01/09/2026
If you are looking for WS stress free canopy... Omicron.
Please see my 5 cents in this subject:
My Experience with the Squirrel Omicron
I was hesitant to try it for a long time because, based on my past skydiving experience (28 years in the sport), I was against F111 or similar low-porosity fabrics. Historically, there was a good reason why everyone moved to ZP: more lift power, longer lifespan, etc. Ease of packing was never a deciding factor for me.
However, based on my observations, I decided to increase my canopy size from 150 to 170. In my container, originally built for a 135 (ZP 9-cell) to 150 (7-cell LPV). I managed to fit the Omicron 170. This is the absolute maximum, taking a conservative approach to safety; nothing larger would fit safely.
My experience with other hybrid wingsuit canopies completely changed my mind regarding the lift generated by a canopy made partly out of low-porosity fabric.
For many years, I flew only 7 cell 150s of various models at a wing loading of approximately 1.65+. I noticed that while the openings were good, there was always room for improvement. Landings were always snappy and fast, which I enjoyed given my past swooping experience. But occasionally as happens in parachute sports, something wouldn't go as planned, and that higher wing loading added stress rather than helping.
As I’ve gotten older, I've realized one thing: making skydiving completely stress-free is my main goal. During my visits to US wingsuit events, I observed many landings and performances on Epicenes and Omicrons. I spoke to Joseph Webb, Caleb Brown, and a few other pilots about their impressions. Finally, combining my hybrid canopy experience with the positive feedback from others, I gave the Omicron a try. I wanted solid flare power, peaceful openings, and a small pack volume to fit my container.
After a few dozen jumps, I can say only one thing: the Omicron delivers on all fronts. I’m not sure how much of the improvement comes from increasing the size from 150 to 170 (wing loading ~1.55), but it doesn't matter. I’ve increased my safety margin with a larger canopy, haven't lost the fun in my landing flare, in zero wind condition no more need to run before full stop and of course the openings are brilliant. I couldn't ask for anything more. If the Epicene Pro has an even better opening, I can’t imagine what we’re talking about!
As fabric design, most ware out space is on the center cell when people are pushing air out when packing and in this place is made full ZP so, no issue at all.
Bottom line: if you are looking for a stress-free wingsuit canopy, the Omicron will make you very happy.
My owned canopy Progression & History:
"Talka" (Талка) 250
PD Spectre 190
PD Stiletto 150 (1 cutaway)
PDF Springo 120
PD Vengeance 120 (used with BirdMan GTI)
PD Katana 120 (used with BirdMan GTI)
PD Velocity 103 (used with BirdMan GTI)
PD Storm 150 (used with Squirrel Swift + Skysnatch 26; 1 cutaway)
2x Aerodyne Pilot7 143 (used with Squirrel ATC & Freak + Skysnatch 30; 1 cutaway)
Atair WinX 150 Hybrid (used with Squirrel Freak & Creature + Skysnatch 30)
Squirrel Omicron 170 (used with Squirrel Freak + Skysnatch 30)
Generally, I’ve flown more models, but I prefer flying my own so nothing surprises me as I progress.
Pure Omicron openings: https://youtu.be/JS3kJIgOP-Y?si=FETirhxWeJbMzOHc
The Omicron is a hybrid-sail 7-cell ultra-low-bulk parachute for wingsuit skydiving.
