APCO Vista VI vs APCO Nestra Light
Middle B or high-end B — the calm step-up wing versus the only true 2.5-liner in the B class.
The Vista VI is APCO's middle B: calm, safe, easy to fly, for the step out of the A class. The Nestra Light is APCO's high-end EN-B: per the manufacturer 'C level performance in the EN-B category', as the only true 2.5-liner in the B class to date, from 4.35 kg, with only 215 m of lines.
Quick compare
| Criterion | APCO Vista VI | APCO Nestra Light |
|---|---|---|
| Certification | EN B (Intermediate) | EN B |
| Position (manufacturer) | Middle B for pilots stepping up | High-end B: 'C level performance … with real life B level safety' |
| Liner concept | 3 rows (C-steering optional) | TRUE 2.5-liner — per APCO the only one in the B class |
| Cells | 49–54 | 59–61 |
| Aspect ratio | 5.3–5.8 | 5.75–6.0 |
| Area | 24.8–29.3 m² | 22.4–27.12 m² |
| Canopy weight | 4.6–5.4 kg | from 4.35 kg |
| All-up weight (free) | 55–130 kg | 50–110 kg |
| Total line length | — | only 215 m |
| V-min / V-trim / V-max | 21 / 39 / 51+ km/h | 23 / 39 / 52+ km/h |
| Min. sink | 0.95 m/s | — |
How APCO positions the two
- Vista VI — “APCO’s middle B, designed for talented beginners or pilots who wish to step up to the B category with a very calm, safe and easy wing to fly”. In its 6th generation, with strengths especially in strong conditions.
- Nestra Light — “APCO’s all new high end EN-B. A true cross country machine offering C level performance in the EN-B category with real life B level safety for any pilot looking for the best this category can deliver.”
Both EN B — but the opposite ends of the class.
What makes the Nestra Light special
The technology list comes directly from the manufacturer:
- TRUE 2.5-liner — “the only wing in the B category to date”
- Only 215 m of lines — “less than new generation EN-C 2-liners”
- Kevlar/aramid competition lines — stable in length over their lifespan, “no periodical trimming needed”
- Embedded hook-up points for the cleanest, most aerodynamic line-to-canopy connection
- Flow Aligned Ribs and risers supported by ball-bearing pulleys (C-steering included)
- Lightweight: from 4.35 kg including standard risers
What makes the Vista VI special
The Vista VI relies on classic, predictable construction: it “excels in strong conditions with its solidity and homogenous feeling”, reassures the pilot and, per APCO, builds confidence for continuous XC progress. Two riser options: C-steering (recommended for pilots stepping up from an A wing) or the standard 3-line riser.
Recommendation
Vista VI for the step out of the A class — per APCO 'a very calm, safe and easy wing to fly', with solidity especially in strong conditions and the C-steering option for building skills.
To the APCO Vista VI →Nestra Light for pilots who want the maximum of the B class — 'a true cross country machine offering C level performance in the EN-B category with real life B level safety'.
To the APCO Nestra Light →