What is the quickest and safest way to change heading immediately after opening?

The safest and quickest way to change heading immediately after opening is by performing a rear riser turn with the brakes still set. This method allows for a controlled turn that minimizes the risk of stalling the canopy or entering an undesirable flight characteristic.

When you utilize rear risers while maintaining brake tension, you can initiate a turn without significantly altering your altitude or risking a nose-down position. This is particularly important just after deployment when the canopy is still stabilizing, and there is a need for extra control. Using rear risers keeps the canopy flying efficiently, allowing for a gradual and safer change in heading.

Other methods, such as turning with front risers, can increase airspeed too drastically, potentially leading to a hard turn that might cause instability or even a more severe incident if not executed properly. Steering toggles could also lead to excessive altitude loss if used abruptly, especially during the initial phase after opening. Making a 180-degree turn at this stage typically requires more altitude and can increase the chances of making a hard landing if executed improperly.

Thus, utilizing rear risers with brakes engaged strikes a balance between control and efficiency, making it the preferred choice for heading changes immediately after opening.