If you’re gearing up for your next jump (or your very first), one of the most common questions we hear is: “What do I need to bring?” Here is your Skydiving Gear Guide…
Whether you’re a student, tandem jumper, or licensed skydiver, there are a few key items that make your experience not only smoother-but safer, more comfortable, and way more enjoyable. This guide walks you through the essentials we recommend at Skydive Suffolk, with some expert picks you can grab right here on our site.
👕 What to Wear (and What Not To)
1. Clothing:
- Stick to close-fitting, flexible layers-athletic wear, leggings, fleece tops.
- Avoid loose items like scarves, jackets, or baggy jeans. They catch wind during freefall or can get tangled.
- Pro tip: Wear sturdy sneakers-the kind you’d run in. Sandals or slip-ons are a no-go.
👕 CLOTHING: FUNCTIONAL + COMFORTABLE
✓ Skydive Suffolk T-Shirt
Skydiving is a sport-so dress like you’re heading to the gym, not a fashion show. Our soft cotton tees are breathable, flexible, and perfect for layering under a jumpsuit or wearing casually post-jump.
Why it matters: Cotton or synthetic blend tops help regulate body temperature and reduce skin irritation under your rig. Avoid bulky clothing or anything that flaps excessively.
2. No Jewelry or Dangling Accessories:
- Bracelets, necklaces, or anything that can snag or hit your face/harness during freefall should stay on the ground.
🧤 ACCESSORIES THAT KEEP YOU READY
✓ Neck Gaiter
Helps protect your neck from the windblast and adds warmth during chilly altitude climbs.
✓ Viso II+ Elastic Armband
Designed to hold your altimeter securely and visibly on your arm. If you’re using a Viso II, make sure you grab the corresponding band!
Why it matters: At 120mph, accessories can make or break your comfort and focus. Neck gaiters reduce skin chafing and ear irritation, while a snug altimeter mount ensures you’re always altitude-aware.
3. Weather-Aware Layering:
- Mornings/still airfields can be chilly-grab a light top. Once you’re in freefall and canopy, you’ll warm up fast.
🧠 ALTITUDE AWARENESS = LIFE-SAVING
✓ Optima II Audible Altimeter
✓ Quattro Audible Altimeter
✓ Mercury Jade Audible Altimeter
These sit inside your helmet and beep at pre-set altitudes to alert you when it’s time to deploy, track, or prepare for landing.
✓ Atlas II or Ares II Digital Altimeters
These digital wrist-mounted options are durable, highly visible, and easy to operate.
Why it matters: Altimeters are your best friend in the sky. Audible devices keep your awareness sharp even when you’re focused on body position or formation. Visual ones give you an instant readout to cross-check.
🪖 HELMETS: PROTECTION MEETS STYLE
✓ Cookie G4 (Matte Black, Matte Charcoal)
✓ G35 Series (Multiple Colors: Red, Green, Royal Blue, Charcoal, Multicam)
The G4 and G35 helmets are designed with impact-resistant materials and full-face coverage. Add-ons like utility or top plates can be purchased separately for personalization.
Why it matters: Helmets aren’t optional in most skydiving operations. Full-face designs like the Cookie G4 reduce wind noise, protect your jaw, and are compatible with audibles. Open-face variants may be used in specific disciplines.
⌚ TECH + TOOLS FOR TRAINING & PERFORMANCE
✓ Garmin SmartWatches (Instinct, Venu 3, Fenix 7 Series)
Track your heart rate, jump times, elevation, and even weather conditions.
✓ Garmin QuickFit Bands (18–26 mm)
Customize the look and feel of your Garmin for ground or sky use.
✓ Protrack II Audible Altimeter
Specifically built for skydivers, with advanced logging and real-time climb/descent rate info.
Why it matters: Smartwatches and training tools give you data to improve performance, monitor recovery, and log jumps. For licensed skydivers, these become key tools in progressing skills.
🪂 EMERGENCY BACKUP: FOR LICENSED SKYDIVERS
✓ PD Optimum Reserve
✓ PD Reserve
Your reserve canopy is your last line of defense. Performance Designs is one of the most trusted names in the industry.
Why it matters: No skydiver ever wants to use their reserve-but you always want it to work flawlessly if you do. Investing in a reliable reserve is non-negotiable.
🎒 BONUS ITEMS WORTH PACKING
✓ Precision 500 Logbook – Keep track of every jump for licenses, ratings, and memories.
✓ Renata Battery Cr2325 – Always carry extras for your audibles.
✓ Gaiter, Gloves, and Beanie – Depending on the season, layering smartly will help you stay focused and not frozen!
FINAL THOUGHTS: WHY QUALITY GEAR MATTERS
- Skydiving is an extreme sport-but with the right gear, it becomes a finely tuned experience. Each item on this list was designed not just for convenience, but for safety, performance, and progression.
- At Skydive Suffolk, we don’t just sell gear-we jump with it. Every product we recommend is something our staff, instructors, and jumpers use in real life.
- Ready to gear up? Explore our shop or reach out to our team for help customizing your setup. Your skydiving journey deserves the right start-and the right support.
- Let’s make your next jump your best one yet. 🪂✨
✅ Gear Checklist Before You Arrive
- Foam-lined sneakers, no-slip grip
- Close-fitting athletic clothes
- (Optional) Personal goggles & helmet if you prefer your own
- Bottle of water-stay hydrated
- Shirt pocket or clip-on for altimeter (available for purchase)
- Confidence in your gear: fitted and briefed by pros
Ready to gear up and fly?
Visit our Pro Shop to explore options, and don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance.