Skydiving is an exhilarating adventure that offers a unique perspective of the world. In Chicago, with its diverse weather and stunning landscapes, the experience can be even more remarkable. One of the key spects of a successful skydiving experience is choosing the right attire. What you wear can impact your comfort, safety, and overall enjoyment during the jump. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about what to wear when skydiving in Chicago.
Weather Considerations
Spring (March – May)
In the spring, Chicago’s weather can be quite unpredictable. Temperatures can range from cool to mild, with the possibility of rain. For spring skydiving, it’s advisable to dress in layers. Start with a moisture – wicking base layer. This type of fabric will keep you dry by pulling sweat away from your body. A long – sleeved thermal shirt can be a great choice. Over this, add a light fleece or a wind – resistant jacket. The wind at high altitudes can be much stronger than on the ground, so a windbreaker will help protect you from the chill.
For your lower body, opt for long pants. Jeans are a popular choice, but they can be a bit heavy if they get wet. Instead, lightweight, breathable hiking pants or joggers with some stretch are ideal. They offer comfort and freedom of movement. Don’t forget to wear comfortable socks and closed – toe shoes. Tennis shoes or hiking boots are perfect as they provide good ankle support, which is important during landing.
Summer (June – August)
Summer in Chicago is generally warm to hot. However, once you reach higher altitudes during a skydive, the temperature drops significantly. For summer skydiving, begin with a lightweight, short – sleeved shirt made of breathable material like cotton or a cotton – blend. Avoid wearing loose – fitting tops that could flap in the wind and cause discomfort or pose a safety risk.
On your legs, wear knee – length shorts or lightweight long pants. If you choose shorts, make sure they are not too short or too loose. You want to ensure that your skin is protected from the wind, especially during the free – fall. For shoes, sandals are a no – go. Stick to closed – toe shoes, and if it’s very hot, breathable mesh – style athletic shoes can be a great option.
It’s also crucial to bring a light jacket or a windbreaker. Even on the hottest summer days, the air at 10,000 feet or more can be chilly. A thin, packable windbreaker that you can easily stow away when not in use is perfect.
Fall (September – November)
Fall in Chicago brings cooler temperatures and more frequent wind. Similar to spring, layering is key. Start with a long – sleeved base layer, such as a merino wool shirt. Merino wool is great because it’s not only warm but also naturally odor – resistant. Over this, add a mid – layer, like a fleece vest or a light sweater. Top it off with a waterproof and windproof jacket. The fall season can bring rain showers, so a waterproof outer layer will keep you dry.
For your lower body, long pants are a must. Fleece – lined leggings or thick hiking pants are suitable choices. Again, wear comfortable socks and closed – toe shoes. Hiking boots are a great option as they provide warmth and support in the cooler, often damp fall conditions.
Winter (December – February)
Winter skydiving in Chicago is a whole different ballgame due to the extremely cold temperatures. You need to bundle up to stay warm and safe. Begin with multiple base layers. A thermal long – sleeved shirt and thermal long johns are essential. Look for ones made of synthetic materials or merino wool, as they are excellent at retaining heat.
Add a thick fleece jacket or a down – filled jacket as a mid – layer. The outer layer should be a heavy – duty, waterproof, and windproof parka. Make sure it has a hood to protect your head from the cold wind. For your legs, wear thick ski pants or insulated snowboarding pants.
Don’t forget about your extremities. Wear a warm hat that covers your ears, preferably a balaclava or a beanie. Gloves are also crucial. Look for thick, insulated gloves that still allow you to move your fingers enough to operate any necessary equipment. And of course, wear thick, warm socks and insulated winter boots.
Clothing Material
Breathability
Regardless of the season, the material of your clothing should be breathable. When you’re skydiving, your body will be under stress, and you may sweat. If your clothes don’t allow air to circulate, you’ll feel uncomfortable, and in extreme cases, it can even lead to heat – related illnesses in the summer or hypothermia in the winter. Fabrics like cotton, merino wool, and synthetic blends with moisture – wicking properties are great choices. Cotton is breathable and comfortable, but it doesn’t dry as quickly as synthetic materials. Merino wool is breathable, wicks moisture, and retains heat, making it suitable for all seasons. Synthetic blends, such as polyester with spandex, are often designed specifically for outdoor activities and are highly breathable and quick – drying.
Durability
The clothing you wear for skydiving should be durable. You’ll be subjected to high winds, and there’s a possibility of minor abrasions during landing. Avoid wearing delicate or easily – torn fabrics. Jeans, while not the most breathable option, are durable and can withstand some rough treatment. Hiking pants and jackets made of nylon or polyester blends are also very durable. They are designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor activities and can handle the forces exerted during a skydive.
Fit
The fit of your clothing is extremely important. It should be neither too tight nor too loose. Clothes that are too tight can restrict your movement, which is dangerous during a skydive. You need to be able to move freely to perform the necessary actions, such as adjusting your equipment or preparing for landing. On the other hand, clothes that are too loose can get caught in the parachute lines or flap wildly in the wind, causing discomfort and potentially interfering with your jump. Opt for clothing that fits snugly but allows for a full range of motion. Athletic – style clothing, like joggers and fitted tops, often provides the right balance of fit and mobility.
Specific Clothing Items
Jumpsuit (Optional but Recommended)
Many skydiving centers in Chicago provide jumpsuits for their customers. If not, wearing a jumpsuit is still a great idea. A jumpsuit offers several advantages. First, it provides an extra layer of protection. It can shield your body from the wind and reduce the risk of abrasions. Second, it helps to streamline your body during the free – fall, which can make the experience more comfortable and efficient. Jumpsuits are usually made of durable, lightweight materials like nylon. They often have multiple pockets where you can store small items like your goggles or a camera (if allowed). If you choose to wear a jumpsuit, make sure it fits properly. It should be tight enough around the wrists and ankles to prevent air from rushing in but not so tight that it restricts your movement.
Helmet and Goggles
A helmet is an absolute must for skydiving. In Chicago, all reputable skydiving centers will provide you with a well – maintained helmet. The helmet protects your head from potential impacts during landing or in case of any unforeseen incidents. When choosing a helmet, make sure it fits snugly on your head. It should not wobble or move around. There are different types of helmets available, including full – face helmets and open – face helmets. Full – face helmets offer more protection, especially for your face, but they can be a bit heavier. Open – face helmets are lighter and provide better ventilation but offer less facial protection.
Goggles are also essential. They protect your eyes from the wind, dust, and debris. Without goggles, the strong wind during the free – fall can make it difficult to keep your eyes open, which can affect your vision and your overall experience. Goggles should fit tightly around your eyes without causing discomfort. They should also have an anti – fog coating to prevent the lenses from fogging up, especially during the descent when the air temperature changes.
Gloves
Gloves are important for several reasons. In cold weather, they keep your hands warm, which is crucial for maintaining dexterity. Even in warmer weather, gloves can protect your hands from the wind and prevent blisters or abrasions. When choosing gloves for skydiving, look for ones that are flexible enough to allow you to operate the parachute controls. Leather gloves are a popular choice as they are durable and provide good protection. There are also synthetic gloves available that are lightweight and offer excellent grip and flexibility. Make sure the gloves fit well. They should not be too loose, as they could slip off, and not too tight, as this could restrict blood flow to your hands.
Footwear
As mentioned earlier, closed – toe shoes are a must for skydiving. Your footwear should provide good ankle support. During landing, there is a chance that you may land awkwardly, and having proper ankle support can prevent injuries. Tennis shoes, hiking boots, and even some types of work boots are suitable. Avoid wearing shoes with high heels or sandals. High – heeled shoes are dangerous as they can make it difficult to balance during landing, and sandals do not provide any protection for your feet. The shoes should fit comfortably, with enough room for your toes to move slightly but not so much that your foot slides around inside the shoe.
Accessories
Sunglasses (Optional but Useful)
If you’re skydiving on a sunny day, sunglasses can be a great addition to your gear. They can reduce glare and make it easier to see the scenery around you. However, make sure they fit securely on your face. You don’t want them to fly off during the free – fall. Some people prefer to wear their regular prescription sunglasses with a strap to keep them in place. Others choose to use goggles with tinted lenses, which can serve the same purpose as sunglasses while also protecting your eyes from the wind.
Hats
In addition to the helmet, wearing a hat can provide extra warmth or protection from the sun. In cold weather, a warm hat like a balaclava or a beanie can keep your head and ears warm. In the summer, a baseball cap or a sun hat can protect your face from the sun’s rays. Just like with sunglasses, make sure the hat fits securely. You don’t want it to blow off during the jump.
Jewelry and Other Accessories
It’s best to avoid wearing jewelry when skydiving. Necklaces, bracelets, and rings can get caught in the parachute lines or equipment, which can be dangerous. Earrings should also be removed or covered with tape to prevent them from being ripped out. If you have long hair, it’s a good idea to tie it back securely. You don’t want your hair to get in your face or caught in the equipment.
Conclusion
Choosing the right clothing and gear for skydiving in Chicago is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Consider the weather conditions of the season you’re jumping in and select appropriate layers. Opt for breathable, durable materials that fit well. Don’t forget about the specific items like helmets, goggles, gloves, and proper footwear. Accessories should be kept to a minimum and should not pose any safety risks. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well – prepared to take the leap and enjoy the thrill of skydiving in the beautiful city of Chicago. Whether you’re a first – time jumper or a seasoned pro, the right attire can make all the difference in your skydiving adventure.
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