Performing braked turns is the best method for changing the direction of the canopy flight while conserving altitude. Braked turns allow the canopy pilot to initiate a turn by pulling down on the rear risers, which creates additional drag and enables a steeper turn without a significant loss of altitude. This technique is particularly useful for making controlled and responsive changes in direction during the landing approach or while flying in the air.
Making sharp turns can lead to a more significant loss of altitude due to the increased speed and increased descent rate associated with tighter, more aggressive maneuvers. Using full brakes to stall the canopy is a method that could stop forward flight entirely, but it is not practical for maintaining controlled altitude while changing direction, as it risks a complete stall and loss of control. Gradual turns without brakes do allow for some altitude conservation, but they do not provide the same level of responsiveness and direction control as braked turns. Therefore, utilizing braked turns is the optimal approach for effectively changing direction while maintaining altitude stability.