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Para-Phernalia

Maker of Softie pilot emergency parachutes since 1979

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About Para-Phernalia

Para-Phernalia, Inc. has designed and manufactured the Softie line of pilot emergency parachutes since 1979. Located in the north-east quadrant of Arlington Municipal Airport (KAWO) in Arlington, Washington, the company describes its emergency parachutes as known worldwide for quality, comfort and reliability, and it sells through an international network of distributors as well as directly, with in-stock systems listed on its website.

Softie parachute systems

  • Emergency bailout systems made up of a parachute canopy and a harness and container system, offered in weight-limit classes of 180 lb, 240 lb and 275 lb; the company stresses that pilots must choose a canopy rated for their weight plus whatever they carry and must not exceed system limits
  • A choice of conventional harness with a fully adjustable main lift web, or an exclusive crossover-style aerobatic harness that moves the leg strap hardware away from the hips to relieve the pressure caused by high negative-g manoeuvres
  • Hardware options including B-12 snaps as standard leg hardware, thread-through adapters as the flattest and lightest connectors, quick ejector snaps for one-hand disconnection, a shoulder adapter and a thread-through chest buckle
  • A model recommendation guide by aircraft type on the website, with the company inviting pilots to call to identify the right Softie system for their aircraft

Service and safety

Para-Phernalia provides full support for Softie systems, including inspections, repacks, minor and major repairs, alterations and advice, and it publishes care guidance such as storing parachutes in a bag in a ventilated area away from sunlight, oils and acids. Its site links to FAA parachute safety explanations by a master rigger, Allen Silver's bailout preparation tips and EAA bailout seminars, and highlights the Lima Lima Flight Team among Softie users. A Softie community page celebrates owners and enthusiasts, who are invited to submit photos.

Shows

Para-Phernalia appears in the exhibitor lists of AERO Friedrichshafen 2027 and EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2027.

Contact

Arlington Municipal Airport (KAWO), Arlington, Washington, United States, phone +1 360 435 7220 or toll-free 800 877 9584
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Location

Arlington Municipal Airport, Arlington, Washington, United States

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Shows where Para-Phernalia exhibits or has exhibited

All aviation events
2
events
2
countries
0
as sponsor
  • AERO Friedrichshafen

    AERO Friedrichshafen

    Exhibited in 2026. Next edition 14 to 17 April 2027 · Friedrichshafen, Germany

    Stand A5-108 (2026)2026 list; 2027 not published yet

    View event
  • EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

    EAA AirVenture Oshkosh

    26 July to 1 August 2027 · Oshkosh, United States

    Exhibitor

    View event

From the organisers’ published exhibitor and sponsor lists.

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