About ParaglidingShop Europe
ParaglidingShop Europe is a specialist technical paragliding equipment business based near Keswick, Cumbria, in the English Lake District National Park and close to the Scottish border. The business was founded in 1993 by Patrick Holmes and operates from an office and warehouse at the Blencathra Business Centre, distributing some of the world’s best paragliding, paramotor and free flight brands to a network of schools, retailers and instructors.
We currently distribute Gin Gliders, Skywalk Paragliders, NEO harnesses, helmets and accessories, Flymaster Avionics, JDC Skywatch instruments, Stodeus solar paragliding instruments, Peguet (Maillon Rapides), Austrialpin hardware, and others.
Our aim is to offer the best products combined with the best service possible. We have close relationships with our suppliers and are regularly involved in product conception, design and improvement. Our staff are experienced and professional, but friendly and approachable — whether you’re a World Champion or a complete beginner, you’ll receive the same level of customer care.
If you’re not sure what you need, get in touch — call us on 01768 779800, Monday–Friday, 9.30am–5.00pm.
Staff profiles
Patrick Holmes — Founder
Started the business in 1993 after working in the paragliding industry since 1989, including as a development pilot and technical consultant for Edel Paragliders. British Champion in 1994, XC League Champion in 1998, ranked 3rd in the World in 1993, and an FIA Silver team medallist in Japan in 1995. No longer competing, but still flying around the Lake District and snow kiting — currently loving the GTO3.
Mark Stuart
Helps with all aspects of the business and has worked in paragliding since 1991, first flying in 1988. Taught paragliding and distributed equipment to UK schools before joining Patrick in 1998 to help distribute the newly established Gin Gliders brand. Currently flying a GIN Yeti 6.
Richard Bungay
Joined in 2016 as our technical guru for instruments and electronics. Flying since 1999 and competing since 2004, Richard helped organise the British Championships and was Steve Nash’s team mate and flying support at the Red Bull X-Alps in 2011 and 2015. Semi-retired since April 2024 but still available for technical enquiries.
Nadja Sharman
Joined in 2024 and works part time, looking after social media and office support alongside running her own translation company.