Choosing the right landing gear or leg extension for your RC aircraft matters: it protects the airframe, gimbal and electronics, improves takeoffs and landings on rough surfaces, and can extend the life of your model. These recommendations are based on hands-on testing, close comparison of specs, and synthesis of expert and user feedback to identify dependable options across budgets and platforms.
How we tested and what we considered
Research & real-world testing: We researched manufacturer specs, compatibility lists and customer feedback for each candidate. Where possible we inspected build quality, fit, installation ease, and performed practical checks (clearance gain, balance, and installation/removal) on representative models.
Key considerations (how they influenced rankings):
- Compatibility — Fit is the single most important factor. We prioritized parts tailored to specific models (e.g., Mini, Air, Mavic series) or clearly universal designs.
- Ground clearance & protection — Measured or reported height increase (mm/cm) and how well the gear keeps sensitive parts away from debris and moisture.
- Weight and flight impact — Added mass matters for small craft. We favored lightweight designs that avoid changing flight characteristics.
- Materials & durability — Sturdy plastics, ABS or reinforced composites score higher than thin, flexible parts that can break on impact.
- Installation & maintenance — Quick-release or tool-free installs earned extra points; included hardware was a bonus.
- Value & pricing — We balanced cost against actual protection and longevity.
Expert & consumer feedback: We aggregated consistent themes from user reviews—common failure modes, fit issues, and praise for durability—to validate what we observed in testing.
Our final picks aim to span different use cases: lightweight height extenders for Minis, model-specific landing gear for Air/Air 3S, OEM-style replacement legs for Mavic 3, and brand-specific sets for vintage/scale models.
Mini Landing Extensions
Compact, lightweight foldable leg extenders designed for DJI Mini series. Made of ABS, they add about 1.5 cm clearance to protect gimbal and belly sensors from dust, water and debris while keeping weight to a minimum—ideal for casual flyers who need inexpensive protection.
What it is
A low-cost, foldable leg extension designed for DJI Mini-series aircraft to raise height ~1.5 cm, keeping the fuselage, gimbal and props clear of debris.
Standout features
- Lightweight ABS construction (~12.2 g) minimizes impact on flight time.
- Foldable design preserves portability and doesn't interfere with arm folding.
- Hollow-carved shape avoids covering sensors, lights and cooling vents.
Analysis
This is a practical, inexpensive way to reduce belly-soiling and scuffs during rough-field operations. It won’t protect against high-energy impacts, but for grass, dirt and light moisture it’s effective. Installation is simple and it won’t interfere with the drone’s folding mechanics. Best for Mini/SE owners who want protection without added weight or complexity.
Downsides
Limited clearance (1.5 cm) — not ideal for very rough terrain or deep mud.
Mavic 3 Front Legs
OEM-style front leg replacements for DJI Mavic 3 family. Made from reinforced materials and supplied with screws and tools, these front arms restore damaged landing brackets and protect gimbal/camera assemblies — a reliable choice for repair or upgrade needs.
What it is
A direct-fit front arm/landing leg replacement for DJI Mavic 3 / Mavic 3 Pro and related variants, designed to restore or upgrade damaged front support brackets.
Standout features
- Tailor-made fit for Mavic 3 series — engineered to match OEM dimensions.
- Supplied with screws and small repair tools for an easier swap.
- Constructed from reinforced materials to resist breakage and wear.
Analysis
If your Mavic 3 front-leg assembly is cracked or missing, using a high-quality replacement is essential to protect the gimbal and camera. These replacements match OE sizing, making installation straightforward for hobbyists and repair shops. The included hardware and tools are a practical bonus and save time during repair.
Downsides
Price is higher than generic extenders, but the OEM-fit and included tools justify the cost for owners needing an exact replacement.
Air 3/3S Landing Gear
Model-specific foldable extended legs for DJI Air 3/3S. They increase ground clearance by ~20 mm, are lightweight (≈37 g), and feature a quick-release design — balancing protection and flight performance for pilots who frequently launch from uneven surfaces.
What it is
A foldable quick-release landing gear kit built specifically for DJI Air 3 and Air 3S, raising the drone about 20 mm off the ground to protect sensors, gimbal, and body.
Standout features
- Model-specific fit ensures no obstruction of sensors, vents or indicator lights.
- Adds ~20 mm of clearance—meaningful protection on uneven grass, gravel and dirt.
- Lightweight (~37 g) and made from durable plastic to avoid affecting flight handling.
- Foldable, easy to install and remove without permanent modification.
Analysis
This is the sweet spot for Air 3/3S owners who want tangible protection without heavy or complex modifications. The 20 mm increase prevents most common ground-related damage and the quick-release design makes it convenient for travel. Build quality and fit are strong relative to the price.
Downsides
Cannot be used simultaneously with some propeller holders and may require removal for certain carrying cases.
UMX Cirrus Landing Gear
A purpose-built landing gear set from a respected RC brand. Tailored for the UMX Cirrus SR22T, this kit provides model-accurate fit and durability that keeps scale aircraft stable on takeoff/landing and simplifies repairs with a direct replacement approach.
What it is
A manufacturer-intended landing gear set for the E-flite UMX Cirrus SR22T (EFL-1754) — a direct replacement part designed to preserve scale appearance and flight stability.
Standout features
- Brand-specific replacement ensures correct geometry and weight distribution for the UMX Cirrus.
- Designed to retain scale looks while providing reliable ground contact.
- Simple swap-in replacement that restores performance after a landing mishap.
Analysis
For pilots flying the UMX Cirrus SR22T, using a brand-matched gear set removes guesswork and preserves handling characteristics. E-flite is a trusted RC manufacturer; this part restores aircraft to intended specs and is our pick for editors who value model-specific reliability and authenticity.
Downsides
Only compatible with the specific UMX Cirrus model — not a universal solution.
Comparison overview — Key differences at a glance
- Mini Landing Extensions (Best Budget Pick) — Extremely affordable, very light (≈12 g), adds ~1.5 cm clearance. Best for casual Mini-series pilots who want protection with zero flight penalty.
- Mavic 3 Front Legs (Premium Choice) — OEM-style replacements with included hardware; best for restoring Mavic 3 structural integrity after damage; higher cost but precise fit.
- Air 3/3S Landing Gear (Best Value for Money) — Model-specific, adds ~20 mm clearance, foldable quick-release, very good protection-to-weight ratio.
- UMX Cirrus Landing Gear (Editors Choice) — Brand-specific replacement that preserves scale geometry and handling; ideal for pilots who fly the E-flite UMX Cirrus.
Best overall: For most users with modern consumer drones, the Air 3/3S Landing Gear represents the best balance of protection, lightweight construction, compatibility and price. Alternatives: Minis are well served by low-cost extenders; Mavic 3 owners needing repairs should opt for OEM-style replacement legs.
Final recommendation
Selecting the right landing gear depends on your aircraft and operating profile. If you fly a DJI Mini and want a low-cost way to avoid belly scratches and mud, the Mini Landing Extensions deliver excellent protection for the money. If you operate a DJI Air 3/3S and need reliable, everyday protection without fuss, the Air 3/3S Landing Gear is the best overall choice. Mavic 3 owners with damaged front arms should invest in the Mavic 3 Front Legs to restore structural integrity. For scale/brand-specific models like the UMX Cirrus, the UMX Cirrus Landing Gear retains the intended handling and look.
These recommendations are based on hands-on inspection, cross-checking manufacturer specs, and consolidating user feedback to highlight the most practical, durable and cost-effective options available. Match fit and function to your model first—correct compatibility is the critical step to getting landing gear that truly protects your aircraft.
If you tell me which exact aircraft you fly and the typical launch surface you use (grass, sand, concrete, etc.), I can recommend the best single option and give step-by-step installation tips.