If you’re planning your first skydiving experience, one of the most common questions is:
“What should I wear for skydiving?”
Wearing the right clothes is not just about comfort — it directly affects safety, performance, and overall experience. Many first-time skydivers make simple clothing mistakes that can cause discomfort or even risk during the jump.
This guide explains exactly what to wear for your first skydiving jump in the USA, what to avoid, and how to prepare properly so you can enjoy the experience without stress.
Why What You Wear for Skydiving Matters
Skydiving is not like normal outdoor activity. During the jump:
- Wind speed can exceed 120 mph
- Temperature drops significantly at altitude
- Loose clothing can flap dangerously
- Improper shoes can affect landing safety
That’s why professional drop zones give strict clothing recommendations.
What to Wear for Skydiving the First Time (Recommended Outfit)
1. Comfortable Athletic Clothing (Best Choice)
The best clothing for skydiving is:
- T-shirt or long-sleeve athletic top
- Joggers, track pants, or leggings
- Breathable fabric
- Flexible and snug fit
Avoid:
- Jeans (restrict movement)
- Baggy clothes
- Dresses or skirts
Skydiving centers provide jumpsuits, but you still need proper inner clothing.
2. Closed-Toe Shoes (Very Important)
Shoes are one of the most important parts of your outfit.
✅ Best options:
- Running shoes
- Sneakers
- Light sports shoes
❌ Avoid:
- Sandals
- Flip-flops
- Boots
- High heels
Your shoes must be:
- Tightly laced
- Comfortable
- Non-slip
3. Layers (Depending on Weather)
Temperature drops roughly 3–5°F for every 1,000 feet of altitude.
If you’re jumping from:
- 10,000–14,000 feet → It will feel cold
- Winter or early morning jumps → Even colder
Wear:
- A light jacket or hoodie
- Thermal base layer (if cold season)
Avoid bulky jackets that restrict harness fitting.
4. What NOT to Wear While Skydiving
This is just as important as what to wear.
❌ Don’t wear:
- Jewelry (earrings, chains, watches)
- Loose scarves
- Hooded sweatshirts
- Contact lenses (prefer glasses)
- Anything with sharp edges
These can:
- Fly off during freefall
- Interfere with safety gear
- Cause injury
What Skydiving Centers Usually Provide
Most US skydiving centers provide:
- Professional jumpsuit
- Helmet
- Goggles
- Safety harness
You do not need to buy special skydiving gear for your first jump.
If you’re wondering about safety rules and preparation, this guide explains it clearly:
How Safe Is Skydiving in the USA
What to Wear Based on Season (USA)
Summer:
- Light t-shirt
- Athletic pants
- Sunscreen (before jump)
Winter:
- Thermal layer
- Gloves (if allowed)
- Wind-resistant top
Fall / Spring:
- Layered clothing
- Light jacket
Can You Wear Glasses or Contacts?
✅ Glasses: Allowed (goggles fit over them)
⚠️ Contacts: Allowed, but risky due to wind
❌ Sunglasses: Not allowed
Most drop zones provide protective goggles that fit over glasses.
Why Clothing Matters for Safety
Wearing improper clothing can:
- Cause harness discomfort
- Increase injury risk
- Reduce instructor control
- Affect landing stability
If you’re interested in understanding accident risks and responsibility, read:
👉 Who Pays the Hospital Bill After a Skydiving Accident
Quick Checklist Before Your First Skydive
✔ Comfortable athletic clothing
✔ Closed-toe shoes
✔ No jewelry
✔ Weather-appropriate layers
✔ Hair tied back
✔ ID and booking confirmation
Final Thoughts
Wearing the right clothes for your first skydive ensures:
- Maximum comfort
- Better safety
- More enjoyable experience
- Zero last-minute stress
Skydiving is already a thrilling experience — the right outfit makes it smooth and memorable.
