WHAT TO WEAR SKYDIVING
You’re about to step into one of the most thrilling experiences on the planet—so naturally, you might be wondering what to wear skydiving. The right skydiving outfit plays a huge role in your comfort, safety, and overall enjoyment. Dress smart, and you’ll be free to focus on the adrenaline, the views, and the once-in-a-lifetime moment ahead.
Let’s break down exactly what to wear for skydiving so you feel confident, comfortable, and ready to fly with Skydive Raleigh.
SAFTEY FIRST
Before we get into style choices, it’s important to understand one thing: skydiving clothing is about safety first.
Skydiving is a highly technical sport where small details matter—and what you wear is no exception.
What to Wear for Skydiving (Yes, You Can Still Look Good)
We get it—you want to look great, especially if you’re planning to share that epic skydiving video afterward. The good news? You can absolutely look good and dress safely at the same time.
When deciding what to wear skydiving, keep these three principles in mind:
Comfortable
Skydiving is exhilarating—don’t let uncomfortable clothes distract you. Choose athletic or moisture-wicking fabrics that allow you to move freely and stay dry. If you’re constantly adjusting your outfit, it’s not the right choice.
Adaptable
Temperatures change quickly at altitude—often 30–40 degrees cooler than on the ground. Light layers are your best friend, especially on cooler days.
Secure
During freefall, you’ll be traveling at around 120 mph. Anything loose, floppy, or poorly secured can become uncomfortable—or disappear forever. Choose clothing and shoes that stay put in high winds.
CLOTHES FOR SKYDIVING
When selecting skydiving clothes, aim for a snug but flexible fit that won’t restrict movement. Stretchy materials like spandex or athletic blends are ideal.
In some cases, you may also wear a skydiving jumpsuit over your clothing. These are made from durable materials like nylon, cordura, spandex, or polycotton and provide extra protection, comfort, and improved aerodynamics.
Some of the best clothing types for your skydive are:
Snug, Layer-Friendly Fit
Choose thinner, fitted layers that won’t bunch up under additional clothing. A tank top or fitted tee paired with a lightweight long-sleeve shirt works well.
Stretchy and Durable
Skydiving involves bending, crouching, and moving into different body positions. Your clothes should stretch easily and withstand both freefall wind and landing slides.
Simple and Clean
Avoid clothing with zippers, buttons, tassels, drawstrings, collars, or loose fabric. These can create snag hazards or cause discomfort at high speeds. Hoodies, fringe, and oversized layers are best left at home.
SHOES FOR SKYDIVING
Choosing the right footwear is one of the most important parts of your skydiving outfit.
Shoes to Avoid
- Boots
- High heels
- Cleats
- Sandals, flip-flops, or slip-ons
- Anything that exposes your feet
Best Shoes for Skydiving
- Closed-Toe Athletic Shoes
Running shoes or sneakers that fully cover your foot are ideal. - Flat Soles
Flat-bottom shoes are especially helpful during landings, as they’re less likely to snag on the ground. - Secure Fit
Shoes should lace tightly or use elastic/lock laces. Loose laces can flap painfully during freefall—and trust us, that’s not a sensation you want to remember.
ACCESSORIES & SKYDIVING
When it comes to accessories, less is more. Jewelry, watches, and loose items can easily be lost—or damaged—during your jump. Our rule of thumb: if you’d be upset about losing it, don’t wear it.
If you wear glasses, no worries—we provide protective goggles that fit securely over them, keeping your vision clear and your glasses safe.
Ready to Dress for the Skies?
Now that you know exactly what to wear skydiving, you’re one step closer to an unforgettable adventure. Dress smart, stay comfortable, and let the experience speak for itself.
Ready to jump? Book your tandem skydive here. Still have questions? Contact us!
