Tandem Skydiving: What to Wear for Safety, Comfort, and Performance at Skydive Elsinore
What you choose to wear on the day of your tandem skydive plays a direct role in your safety, your comfort, and ultimately, the quality of your overall experience—especially when it’s your very first jump. Selecting the right attire will help you focus on the incredible adventure ahead, rather than being distracted by discomfort or potential hazards.
This blog explains how to dress for your tandem skydive at Skydive Elsinore. We’ll cover what to wear, what to avoid, and how the right outfit enhances both your performance in freefall and your peace of mind. Skydive Elsinore has been operating since 1958 and is one of the most experienced drop zones in North America. With thousands of first-time jumpers guided every year, we know what works—and what doesn’t—when it comes to gear.
Why What You Wear Matters in a Tandem Skydive
The clothing you wear during a tandem skydive interacts with several key elements of the experience. Firstly, it affects wind resistance. Loose or bulky clothing can catch the wind, potentially making your freefall less stable and less comfortable for both you and your instructor. Secondly, your attire can impact the fit and function of the safety harness. Properly fitted harnesses are crucial for your security throughout the jump. Bulky seams or ill-fitting garments can interfere with the harness straps, compromising their effectiveness.
What’s more, your clothing should allow for a full range of body movement. During freefall and under the parachute, you will need to be able to arch your body and lift your legs for landing, as instructed. Restrictive clothing can hinder these movements. Lastly, temperature changes at altitude are a factor to consider. Even on a warm day on the ground, the air can feel significantly cooler at 14,000 feet. Dressing appropriately will help you maintain a comfortable body temperature throughout your skydive.
Choosing the right clothing ensures that your focus remains on the breathtaking views and the unparalleled thrill of freefall, rather than on discomfort or distractions caused by inappropriate attire. It’s important to address some common misconceptions. For example, wearing heavy clothes won’t make you fall faster or feel safer; in fact, it can hinder movement and comfort. Similarly, wearing shorts offers no protection against the wind or potential abrasion and can be uncomfortable under the harness.
Tandem Skydiving Clothing Essentials
What to Wear:
- Top: Opt for fitted, moisture-wicking long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirts. Moisture-wicking fabrics will help keep you dry and comfortable. Avoid bulky layers like thick sweaters or multiple loose shirts, as these can interfere with the harness.
- Bottom: Choose athletic pants or snug-fitting leggings. These allow for freedom of movement and fit comfortably under the leg straps of the harness.
- Shoes: Secure, lace-up sneakers or athletic shoes are essential. They must fit snugly and stay on your feet during freefall and landing.
- Hair and Accessories: If you have long hair, tie it back securely to prevent it from obstructing your vision or the instructor’s. Remove all jewelry, watches, and any other loose items that could potentially get lost or become a hazard during the jump.
What to Avoid:
- Loose-fitting clothing: Avoid baggy shirts, wide-leg pants, or anything that might shift or flap excessively in the wind, potentially getting caught in the equipment.
- Hooded sweatshirts, scarves, or clothing with dangling cords or zippers: These items pose a risk of getting snagged on the harness or other equipment.
- Open-toed or slip-on footwear: Sandals, flip-flops, boots with hooks, or heels are strictly prohibited as they are not secure and could easily come off during the jump or impede a safe landing.
Dressing for the Season at Skydive Elsinore
Skydive Elsinore’s location in Southern California offers good weather most of the year, but temperature changes with altitude can still catch people off guard.
Cooler Months
Temperatures drop quickly as you ascend. Wear base layers under your clothes, such as thermals or long underwear. Thin gloves may also help, especially during morning jumps. Bring a lightweight, windproof jacket if you’re unsure—your instructor will guide you on whether to wear it.
Warmer Months
Even in summer, mornings can be cool. Wear breathable, moisture-wicking clothes that still provide coverage. Avoid tank tops or shorts that leave skin exposed. Protection matters more than sun exposure at 14,000 feet.
Skydive Elsinore staff provides a pre-jump briefing that includes gear checks and final clothing adjustments. If you’re unsure about your outfit, ask. We’re here to help.
What Skydive Elsinore Provides vs. What You Bring
Provided by Skydive Elsinore
Skydive Elsinore ensures that every jumper has access to high-quality, well-maintained gear. This includes jumpsuits (if needed), goggles (even suitable for glasses wearers), harnesses, and helmets if required.
What You Bring
Your role is simple—arrive with appropriate base clothing, secure athletic shoes, and any necessary hair ties. This ensures the outfit you wear works seamlessly with the expert-provided equipment.
By minimising the gear you need to supply, Skydive Elsinore allows you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than worrying about preparation.
Experienced vs. First-Time Skydivers—Is There a Difference in Gear?
Yes, there are differences—but they’re not about style. They’re about purpose.
Licensed or experienced skydivers often wear custom jumpsuits, helmets with communication systems, or advanced altimeters. These items reflect their training and personal preferences.
Tandem skydivers, on the other hand, follow a streamlined approach. All the necessary equipment is provided and managed by the instructor. This ensures your attention stays on the experience, not on learning or operating equipment.
At Skydive Elsinore, safety is non-negotiable. Our instructors are certified, experienced, and fully responsible for all gear checks. That includes adjusting your harness, fitting your goggles, and guiding you through body positioning. Wearing simple, functional clothing ensures you stay comfortable and safe—without distraction.
Ready to feel the rush from 14,000 feet?
Skydiving is a life-changing experience—but only if you can fully focus on the moment. The right clothing keeps you safe, stable, and comfortable, so your energy can go toward the jump, not your outfit.
Whether you’re jumping in July or January, dressing correctly enhances your performance and peace of mind. Our instructors will support you every step of the way, from briefing to landing.
Book your tandem skydive at Skydive Elsinore and let our experienced team help you prepare for every moment—from your shoes to your landing.
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