If you’re reading this, you’ve probably caught the skydiving bug and are ready to take the next big leap—buying your own skydiving gear. Congratulations! Having your own equipment not only adds a personal touch to your jumps, but it also allows you to get comfortable with gear that’s tailored specifically to your body and preferences. However, buying your first set of skydiving gear can feel overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know as a first-time buyer.
- Understand the Basics of Skydiving Gear
Before diving into purchases, it’s crucial to understand the components of a typical skydiving rig. The standard setup includes:
Main Parachute: This is your primary canopy. As a beginner, you’ll want a canopy that’s larger, more docile, and forgiving. This provides smoother, more predictable landings. You’ll gain a better understanding of size during training, but should remain 1:1 ration initially.
Reserve Parachute: A backup canopy that you hope never to use, but it’s a critical part of every rig. This should be no lower than the smallest size canopy you’ve comfortably rode before.
Harness & Container: This is what holds everything together and keeps you attached to your parachutes. Typically you will want to look for one that’s previous owner was a similar body size to you, and had some room in the fit to work for you.
Automatic Activation Device (AAD): A safety device that deploys the reserve parachute automatically if it detects that you are descending too fast at a certain altitude.
Understanding these basic components is important before you begin making purchasing decisions.
- New vs. Used Gear
When it comes to purchasing skydiving gear, many beginners wonder if they should buy new or used equipment. Both options have their pros and cons:
New Gear: The main advantage is peace of mind. You know exactly where your gear is coming from, and everything is in top condition with a warranty. However, new gear can be expensive, with full setups easily costing $5,000 or more, this isn’t always practical for the new guy after AFF.
Used Gear: This is a more affordable option for many beginners, with complete rigs starting at around $2,500. Buying used gear can be a smart move, especially if you’re still figuring out what you like and prefer. However, make sure the gear is in good condition and fits you properly. Always get a second opinion from a certified rigger before purchasing, give a dropzone a call and ask if they can work as an intermediary for you prior to payment in full.
- Sizing and Fit
One of the most critical factors when buying your first set of skydiving gear is ensuring that it fits you properly. Skydiving rigs aren’t one-size-fits-all, and wearing a rig that’s too small or too large can affect your safety and comfort.
Canopy Size: When choosing your main parachute, the size (usually measured in square feet) is essential. As a beginner, you’ll want a larger canopy for more stability and a slower descent. Your instructor or rigger can recommend the right size based on your experience level and weight.
Harness Fit: Your harness needs to fit your body snugly but comfortably. Too tight, and it will restrict movement; too loose, and it may cause issues during deployment or landing.
- Budgeting for Additional Gear
Apart from your main rig, you’ll need a few more pieces of gear to get started:
Helmet: A well-fitted helmet is vital. Full-face helmets provide the best protection and visibility, but open-face helmets are also an option.
Altimeter: An altimeter helps you track your altitude during the jump. You can choose between digital and analog versions, but both do the job well.
Jumpsuit: A jumpsuit protects your body during jumps and can help with stability in the air. Different suits are designed for different types of skydiving, so pick one suited to your goals. These are not cheap and typically run upwards of $300- 400.
Goggles: If you’re not using a full-face helmet, good-quality goggles are a must to protect your eyes during freefall. Again, these are often expensive for what they are.
- Getting Advice from Experienced Jumpers
Before committing to a purchase, seek advice from experienced jumpers at your local drop zone. Many skydivers will gladly share their experiences and even let you test out gear to get a feel for different setups.
Ask them questions like:
What brands are the most reliable?
Should I prioritize a particular component, like the canopy, over others?
How often should I expect to service or replace my gear?
- Where to Buy Skydiving Gear
Skydiving Gear Retailers: Buying from a reputable retailer guarantees you’ll be getting safe, certified gear. Stores like ChutingStar and The Skydiving Company offer a range of equipment for beginners and experts alike.
Secondhand Markets: If you’re on a budget, secondhand skydiving gear can be found through online forums, Facebook groups, and drop zone bulletin boards. Just ensure the equipment has been inspected and certified by a licensed rigger. GearReplay.com is a great resource for newcomers to skydiving and other fun action sports. - Caring for Your Gear
Once you’ve bought your first set of skydiving gear, it’s important to care for it properly to ensure it lasts and keeps you safe. Regular inspections, proper storage, and packing by a licensed rigger are essential to maintaining your gear. Here are a few quick tips:
Keep your gear dry and out of direct sunlight.
Never leave your rig in a hot car or damp environment for extended periods.
Have your AAD serviced as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Set Your Skydiving Goals
Finally, think about your future skydiving goals when purchasing your gear. Do you want to get into wingsuit flying, freeflying, or camera flying? Each discipline may have slightly different gear requirements, so it’s a good idea to start with versatile equipment that will grow with you as your skills improve.
Conclusion
Buying your first set of skydiving gear is a big step in your skydiving journey, but with careful research and a little guidance, you’ll be well on your way to owning gear that keeps you safe and enhances your experience. Remember, safety and comfort should always come first, and don’t hesitate to consult experts when making your decisions. Enjoy the sky, and blue skies always!