The big day is here! You’re finally ready to take your first skydiving lesson. You’ve been hyping it up on social media for a few weeks, and let’s be honest, you really can’t wait to show everyone the video of your experience. You’re ready and have all of your questions lined up for your instructor, but you still aren’t sure what you should wear! You’ve never gone skydiving, so … what can you wear?
While it isn’t the top priority (or shouldn’t be!), skydiving is definitely an ‘Instagrammable’ moment. Your first jump is a once in a lifetime experience, you want to document it! This also means you want to look good. That said, you also need to account for safety and comfort. Is there a way to find a balance? There may not be a definitive guide, but there are generally agreed upon rules that will help you make a sensible decision on what to wear for your first tandem skydive experience.
Wear Warm Clothes When Skydiving
One of the most influential elements of your jump will be weather. We jump on clear days, so you won’t exactly need to worry about the rain. What you do want to keep an eye on is temperature. The higher up you are, the cooler it will be … around 30 degrees cooler, in fact. While regular athletic wear would be a great option for the majority of jumps, on cold days we recommend adding some extra warmth.
Even in the summer, think twice about short sleeves, tank tops, or shorts. Longer layers are recommended to keep you protected from the sun and cold air. It is also a good idea to keep your landing in mind while dressing. You want to make sure you are protected from any grass or minor debris being kicked up.
Skydiving Requires the Right Footwear
Keeping with your landing, one way to ensure a safe one is to make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear. Think comfort, think safety. If you are having issues coming up with what would be the most appropriate, think gym class. You don’t want to wear shoes that would be inappropriate in a gym class setting.
That would include but not be limited to:
- Slip-ons and ballet flats
- Heels and clogs
- Heavy boots
- Sandals of any type
You get the idea! You want something flexible but sturdy. Something that is going to stay on firm, not only as your feet dangle, but also as you slide back onto solid ground. Even the brave brides and grooms you’ve seen soaring on YouTube usually have a pair of pristine tennis shoes to match their formal regalia. Make sure the shoes also fit well. If they’re too loose, they could slip off. But if they’re too tight, you may interfere with your circulation and find yourself with some very cold feet.
Keep Your Skydiving Outfit Simple
Yes, all skydivers should follow this rule, but it goes double for newcomers. You don’t want a lot of things to fuss with. You’re going to be strapped into a harness and then strapped to your tandem partner. Fringe, long skirts, baggy denim — all of these can cause a plethora of issues. One of the small issues it can create is an obstruction of the view! You may love your Coachella-ready fringed bralette, but we doubt you want to deeply inspect the fibers when you should be having your breath taken away by the scenery. You also want any long hair tied up and tucked away
Another reason to keep things simple is to prevent loss. Necklaces, rings, and sunglasses are all easy to lose when falling over 100mph. Don’t wear anything important. There’s no guarantee you’ll be able to ever find that engagement ring again. It isn’t uncommon to want to bring something that reminds you of a relative with you on your jump, but if Mom’s necklace is irreplaceable, it might be safer down below. If you cannot replace it or cannot afford to lose it, do not bring it along. No reason to taint your memories with the extra stress!
Do not worry about prescription eyewear. We will help you accommodate your glasses! We want you to enjoy that beautiful view as much as anyone else.
A Note on Jeans
Jeans are hit-or-miss in all sports. Generally speaking, they just aren’t the best option for skydiving. If jeans are comfortable for you, then please wear them! We want to ensure all customers are not only comfortable, but also able to freely move. Tight jeans are not recommended for skydiving as they can restrict movement. Joggers and leggings are ideal options for skydiving, especially on cooler days.
The Best Attire?
Never forget that skydiving is a sport. Just like any sport, you want to be properly equipped. Your ideal skydiving outfit is going to be:
- Warm
- Protective
- Simple and Practical
The athletic look will provide you all the functionality needed while also giving you the look of a serious skydiver. Paired with well-fitted tennis shoes and a tightly bound bun for our longer haired patrons, you will be ready to fully enjoy the jump while looking smart. Don’t worry if you aren’t the ‘athleisure’ type. A simple shirt and jeans is absolutely welcome as long as you are comfortable. Keep the tips here in mind, and you will be ready for an unforgettable day.
Ready to suit up and sail the skies with us? We can’t wait to show you the view! Whether a solo jumper, couple, or family, we have something that will work for you. To book today, please give us a call at 520-840-9095 or get in touch with us through email at PhoenixSkydiveCenter@gmail.com.
