Indoor skydiving at iFly is an exhilarating experience that mimics the thrill of real skydiving in a controlled environment. It offers a unique opportunity for adventure enthusiasts to feel the rush of free – falling without the risks associated with jumping out of an airplane. While the focus is often on the incredible sensation of flying, what you wear can significantly impact your comfort, safety, and overall enjoyment during the session. The right clothing and gear not only ensure that you are protected during the flight but also enhance your ability to maneuver and fully embrace the experience. In this guide, we will explore in detail the ideal clothing and gear to wear for iFly indoor skydiving.
Clothing
Upper Body
T-Shirts or Lightweight Tops: Opt for a well – fitting T – shirt made of breathable materials such as cotton or a cotton – blend. These materials allow air to circulate, keeping you cool during the physical activity. Avoid loose – fitting shirts that could get caught in the wind tunnel. A snug fit ensures that the fabric doesn’t billow around, which could disrupt your flight position. If you prefer long – sleeved tops, make sure they are lightweight and not too bulky. Long sleeves can provide a bit more protection against minor abrasions in case you brush against the sides of the wind tunnel, but they should not restrict your movement. For example, a thin, stretchy long – sleeved athletic shirt is a great choice.
Jackets and Outerwear
iFly facilities usually provide jumpsuits for participants. However, if you choose to wear your own outer layer, it should be light and form – fitting. A windbreaker made of nylon or a similar lightweight, wind – resistant material can be suitable, but it should not have excessive zippers, pockets, or loose flaps that could be a hazard in the wind tunnel. Avoid wearing thick, heavy jackets like winter parkas. These not only restrict movement but can also make you overheat during the activity. The key is to have an outer layer that protects you from the wind in the tunnel without adding unnecessary bulk.
Lower Body
Pants: Comfortable, form – fitting pants are essential. Athletic pants, such as yoga pants or track pants made of stretchy materials like spandex or polyester – spandex blends, are excellent choices. They allow for a full range of motion, which is crucial for maintaining the correct body position in the wind tunnel. Jeans are not recommended. They are often too stiff and restrictive, making it difficult to move freely. Additionally, the thick material can cause discomfort during the extended periods of being in a flying position. Cargo pants with multiple large pockets should also be avoided. The pockets can fill with air and create drag, affecting your stability in the wind.
Shorts: If you prefer to wear shorts, they should be of a reasonable length and not too loose. Bermuda – style shorts or athletic shorts that fit snugly around the thighs are good options. However, keep in mind that in the wind tunnel, the air can be quite cool, so shorts may not be the most comfortable choice for everyone. If you do wear shorts, make sure your legs are not overly exposed to avoid any potential chafing or discomfort from the wind.
Footwear
Closed – Toe Shoes: Safety is a top priority in iFly indoor skydiving, and wearing closed – toe shoes is non – negotiable. Running shoes, trainers, or even lightweight hiking shoes are ideal. These shoes provide protection for your toes in case of any accidental bumps or impacts in the wind tunnel. Avoid wearing sandals, flip – flops, or open – toed shoes. The strong wind in the tunnel can easily blow these off your feet, and they offer no protection to your toes. In addition, shoes with high heels are also not suitable as they can affect your balance and stability while flying.
Proper Fit: Your shoes should fit well, neither too tight nor too loose. Tight shoes can cause discomfort and restrict blood circulation, especially during the extended periods of standing and flying. Loose shoes, on the other hand, may come off during the session, which is a safety hazard. Make sure your shoes have a secure fastening system, such as laces or Velcro, to keep them in place.
Head and Hair
Headgear
iFly provides helmets for all participants. These helmets are designed to protect your head in case of any unexpected collisions in the wind tunnel. It is important to wear the helmet correctly, adjusting the straps so that it fits snugly but comfortably on your head. Do not attempt to modify the helmet in any way. Some people may wonder if they can wear their own specialized headgear. In most cases, it is best to use the helmets provided by iFly as they are specifically designed for the indoor skydiving environment. However, if you have a medical condition that requires a special helmet, it is advisable to contact the iFly facility in advance to discuss the options.
Hair
If you have long hair, it is crucial to tie it back securely. Long, loose hair can be a distraction and may even get caught in the wind tunnel machinery, which is extremely dangerous. Use hair ties, braids, or hairnets to keep your hair in place. If you have very long hair, you may consider putting it in a tight bun at the back of your head.
For men with longer hair or beards, it is also a good idea to keep hair neatly groomed. Beards should be trimmed or secured if possible to prevent them from being affected by the strong wind in the tunnel, which could cause discomfort or even interfere with the proper fit of the helmet.
Accessories
Jewelry
Remove all jewelry before entering the wind tunnel. Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings can pose a serious risk. Rings, for example, can get caught on the equipment or in the wind tunnel mesh, potentially causing injury to your fingers. Necklaces can strangle you if they get pulled by the wind. Even small stud earrings can be a problem as they can be dislodged and cause injury to your ear or get stuck in the equipment. If you have body piercings, it is best to cover them or remove the jewelry if possible. This includes nose rings, eyebrow piercings, and tongue piercings. The strong wind in the tunnel can cause these piercings to move or be pulled, leading to pain and potential injury.
Glasses and Contact Lenses
If you wear glasses, it is advisable to consider wearing contact lenses instead for your iFly session. Glasses can be a nuisance in the wind tunnel as they may fog up due to the change in air pressure and your body’s heat. Additionally, they can be knocked off your face by the strong wind, which could be a distraction and potentially dangerous. If you must wear glasses, make sure they fit tightly on your face. Some people use sports – specific glasses with adjustable straps to keep them in place. However, even with these measures, there is still a risk of the glasses shifting or being affected by the wind. Contact lenses provide a more stable and unobstructed view during the indoor skydiving experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right clothing and gear for iFly indoor skydiving is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can ensure that you are comfortable, protected, and able to fully embrace the thrill of flying in the wind tunnel. Remember, the focus should be on safety first, followed by comfort and freedom of movement. So, before you head to your iFly session, take the time to select the appropriate clothing, footwear, and accessories. Whether it’s choosing a breathable T – shirt, a pair of well – fitting athletic pants, and the right shoes, or making sure to remove jewelry and secure your hair, every detail matters. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to soar through the air and create unforgettable memories during your iFly indoor skydiving adventure.
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