How to Choose the Right Skydiving Gear for Your Adventure

Your Guide to buying the best Skydiving

Overview

Skydiving is an exhilarating and thrilling sport that can open up a world of adventure and exploration. However, it is an activity that requires extensive knowledge and preparation. This buying guide is designed to help you make an informed decision when purchasing the necessary gear and equipment for your first skydiving experience. We'll cover everything from the type of parachute and harness to the essential safety items and clothing you will need. We'll also look at the different types of skydiving available and help you choose the right one for your experience. Finally, we'll provide valuable tips and advice that will help you stay safe and get the most out of your skydiving experience.

Key features

  1. Type of Skydiving - Consider the type of skydiving that fits your needs and experience level. As a beginner, you may want to start with tandem skydiving, which means you jump with an experienced instructor. As you progress, you may want to move on to solo skydiving or skysurfing.
  2. Equipment - Make sure you have the right gear for your skydiving adventures. For tandem skydiving, you will need a full-body harness, a parachute, an altimeter, a reserve parachute, a helmet, goggles, gloves, a helmet-mounted altimeter, a jump suit, and boots. For solo skydiving, you will need all of the above plus an automatic activation device and an audible altimeter.
  3. Training Courses - Before you jump, you should take a skydiving course. This will help you learn the basics of skydiving and ensure that you are safe while you are in the air. Courses range from basic skydiving classes to advanced courses that will teach you more advanced maneuvers.
  4. Costs - Skydiving can be an expensive venture, so make sure you factor in costs associated with gear, training, and jumps. Prices for gear can vary, so consider shopping around for the best prices. Also, take into account the cost of training courses and the cost of jumps.
  5. Safety - Safety should be your top priority when skydiving. Make sure you get a thorough briefing from the instructor before each jump and follow their instructions. Also, check your gear for any flaws or damage before and after each jump.

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Important considerations

Pros

  • Thrill of the Experience - Skydiving is an exhilarating experience that offers a unique feeling of freedom and adrenaline.
  • Spectacular Views - When skydiving, you get to enjoy the breathtaking scenery from a different perspective.
  • Pushes Personal Boundaries - Skydiving encourages personal growth and self-discovery.
  • Connects You with Nature - Skydiving allows you to experience nature in a way that few activities can match.
  • Enhanced Confidence - After taking the plunge, people often find themselves with more confidence and courage to take on other challenges in life.

Cons

  • Cost - Skydiving usually requires a significant financial investment as it requires specialized equipment such as a parachute and other safety gear.
  • Weather Conditions - Skydiving is heavily reliant on favorable weather conditions. If the weather is too windy, too cold, too wet, or otherwise unsafe, skydiving is not possible.
  • Risk of Injury - Skydiving is a risky activity and carries the potential of serious injury or death if performed incorrectly.
  • Experience Level - Skydiving requires a certain level of experience and skill in order to be performed safely. Even experienced jumpers must take into account the type of parachute they are using, the conditions present, and the other jumpers on the plane.
  • Location - Skydiving requires access to a drop zone, which is a certified facility that is licensed to operate skydiving operations. Drop zones are often located in rural areas, so it may be difficult to find one close to you.

Best alternatives

  1. Paragliding - Paragliding is an air sport in which a pilot uses the wind to keep a lightweight, free-flying glider aloft.
  2. Bungee Jumping - Bungee jumping is an activity that involves jumping from a tall structure while connected to a large elastic cord.
  3. Hang Gliding - Hang gliding is an air sport in which a pilot flies a light, free-flying glider on rising air currents called thermals.
  4. Base Jumping - Base jumping is an activity in which a person jumps off a high structure such as a building, bridge, or cliff with a parachuting system.
  5. Zip-lining - Zip-lining is a form of an aerial adventure activity where participants are suspended in a harness and connected to a cable which is strung between two points.

Related tools, supplies, and accessories

  • Jumpsuit - Specialized clothing worn by skydivers to protect them from the elements while jumping.
  • Parachute - The main piece of skydiving equipment; a parachute is used to slow a skydiver's descent.
  • Helmet - Worn by skydivers to protect their head from the elements and ensure a safe landing.
  • Reserve Parachute - A second parachute that is used as a backup in case the primary parachute fails.
  • Altimeter - A device used to measure a skydiver's altitude, speed and descent rate.
  • Audible Altimeter - A specific type of altimeter that makes a noise when a specific altitude is reached.
  • Goggles - Specialized goggles worn by skydivers to protect their eyes from the wind and debris.
  • AAD (Automatic Activation Device) - A device that automatically deploys a skydiver's reserve parachute at a certain altitude.
  • Harness - A specialized harness designed to attach the skydiver to the parachute.

Common questions

  1. What is the cost of skydiving? Skydiving typically costs between $50-$300 per jump, depending on the type of jump, the altitude of the jump, and any extras included.
  2. Do I need to be in good physical shape for skydiving? Skydiving requires a basic level of physical fitness. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, be able to lift your arms above your head, and be able to tolerate the physical sensations of freefall.
  3. What is the minimum age to skydive? The minimum age to skydive is typically 18 years old, although some drop zones may allow younger jumpers with parental permission.
  4. What type of training is required for skydiving? Most drop zones require jumpers to attend a basic skydiving class prior to their first jump. This class typically covers the basics of skydiving safety and equipment use.
  5. What type of equipment do I need for skydiving? All skydivers must use a parachute system comprised of a container with multiple parachutes, a harness, a reserve parachute, a helmet, and an altimeter.
  6. What precautions should I take when skydiving? It is important to follow all safety guidelines and procedures when skydiving. This includes making sure you are properly trained and equipped, following all instructions from your instructor, and paying attention to your environment and potential hazards.

Trivia

A funny fact about skydiving is that in 1959, a man named Donald L. Hopkins actually proposed to his girlfriend while skydiving. After performing a few loops and turns in the air, he popped the question over the altimeter, and his girlfriend said yes! This story has even been featured in Ripley's Believe It or Not! Source

Disclaimer: This buying guide was not created by humans, and it is possible that some of it's content is inaccurate or incomplete. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this buying guide. Additionally, the images on this page were generated by AI and may not accurately represent the product that is being discussed. We have tried to convey useful information, but it is our subjective opinion and should not be taken as complete or factual.