Rook 4 review / Parapente mag

Yet another raving review of our Rook 4! Parapente Mag took Rook 4 to the sky, and here is what they wrote:

𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗣𝗟𝗘 𝗦𝗘𝗩𝗘𝗡 𝗥𝗢𝗢𝗞 𝟰
The Slovenian brand, developed by the Valic brothers, offers us the chance to test their latest EN-B+ paraglider, the Rook 4. This semi-light wing (4 kg in size M) features winglets and the latest-generation unsheathed lines (Magic Pro Edelrid).
Flight test, as conditions are still good in Saint-André-les-Alpes!
Available in four sizes, the Rook 4 is positioned in the Triple Seven range between the Knight 2 (EN-B) and the Queen 3 (EN-C). It predominantly uses Porcher fabrics (27g for the lower surface, 38g for the leading edge, and MJ32MF for the upper surface). The pronounced arc increases its tension thanks to two winglets placed at the outer third of each half-wing and is stiffened with thin-diameter PA 11 polyamide crossed rods.
The unsheathed line setup consists of three lower lines (four under the arc) over three levels, leading to risers (A2 A’1 B3 C3) that are both thin and rigid, with integrated Polarwave pulleys and neoprene protection. The semi-rigid padded brake handles include an additional control handle between B and C for rear-riser steering. Loops on the C-risers’ maillons allow for easy trim adjustments. The craftsmanship is excellent, showcasing great control of the Aerodynamics production chain in Sri Lanka (now with laser cutting). The leading edge features a smooth, tensioned shark nose design.
𝗙𝗶𝗿𝘀𝘁 𝗜𝗻𝗳𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
The brake pressure creates a homogeneous airfoil, enhanced by mini-ribs, with more pronounced control at the centre than at the wingtips.any hard points or a tendency to drop back. No shooting forward either, even with a more aggressive pull. The inflation is easy and very accessible.
The brake pressure creates a homogeneous airfoil, enhanced by mini-ribs, with more pronounced control at the centre than at the wingtips.
Here I am, turning alongside Jojo (the site’s resident vulture), moving very slowly in a weak, inconsistent lift. The wing responds with goldsmith-level precision. A quarter-hour spent hovering near takeoff, feet almost touching the cliffs, working the weak lift with 20 meters gained, 15 lost—a fine, technical flight made easy by the Rook 4.As always, I’m happy to be airborne. Immediate lift and a sense of stability on all axes, with no excessive roll. The brake inputs are firm, direct, and responsive, with a linear range of motion. A small effort is enough for an instant turn initiation
When flying at very low speeds near stall, I deliberately push past the control range in a tight turn. The right wing immediately moves back, but the lightening of the brakes prompts a quick return to neutral—no issue, great wing behavior, and no tendency to enter a negative spin.
Finally, the thermal strengthens, and I climb above takeoff.
𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 & 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗲𝗱𝗯𝗮𝗿
With hands up (or rather semi-up, as the B-C steering handles are a bit low), I engage the speedbar. Smooth as butter, thanks to the pulleys. The wing tracks like it’s on rails, very stable. Flying fully accelerated, I gain 12 km/h, staying just above the ridge—heading toward the Allier antennas.
The Rook 4 has an excellent glide ratio and remains comfortable despite turbulence (things are really heating up now!). The first strong thermal confirms the wing’s precision and efficiency.
𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗕𝗲𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗼𝗿 & 𝗣𝗹𝗮𝘆𝗳𝘂𝗹𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀A small low-speed test—symmetrical braking for a top-landing on the Allier meadows. The wing communicates just enough, and the parachutal effect before stall is effective. Hands up, and I’m off again for some wingovers. The Rook 4 handles them well, with a sharp energy return and precise weight-shift control. Impressive for a B!
𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝘁𝗼 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗼𝗳𝗳
A fast return with full bar, flying on the rear risers with hands on the control handles (which feel a bit low for my taste). Controlling pitch oscillations in this position isn’t very effective—but is that really what this progression wing is designed for?
The game continues along the slopes, in conditions that range from weak to strong depending on the area. The wing’s behavior and solidity deserve real praise. I didn’t experience the slightest hint of a collapse. The Rook 4 feels solid, reliable, and fun to fly—never boring or complicated.
𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗲𝗻𝘁 & 𝗟𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴
Back to the landing field with a big series of 360s—dropping from the sky at over -10 m/s. Effective, but take it easy if it’s your first time! Exiting the spiral requires coordinated weight shift and brake input for a smooth recovery.
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻
Landing is a breeze, with the option of a strong flare or a smooth final float. The Rook 4 never faltered, offering an excellent sink rate, handling, glide, solidity, and performance sufficient for all types of flights.
A fantastic toy that enables beautiful, serene, and comfortable flights.