race UP?
The Race UP is not just a simple update of the Stay UP. It is a harness that combines durability, long-term comfort and aerodynamic performance that is rare for this weight.
• Who is it for? : Experienced cross-country pilots, bivouac flying enthusiasts and hike & fly competitors looking for a harness that is more robust and comfortable than a Range X-Alps.
• My final verdict: It’s the game changer of the category in 2026. It’s sleek, high-performing and, above all, it requires no compromise on comfort.
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