What Equipment Is Required for Skydiving?

Skydiving is an extreme sport in which the skydiver, or jumper, leaps from an airplane at high altitude, using skydiving equipment to return safely to earth. Skydiving equipment ensures that the jumper descends at the right speed and lands on the ground safely.

  1. Parachute System

    • Skydiving requires parachute equipment, which is assembled in a specialized backpack that is strapped to the jumper's chest and legs. One main parachute and a reserve parachute made of zero-porosity nylon fabric are packed into this backpack.

    Automatic Activation Device

    • The automatic activation device is a piece of equipment required for skydiving that deploys the main parachute or reserve canopy at a specified altitude by calculating the rate of descent and altitude.

    Reserve Static Line

    • The reserve static line activates the reserve parachute in the event that the main parachute is compromised. This safety feature is necessary in the event of an emergency.

    Altimeters

    • Altimeters are devices that indicate current altitude. Visual altimeters are worn on the torso or wrist; audible altimeters are worn near the ears.

    Other Equipment

    • Goggles protect the jumper's eyes from the pressure and speed of skydiving free falls. Skydiving helmets are also required equipment