Skydiving is one of the most thrilling experiences a person can have, offering the chance to feel the rush of freefall and the excitement of flight. However, to ensure that your jump is not only exhilarating but also safe, having the right gear is crucial. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned skydiver, understanding what to wear and pack for your skydive is vital for both comfort and safety. This guide will walk you through the essential gear needed for a safe and enjoyable skydiving experience.
The Right Clothing: Comfort, Safety, and Flexibility
Skydiving requires both comfort and functionality in your clothing. While it's important to stay comfortable, you also need gear that supports safety and movement throughout the jump.
Clothing Essentials
- Jumpsuit : Most drop zones will provide you with a jumpsuit, which is designed to be worn over your own clothing. These suits are typically made from lightweight, durable fabric, such as nylon or polyester, and are meant to protect you from the elements during the jump. Jumpsuits often have elastic cuffs and ankles to ensure they stay in place, reducing the risk of snagging during freefall.
- Base layer : Underneath your jumpsuit, you'll want to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing. Avoid tight‑fitting clothes that may restrict your movement. Opt for moisture‑wicking fabrics like cotton or athletic wear to keep you comfortable during your jump. Avoid wearing heavy clothes, as they can feel cumbersome when jumping out of an aircraft.
- Athletic shoes or sneakers : Closed‑toed shoes are essential for skydiving. The ideal choice is a sturdy pair with a secure fit. Avoid sandals, flip‑flops, or boots with high heels. Proper footwear ensures that your feet remain firmly in place during the jump and landing.
- Gloves : Some skydiving centers may provide gloves, or you can bring your own. Gloves help to keep your hands warm and provide grip on the parachute toggles during your descent. They also offer protection in case you need to grip anything during the landing.
Weather‑Appropriate Clothing
- Cold Weather : If you're jumping in colder conditions, layering is key. Opt for thermal clothing or fleece‑lined clothing underneath your jumpsuit to keep warm without restricting your movement. Additionally, bring a light jacket or vest to wear before or after your jump.
- Hot Weather : In warmer conditions, lighter clothing is preferable. However, be cautious of sun exposure; wearing long sleeves and pants can protect you from sunburn during pre‑jump waiting times.
Avoiding Accessories
While it's tempting to wear accessories for style, it's best to avoid jewelry, watches, and hats when skydiving. These can interfere with the gear and cause potential safety risks, such as getting caught in the parachute lines.
Skydiving Gear: The Equipment You'll Be Using
Skydiving requires specialized equipment, each component playing a crucial role in your safety. Although much of the gear is provided by the drop zone, it's helpful to understand what to expect and ensure everything is in place before your jump.
Tandem Skydiving Gear (For Beginners)
For your first jump, you will most likely be doing a tandem skydive, which means you'll be securely attached to an experienced instructor. In this case, your primary concern will be making sure you're comfortable and the gear fits correctly.
- Harness : The tandem harness is the most important piece of equipment for your jump. It attaches you to your instructor and the parachute system. The harness should fit snugly but comfortably around your waist, chest, and legs, ensuring that you stay secure during the freefall and landing.
- Main parachute : The parachute system includes the main chute, which will slow your descent. This is deployed at the appropriate altitude by the instructor or automatically, depending on the system used. The main parachute is typically located in a specially designed container worn on the back.
- Automatic Activation Device (AAD) : The AAD is a safety device that will automatically deploy the parachute if the skydiver has not already done so by a certain altitude. This system provides an extra layer of security, especially for beginners.
Advanced Skydiving Gear (For Experienced Skydivers)
For solo skydivers or those with more experience, you'll need to be familiar with a full skydiving rig, which includes the following:
- Main and Reserve Parachutes : As a solo jumper, you'll have both a main parachute and a reserve parachute . The reserve is a backup system in case the main chute fails. These should be packed by a certified rigger and inspected regularly for safety.
- Altimeter : The altimeter is a device worn on the wrist or attached to the helmet that shows your current altitude. It is essential for knowing when to deploy your parachute, and for experienced jumpers, it can help in planning maneuvers during freefall.
- AAD: Like for tandem jumpers, experienced skydivers may also choose to wear an AAD as an additional layer of protection.
- Helmet : Helmets are a key part of skydiving gear. They provide head protection in the event of a hard landing, and they can also be used to attach communication devices for advanced jumps where you may need to stay in contact with your instructor.
Additional Accessories: Ensuring a Smooth Experience
While the basics are crucial for your safety, there are a few additional accessories you can bring to enhance your skydiving experience and help you feel more comfortable during the process.
Goggles
One of the most important accessories to wear during your jump is goggles . The wind during freefall can be intense, and goggles protect your eyes from debris and the wind. Most drop zones will provide goggles, but you may also choose to bring your own if you have specific preferences.
- Types of Goggles : Standard goggles are typically provided for tandem jumps. For solo skydivers, there are specialized goggles that offer a more snug fit and prevent any fogging during the jump.
Camera/Video Equipment
Many people want to capture their first skydiving experience on camera. While it's not recommended to hold a camera during a tandem jump (since both hands are needed for proper body positioning), you can opt for a video package offered by the drop zone. This typically includes a skydiving photographer who will record your experience from the ground and during freefall.
For experienced jumpers, wearable cameras such as GoPro are commonly used, but these must be securely mounted to avoid interfering with the parachute system.
Skydiving Logbook
Skydiving logbooks are essential for tracking your jumps and progress as a skydiver. After each jump, you can record details such as altitude, jump type, and any important notes about the experience. This is particularly useful for those working towards obtaining a skydiving license.
Packing a Bag
If you're planning to jump in the morning and have to wait a few hours or even the entire day, bring a small bag with the following items:
- Snacks and Water : Stay hydrated and bring light snacks to keep your energy levels up while you wait for your turn.
- Personal Items : A small bag with your phone, sunscreen , or any other personal items you may need during your trip to the drop zone.
Final Safety Checklist
Before heading to the drop zone, it's crucial to double‑check your gear and ensure everything is in place. Here's a quick checklist to make sure you're fully prepared for your jump:
- Tight‑fitting jumpsuit -- comfortable but not restrictive.
- Appropriate shoes -- athletic shoes or sneakers.
- Secure harness fit -- check that it's snug but not too tight.
- Goggles -- ensure they fit securely and comfortably.
- Helmet -- for protection during the jump.
- Camera (optional) -- ensure it's securely mounted if you're recording your experience.
- Logbook (optional) -- for keeping a record of your jumps.
Skydiving is an incredibly exciting adventure, and having the right gear is essential to making the experience enjoyable and, most importantly, safe. Whether you're a first‑time jumper or an experienced skydiver, understanding and preparing your gear is key to ensuring a smooth and unforgettable skydiving experience.