Balloon Flying Menu > Introduction to Ballooning > Choosing A Balloon > Balloon Brands

The level of after-sales service available—locally and from the manufacturer—is an important criterion in deciding which brand of balloon you should purchase. Talk to local pilots and ask questions. How does the local balloon repair station feel about different brands? Do they stock parts for only one brand? Does the manufacturer ship parts and fabric for balloons already in the field, or do they reserve these parts and fabric for new production? Will your balloon be grounded for lack of materials while new balloons are being built?

There are other criteria that could be considered, such as altitude at which the balloon will be flying, climate, and interchangeability of components, to give some examples. Before making your final decision, talk to people with different kinds of balloons and who do different kinds of flying. Crewing for different balloons is an excellent way to learn about the various kinds of balloons. Crewing on different balloons may help you decide on your first balloon purchase.