Conquer Your Fears and Look Great Doing It: What to Wear for Your First Skydive
So, you’ve booked your first skydiving adventure! Congratulations! It’s an exhilarating experience, and while the rush of adrenaline is the main event, feeling comfortable and confident in what you're wearing is also a big part of enjoying the jump. For our female skydivers, the question of "What should I wear skydiving female?" is a common one, and we're here to give you the lowdown. Forget the fashion show; skydiving is all about practicality, safety, and embracing the freedom of flight. Let's break down exactly what you need to consider.
The Golden Rule: Comfort and Functionality Over Fashion
Before we dive into specifics, remember this: your skydive instructor will provide you with a jumpsuit that goes over your own clothing. This jumpsuit is designed to protect you from the elements, keep you snug, and ensure your parachute lines don't get snagged. Therefore, what you wear underneath is primarily for your comfort and warmth, depending on the weather conditions.
Tops: Layering is Key
Long-Sleeved Shirt: This is your best friend for a skydive. A long-sleeved shirt, whether it’s a t-shirt, a thermal top, or a comfortable athletic shirt, is highly recommended. Why? The wind can get surprisingly chilly at altitude, even on a warm day. The long sleeves offer protection from the windblast and the abrasive nature of the skydiving jumpsuit. Avoid anything too loose that might flap around excessively.
Avoid: Anything with excessive embellishments like sequins, large zippers on the back, or anything that could snag. Also, steer clear of spaghetti straps or very thin tank tops unless you plan on layering a significant amount over them, and even then, a long-sleeved base is better.
Bottoms: Practicality Prevails
Long Pants: Just like with tops, long pants are a must. Think comfortable athletic pants, jeans (though some dropzones may prefer you avoid jeans due to stiffness), or comfortable cargo pants. The key is to have full leg coverage. These will provide warmth and protection under the jumpsuit.
Avoid: Shorts, skirts, leggings that are too thin (as they offer minimal warmth and protection), or anything with tight, constricting waistbands that could become uncomfortable during the jump or under the jumpsuit.
Footwear: Secure and Simple
Athletic Shoes or Sneakers: This is the ideal footwear. They are comfortable, provide good grip, and won't come loose easily. Lace them up snugly! Your instructor will want to ensure your shoes are secure to prevent them from flying off mid-jump.
Avoid: Sandals, flip-flops, open-toed shoes, high heels, or boots with hooks that could snag. Anything that isn't securely fastened to your foot is a no-go.
Hair and Accessories: Tie Them Up and Take Them Off!
Hair: If you have long hair, it absolutely *must* be tied back. A ponytail or a braid is perfect. If you have very long or thick hair, consider braiding it into two pigtails or securing it very tightly so it doesn’t become a distraction or a hazard. Some dropzones may offer hairnets to wear under your helmet.
Accessories: This is a critical point for safety. Remove all jewelry before your skydive. This includes rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. These items can snag on the parachute, your jumpsuit, or your harness, posing a significant safety risk. Also, remove any watches. Leave them secured in your car or with your belongings. Any loose items, even glasses that aren't secured with a strap, can become projectiles or get lost.
Undergarments: Keep it Comfortable
Sports Bra: For added support and comfort, a sports bra is highly recommended. It will help keep everything in place during the physical activity and the intense experience of freefall.
Underwear: Wear comfortable, everyday underwear. Nothing special is required here, just whatever you feel most comfortable in.
The Jumpsuit: Your Outer Shell
As mentioned, your dropzone will provide you with a skydiving jumpsuit. These are typically made of durable, wind-resistant material and come in various sizes. They are worn over your personal clothing. Some may have foot straps to keep pant legs secure, and others may rely on your secure footwear.
What About the Weather?
The weather plays a significant role in what you might wear underneath. If it's a cooler day, consider layering a thermal shirt or a light fleece under your long-sleeved shirt. If it’s a warmer day, a simple cotton long-sleeved t-shirt will suffice. Remember, the jumpsuit provides a layer of insulation.
A Quick Checklist for Female Skydivers:
- Top: Long-sleeved shirt (athletic or comfortable cotton)
- Bottoms: Long pants (jeans, athletic pants, or cargo pants)
- Footwear: Closed-toe athletic shoes or sneakers, laced securely
- Hair: Tied back securely (ponytail or braids)
- Accessories: REMOVE ALL JEWELRY and watches. Secure any glasses with a strap.
- Undergarments: Sports bra recommended.
What NOT to Wear: A Final Word
To reiterate, avoid anything that is:
- Loose and flowy (scarves, baggy shirts)
- Open-toed or insecure footwear
- Excessive jewelry or accessories
- Clothing that restricts movement
- Anything with sharp embellishments or large zippers
By following these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared for your skydiving adventure. Focus on feeling secure, comfortable, and ready to embrace the incredible experience of flying! Your primary concern should be to have a safe and enjoyable jump, and the right clothing contributes significantly to that goal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I secure my glasses for skydiving?
A: If you wear glasses and cannot skydive with contact lenses, you will need to secure them with a strap that goes around your head. Most dropzones have these available for purchase or rent. It is crucial that your glasses are firmly attached and will not fall off during the jump, as this can be a safety hazard.
Q: Why do I have to remove all jewelry?
A: Jewelry, no matter how small, can snag on the parachute, harness, or even your clothing. This can cause the parachute to malfunction or create dangerous situations. Removing all jewelry is a mandatory safety precaution to ensure a smooth and safe jump for both you and your instructor.
Q: Can I wear leggings for skydiving?
A: While leggings are comfortable, they might not offer enough protection or warmth under the skydive jumpsuit, especially on cooler days. It’s generally recommended to wear thicker pants like athletic pants or jeans. If you choose to wear leggings, ensure they are not see-through and consider layering them with warmer pants over them if the weather is cool.
Q: Why is a long-sleeved shirt so important?
A: The windblast during freefall can be intense, and at higher altitudes, the temperature drops significantly. A long-sleeved shirt provides a crucial layer of protection against the cold and prevents windburn. It also offers a bit of cushioning and prevents your skin from getting scratched by the jumpsuit or harness.
