Many people often ask us, “What should I wear for my tandem skydive?” It’s a great question, and we’re happy to help. Preparing for your first skydiving experience can feel a little overwhelming, but choosing the right outfit doesn’t have to be. While your skydiving instructor will make a final assessment of what you can and can’t wear based on safety protocols, we’re here to give you a comprehensive guide on what to wear for your skydiving adventure, ensuring you’re comfortable, safe, and ready for the thrill of a lifetime!
General Guidelines for Skydiving Attire
The good news is that you can wear whatever you feel comfortable in, as long as it does not pose a safety risk. The skydiving outfit should fit well, allow for ease of movement, and be snug enough that it won’t get in the way during freefall. On the day of your jump, your instructor will perform an equipment check and make a quick assessment of your outfit to ensure that everything is secure.
One thing to note: we do not provide jumpsuits or baggy pants to wear over your clothing, so it’s essential to dress appropriately. If you don’t have closed-toe shoes, no need to worry—we offer spare shoes for you to wear before your skydive.
Skydiving in Different Seasons: What to Wear
Skydiving is an outdoor sport, and because you’ll be reaching altitudes of up to 15,000 feet above sea level, weather and temperature can change drastically. It’s important to dress for the weather on the ground, but also consider how cold it can get at those high altitudes. Here’s a quick guide based on the seasons:
Summer Skydiving Attire
In warmer months, most people opt for light, breathable, and comfortable activewear. A simple t-shirt paired with leggings or shorts is a great choice for your tandem skydive. Keep in mind that it does get relatively cold at higher altitudes, even in summer. The wind chill and the speed of freefall mean that temperatures can be much lower up top. For this reason, some jumpers choose to bring a light jumper to wear for the jump.
Remember, comfort is key, and you want to make sure you’re not overheating before you take the leap, but also prepared for cooler temperatures at altitude.
Winter Skydiving Attire
In colder months, it’s especially important to dress warmly for your skydive. At higher altitudes, it can get quite chilly, and with the speed and air pressure during freefall, the cold can be even more intense. For winter skydiving, we recommend wearing a jumper or long sleeves and long pants or leggings. Layering up is also a good idea to make sure you’re prepared for changing temperatures before and after your jump.
In winter, your instructor will take these conditions into account, and they’ll provide any additional guidance needed to ensure you have a safe and comfortable jump.
What Not to Wear for Skydiving
While there are many clothing options that work well for skydiving, there are some that could cause issues during your jump. We want to make sure you’re fully prepared and don’t experience any uncomfortable or unsafe situations, so here are a few wardrobe malfunctions to avoid:
Loose-Fitting or Baggy Clothing
While comfort is essential, you’ll want to avoid wearing clothes that are too loose or baggy. Flapping fabric could get caught in the parachute or equipment during freefall, which could interfere with the jump. It’s always best to opt for clothing that fits snugly but allows for freedom of movement.
Low-Cut Shirts and Tank Tops
We recommend avoiding low-cut shirts or tank tops for your tandem skydive. Instead, go for a t-shirt or long-sleeve top that covers you properly and provides a secure fit.
Hooded Jumpers or Jackets
Hooded clothing may seem cozy, but it can cause problems during your skydive. The hood could flap around during freefall, and this could obstruct your view or cause a distraction. We suggest avoiding hoodies or jackets with hoods unless they are designed to stay snug and out of the way.
Jewelry and Accessories for Skydiving
Many first-time skydivers ask us about jewelry—should you wear rings, bracelets, necklaces, or watches during your skydive? Generally, we recommend removing any jewelry before your jump to avoid potential safety issues or losing your valuables during your skydive. Your instructor will assess your accessories on the day of the jump. If they’re deemed unsafe, you may be asked to remove them before the skydive.
For your convenience, we can keep your jewelry in a safe place while you skydive, or you can leave it with a friend or family member on the ground. Additionally, you’ll be asked to empty your pockets to ensure that nothing could fall out during freefall. If you have long hair, make sure to tie it back securely to avoid it getting tangled or obstructing your skydive instructors’ view during the jump.
GoPro and Camera Regulations for Skydiving
If you’re wondering whether you can bring your GoPro or camera to capture the breathtaking views during your jump, there are specific regulations you should know about. According to Australian Parachute Federation Regulations, tandem passengers are not permitted to jump with a GoPro or any other type of camera. This rule is in place for safety reasons.
While you may not be able to capture your own skydiving footage, don’t worry—many skydiving centers, including ours, offer professional camera services. Our experienced videographers can capture your entire jump from the moment you board the plane to your safe landing. It’s a great way to relive your experience and share it with friends and family!
Final Thoughts: Comfort and Safety Are Key
When preparing for your tandem skydive, remember that comfort and safety should be your top priorities. You want to be able to move freely, but also protect yourself from the elements at high altitudes. Always check with your instructor to ensure your clothing is suitable for the jump, and don’t forget to dress in layers if necessary. And while accessories and jewelry might seem like small details, removing them will help ensure your jump is as safe as possible.
Skydiving is one of the most thrilling experiences you’ll ever have, and being prepared in terms of what to wear will only enhance that experience. So, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime—and enjoy every minute of your skydive!