Is it ever better to start from the bottom of a slope instead of the top? When, Why?

From : Joe Hahn

Hi Mike.

There is one time I know of that it is ALWAYS better---that is when there is an active roadway at the top!! We have a couple of slopes on dam sites locally which leave us no choice. I prefer launching from the top, always, whenever I can. This gives you a chance to get into the lift band with some altitude, if nothing else. In very good conditions on known slopes with known lift bands, it isn't quite as important, but I still like the extra altitude. I also dislike looking upward at high angles for long periods of time if I don't have to. Stiff neck-itis gets me. The perspective from the bottom is weird, too--it's tough to judge just exactly how high above the top you are, making close-to-the-hill maneuvering difficult. Heaven help you if you fly out of sight on the backside of the hill while standing at the bottom!! My recommendation---don't do it if you can avoid it.

Joe Hahn
DJ Aerotech