Indoor skydiving, also known as wind tunnel flying, is an exhilarating activity that mimics the sensation of freefall without jumping out of an airplane. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or a seasoned enthusiast, wearing the right gear is crucial for both safety and enjoyment. From head to toe, each piece of clothing and accessory serves a specific purpose in enhancing your flight experience and protecting you during the activity. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about dressing for indoor skydiving, from base layers to accessories, so you can focus on mastering your flight skills with confidence.
The Basics of Indoor Skydiving Attire
Before diving into specific clothing items, let’s understand the environment. Indoor skydiving takes place in a vertical wind tunnel where powerful fans generate winds up to 180 mph (290 km/h). The air is controlled, but the high-speed airflow can affect loose clothing, and the indoor temperature is typically kept comfortable, around 68–75°F (20–24°C). Your outfit should prioritize:
Safety: No loose parts that could get caught in the wind or equipment.
Mobility: Freedom of movement to assume proper body positions (like arching or flaring limbs).
Comfort: Breathable materials to stay cool during physical activity.
Functionality: Clothing that helps you control your body in the airflow.
Upper Body: Shirts and Jackets
Base Layer: T-Shirts or Long-Sleeved Tops
Material: Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics (like polyester or spandex blends) that draw sweat away from your skin. Cotton is acceptable for short sessions but can feel heavy if you sweat a lot.
Fit: Choose fitted or semi-fitted shirts—not overly tight, but not baggy. Loose shirts can billow in the wind, making it harder to control your posture. For example, a snug athletic shirt or a lightweight rash guard works well.
Sleeves: Short sleeves are common for beginners, but long sleeves offer two benefits: (Sunburn prevention) Some wind tunnels use bright lights that can feel intense on bare skin. (Skin protection) Long sleeves reduce friction if you lean against the tunnel walls (a common beginner mistake).
Outer Layer: Jackets or Windbreakers (Optional)
When to wear one: Experienced flyers sometimes use lightweight jackets to enhance stability or practice advanced maneuvers. Beginners usually don’t need a jacket, as it adds complexity.
Key features: If you do wear a jacket, ensure it’s fitted, zipped up, and has no loose flaps or hoods. A thin fleece or a wind-resistant jacket with minimal padding is best. Avoid bulky coats, as they can create too much drag.
Lower Body: Pants and Legwear
Pants: Fit and Fabric Matter
Avoid loose styles: Baggy sweatpants or wide-leg jeans are a no-go. The airflow can inflate loose pants like balloons, making it difficult to maintain proper leg positioning (such as keeping your legs slightly apart and straight).
Ideal Choices
Athletic pants: Slim-fit joggers or stretchy track pants with a tapered leg. Look for materials with some spandex for flexibility.
Jeans: Stiff, baggy jeans are problematic, but slim-fit or skinny jeans can work if they’re not too tight. Ensure they don’t restrict bending at the knees.
Jumpsuits: Some wind tunnels offer rental jumpsuits, which are designed for optimal airflow. These are usually lightweight and fitted, zipping up the front.
Waistbands: Choose pants with a secure waistband—either elastic or a drawstring that can be tightened completely (no loose strings dangling). Avoid belts with large buckles, as they may dig in or get caught.
Shorts: A Controversial Choice
Why they’re risky: Shorts expose your legs to potential scrapes from tunnel walls. Additionally, the airflow can blow fabric up, causing discomfort or distraction.
When to wear them: Only if the wind tunnel allows it and you’re an experienced flyer. If you do wear shorts, pair them with knee pads for protection.
Footwear: The Critical Choice for Stability
Avoid These Shoes
Open-toed shoes: Sandals, flip-flops, or shoes with exposed toes are unsafe. The airflow can push your feet around, and there’s a risk of stubbing toes on the tunnel floor.
Slippery soles: Shoes with smooth bottoms (like ballet flats or some leather shoes) offer no grip, making it hard to stand steady during takeoff or landing.
High heels or boots: Heels throw off your balance, and tall boots can restrict ankle movement.
Ideal Footwear
Athletic sneakers: Choose well-fitted, lace-up sneakers with rubber soles. Look for shoes with a flat, non-slip tread (like running shoes or cross-trainers). Brands like Nike, Adidas, or New Balance work well.
Tennis shoes: Classic tennis shoes are a great option, as they’re lightweight and provide good arch support.
Sock choice: Wear athletic socks that stay up (no low-cut “no-show” socks). Thick socks can improve comfort if your shoes are slightly loose.
Pro tip: Tie your shoelaces twice (double knot) to ensure they don’t come undone in the wind. Some wind tunnels may ask you to tuck laces into your shoes to prevent them from flapping.
Accessories: Keep It Minimal
Remove all jewelry: Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings are strictly prohibited. Even small stud earrings can get pulled by the wind, causing injury. Nose rings or facial piercings should also be removed or covered.
Why: A loose necklace could strangle you or wrap around your limbs, while a ring might twist and damage your finger in the airflow.
Hair Accessories
Long hair: Always tie it back securely. Use a hair elastic or scrunchie (no metal clips), and consider braiding it if it’s very long. Loose hair can whip around and obscure your vision or get caught in the wind.
Short hair: If your hair is shoulder-length, still tie it back to keep it out of your face.
Gloves (Optional for Experienced Flyers)
When to use them: Some advanced flyers wear thin gloves to enhance control during tricks, as they can grip the air slightly better. Beginners usually don’t need gloves.
What to choose: Lightweight, fingerless gloves or thin cycling gloves. Avoid thick winter gloves, as they restrict hand movement.
Wind tunnel goggles: Most facilities provide goggles to protect your eyes from the strong airflow. These are essential, as the wind can make it hard to keep your eyes open.
Sunglasses: Don’t wear sunglasses unless they’re secured tightly and have no loose parts. Tunnel-provided goggles are safer and more reliable.
Special Considerations for Different Flyers
Children and Teens
Fit is key: Kids’ clothing should be snug but not restrictive. Use elastic waistbands and adjustable straps where possible.
Layering: Kids often get warm quickly, so dress them in moisture-wicking layers they can remove if needed (e.g., a tank top under a lightweight shirt).
Shoes: Ensure their sneakers are securely tied—parents may need to help with double-knotting.
Plus-Size Flyers
Stretch fabrics: Look for clothing with spandex or elastane to accommodate movement. Brands like Athleta or Old Navy offer inclusive athletic wear.
Avoid restrictive styles: Opt for high-waisted pants with a wide elastic band for comfort, and choose shirts with a relaxed (not baggy) fit.
Jumpsuits: Some wind tunnels have larger rental jumpsuits; call ahead to inquire.
Cold Weather vs. Warm Weather
Indoor temperature is stable: Unlike outdoor skydiving, indoor wind tunnels are climate-controlled. However, you might feel cooler if you’re sweating during flight.
Layering strategy: Wear a base layer (moisture-wicking shirt) and a light mid-layer (like a fleece vest) that you can remove if you get warm. Avoid heavy layers that restrict movement.
What the Wind Tunnel Provides: Rental Gear
Helmet: Required for all flyers, to protect your head in case of contact with the tunnel walls.
Goggles: To shield your eyes from the wind.
Jumpsuit (optional): Some facilities offer jumpsuits as an extra layer, especially for first-timers. These are usually clean and sanitized between uses.
Checklist: What to Wear (and What to Leave Behind)
Pack in Your Bag: Fitted athletic shirt (short or long-sleeved),Slim-fit pants or athletic joggers,Lace-up sneakers with rubber soles,Hair ties (no metal), Moisture-wicking underwear (see below)
Optional: lightweight jacket for advanced flyers
Leave at Home: Loose clothing (hoodies, baggy sweatpants), Jewelry of any kind, Open-toed shoes or sandals, Belts with large buckles, Heavy coats or bulky layers, Metal hair clips or accessories, Underwear and Layers
Don’t Overlook the Basics
Underwear
Supportive and snug: For women, a sports bra is recommended to prevent discomfort during movement. For men, athletic briefs or boxer-briefs that stay in place are best.
Avoid thongs: They can shift and cause discomfort in the wind.
Base layer: Prioritize breathability. A synthetic base layer (like Under Armour) works better than cotton for long sessions.
Mid layer: Only add a mid layer if you tend to get cold, and make sure it’s thin (e.g., a lightweight fleece). Avoid thick sweaters, as they restrict arm movement.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Wearing baggy clothes: This is the most common error among beginners. Loose fabric creates drag, making it harder to control your body. Imagine trying to swim in a parachute—that’s what baggy clothes feel like in the wind tunnel!
Forgetting to tie shoes properly: Untied shoes can fly off, hitting you or others in the tunnel. Always double-knot them.
Leaving jewelry on: Even a small earring can become a projectile in high winds. Take it all off before suiting up.
Ignoring hair safety: A loose ponytail can whip around and hit you in the face, distracting you from your flight.
Conclusion
Dressing for indoor skydiving boils down to three principles: safety, mobility, and comfort. By choosing fitted, breathable clothing, secure footwear, and minimal accessories, you’ll create an outfit that lets you focus on mastering the art of wind tunnel flying. Remember, the goal is to feel confident and unrestricted, so you can enjoy the thrill of freefall in a controlled environment. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular flyer, taking the time to prepare your attire properly will enhance your experience. If you’re unsure about anything, don’t hesitate to contact the wind tunnel staff—they’re there to help you have a safe and unforgettable flight. Now, gear up, hit the tunnel, and let the wind carry you to new heights!