Hey, future sky gods and goddesses! So you've caught the skydiving bug, huh? Welcome to the club! But before you can soar like an eagle, you need the right gear. And let's face it, when it comes to skydiving, your rig is your lifeline—literally. So, let's dive right in!
Skydiving Rig Essentials: What's in the Bag? 🎒
First off, let's demystify what a skydiving rig actually includes:
- Main Canopy: Your trusty wingman for every jump.
- Reserve Canopy: The unsung hero, always there in case things get dicey.
- Harness/Container System: The backpack that holds your life (and parachutes) together.
- AAD (Automatic Activation Device): Think of it as your guardian angel that kicks in when you need it the most.
Smart Shopping: What to Look For 🛒
Alright, let's talk about what you should be eyeballing when you're shopping:
- Fit: A snug harness is a happy harness. Comfort and safety go hand in hand.
- Canopy Size: One size doesn't fit all. Your weight and experience level will guide you here.
- AAD: Yes, you need one.
- Budget: Skydiving isn't cheap, but neither is your life. Plan your finances wisely.
Customize Your Skydiving Rig
- Safety Add-ons: we recommend you to look for rigs with extra safety features like M.A.R.D (SkyHook RSL, MOJO etc).
- Functionality: Consider features that suit your skydiving style. Hip rings? Maybe extra padded backpad and legstraps? Planning to do mostly wingsuits? Get dynamic corners. Different manufacturers might have different options. We know it might be confusing at first - but that why we're here - don't hesitate to ask for help.
- Style Points: If you plan to buy new - custom colors and embroidery are available for those looking to make a statement. Yes, you can look fabulous while plummeting from 15,000 feet.
Timing is Everything: When to Buy a Skydiving Rig ⏰
The best time to buy your rig? It depends. After you've completed your Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) course and have an extra handful of jumps under your belt, it's smart to start looking. Skydiving containers are custom tailored for you and the top manufacturers can take up to 4-12 months to deliver. Take that into account and plan your purchase in advance.
New vs. Used: The Showdown 🥊
- New Rigs: Sleek, customizable. A custom tailored rig is a pleasure to jump. But be prepared to shell out some extra bucks. On the other side - skydiving equipment keeps the resale value quite good, so the money isn't gone once you spend it.
- Used Rigs: Easier on the wallet, but make sure the harness size fits you well and it's made for the right size canopy. It's always highly recommended that you get the rig inspected by a certified rigger.
Trusted Sources
- Authorized Dealers: The gold standard for new and used gear. We're proud to be authorized dealers to most of the top manufacturers.
- Online Marketplaces: A treasure trove for used gear, but proceed with caution. There are quite a few Facebook groups where you can find skydiving gear for sale.
Extra Nuggets of Wisdom 🌟
- Consult the Pros: Your instructors aren't just good for funny stories; they know their gear! Use them.
- Resale Value: Some brands hold their value better. Keep that in mind.
- Financing Options: We offer Klarna Financing payment plans. Skydiving on a budget? It's possible.
Conclusion: Your Skydiving Future 🌈
So there you have it, your roadmap to buying your first skydiving rig. It's a big step, but one that will set you on a path to countless skydiving adventures. Do your homework, consult the experts, and make an informed decision. The sky's not the limit; it's just the beginning!
Still Have Questions? We've Got You Covered! 🌟
We know! It's not that easy to choose the rig. You are still not 100% sure which rig is your perfect match? No worries—that's why we're here!
If the article left you wanting more personalized guidance, click the button below to fill up our Personalized Assistance Form. You'll receive the opportunity for one-on-one consultations with our skydiving experts and tailored gear recommendations.
