Although many people will never understand the logic behind jumping out of a perfectly good airplane--even when equipped with the proper skydiving gear--there are plenty of enthusiastic folks who wholeheartedly believe it's an experience they don't want to miss. One thing everyone can agree on, however, is the importance of having the right skydiving equipment.
Because lives are on the line with every jump, skydiving equipment education and training is critical for anyone involved in this extreme sport. It's important to consider the following aspects of skydiving training:
1. Understand the most common skydiving equipment terms and definitions.
2. Evaluate new and used skydiving equipment with careful consideration.
3. Learn what you need to know about the care and maintenance of skydiving equipment and find out how to inspect the gear before each jump.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Learn the types of skydiving equipment available and the purpose for each piece of gear
Although obviously the most important piece of skydiving equipment, skydiving parachutes are just the beginning. Some gear is mandatory, most is optional, but all combine to create a safe and exciting skydiving experience.
I recommend: For an outline of the most popular skydiving equipment, complete with terms and definitions, visit
Skydiving-Granny. The
United States Parachute Association also has an informative skydiving equipment overview, with a primary focus on the skydiving parachute.
Explore the ups and downs of buying skydiving equipment
Both new and used skydiving gear is readily available for anyone looking to buy skydiving equipment. It's important to get education on the various types of skydiving equipment for sale. You may want to find out some good questions to ask before you purchase skydive equipment.
I recommend: Dropzone.com offers reviews on all types of skydiving equipment, including altimeters, headgear, parachutes and videos. You can find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about buying skydiving equipment at
Skydive San Francisco. See an index of skydiving gear suppliers and skydive equipment manufacturers, including a short description and link to contact information for each, at
The Enclave and
Parachuting.com.
Understand the importance of maintaining and regularly inspecting skydiving gear
Because of the nature of and possible dangers associated with skydiving, caring for, performing general maintenance and knowing what to look for when inspecting skydiving equipment is critical.
I recommend: You'll find an educational checklist-type article on how to maintain and care for your skydiving gear at
GT Sport Parachute Club.
Skydivingrocks.com covers the vital step of inspecting skydiving equipment before each jump.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Skydiving equipment suppliers are often your best source of information for the hows, whats and whys of skydiving equipment and typically are more than happy to share what they know.
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