PD Reserve 218

Performance Designs (PD) produces two primary reserve canopies:

The classic PD Reserve a 7-cell canopy with a 30-year track record of reliability, and the PD Optimum  which uses a low-bulk fabric to pack smaller and offer improved flare power.

Performance Designs Reserve Models

Performance Designs PD Reserve

Features: Known as the best-selling canopy of all time, it is engineered for dependability and predictable handling. It features a 7-cell construction and is built with F-111 type fabric.

Review Highlights: Users on Gravity skydive  and Reddit describe it as a “real workhorse” with a strong reputation for safe landings, though some note it may have less flare power than modern sport main canopies.

Sizes: Available in 99, 106, 113, 126, 143, 160, 176, 193, 218, 235, 253, and 281 sq ft.

Performance Designs Optimum Reserve

Features: Uses a proprietary low-bulk 30 denier fabric that allows it to pack approximately one size smaller than traditional reserves. It is designed to fly and land more like a main parachute.

Review Highlights: Reviewers at Gravity praise its incredible flare and stopping power. Some riggers caution that the thinner fabric requires careful handling to avoid snags.

Technical Specifications & Performance

Fabric: The classic model uses standard F-111 fabric, while the
Optimum uses specialized low-permeability, low-bulk fabric.

Certification: Both models are tested well beyond the maximum weight and speed limits required for TSO C23d certification.
Line Options: Typically equipped with Microline or Dacron lines.

Soft Links: PD offers Slinks (soft links) as an option for attaching reserves, which have survived loading tests beyond the failure point of suspension lines

PD Reserve 218
PD Reserve 218
PD Reserve 218