Is a new or a used parachute better?

There is no single answer: new gear starts its history with you, while well-documented used gear costs less and is the most common choice. The deciding factor is the paperwork, not the age of the equipment.

Do I have to buy equipment to start the AFF course?

No. During the course you use the school's equipment. Buying makes sense afterwards, when you move on to solo jumps and know what to ask of your canopies.

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New or used parachute: how to choose

Published on September 19, 2026 · 4 min read

New or used parachute? Used gear is the most common way in and, chosen well, it is a sensible option: what counts is the paperwork, the number of jumps and inspections in order. New gear costs more, but the equipment's history starts with you. Either way you need up-to-date quotes and the guidance of an instructor or a rigger.

Your first jump requires no purchase at all: you jump tandem with the school's equipment. The choice between new and used comes later, when skydiving turns into a path of its own.

Key points

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A complete parachute is a system: container, main canopy, reserve and AAD.
Used gear is worth it only with paperwork in order: logbook, repacks, compatibility and AAD service life.
New gear costs more, but the equipment's traceability starts with you.
Lifespan depends on use and maintenance, not on the calendar.
Beyond the parachute you also need a helmet, altimeter, jumpsuit, goggles and logbook.
The first step is not buying: it is the AFF course, with the school's equipment.
On prices, ask for up-to-date quotes: no undocumented figures in this guide.

What does a complete parachute system include?

A complete individual system is made up of four main elements, plus personal accessories.

Component	Role
Container with harness	The structure you wear, housing main, reserve and devices
Main canopy	The parachute that opens at altitude and manages the descent
Reserve canopy	The second parachute, packed and certified by a qualified technician
AAD	The automatic device that monitors altitude and speed and can deploy the reserve

To these you add a helmet, altimeter, goggles, jumpsuit and logbook. They belong in the budget along with maintenance: buying a parachute is the start of a care relationship, not a one-off purchase.

New or used: what really changes?

Used gear is the most common way in, and chosen well it is a sensible option. New gear gives you a history that starts with you; used gear asks for more checking.

Before you buy: a logbook with the number of jumps, reserve documentation, compatibility between components and the AAD's remaining service life.

The golden rule: take an instructor or a rigger with you, the technician who assembles and certifies the gear.

Used gear without paperwork can cost you more than new gear; used gear with its documents in order is often the best deal around.

How much does a parachute cost? You need an up-to-date quote

How much a parachute costs is the right question, but there is no fixed price: it depends on model, materials, condition and accessories. Current values are listed by specialist dealers.

On prices, trust up-to-date quotes, not the historical numbers that circulate on forums. Before any negotiation, ask the dealer for a written quote or go through your instructor.

How long does a parachute last?

A well-kept canopy lasts many years and thousands of jumps: what counts is use, storage and maintenance, not the passing of time.

The reserve must be repacked periodically by a qualified technician; the AAD has maintenance intervals set by the manufacturer.

The real cost of ownership comes from maintenance over time, not from the purchase price alone.

Documentation and regular inspections make the difference between gear that still holds its value years later and gear worth half as much.

What else do you need besides the parachute?

Beyond the four main elements you need a helmet, altimeter, protective goggles, a jumpsuit and a logbook. They cost less than the system itself, but they belong in the budget together with repacks and servicing.

The first step is not buying: it is the AFF course

Training first, equipment second. During the AFF skydiving course you use the school's system, maintained to standard. You will buy your own parachute later, guided by the instructor who follows you all the way to your licence.

If the path appeals to you, the AFF course page has the programme, the requirements and how to sign up.

Ready to take the first step? The AFF course is the way to become a skydiver, not just a passenger.

Frequently asked questions

Is a new or a used parachute better?: There is no single answer: new gear starts its history with you, while well-documented used gear costs less and is the most common choice. The deciding factor is the paperwork, not the age of the equipment.
What should I check before buying a used parachute?: A logbook with the number of jumps, documentation of the reserve repacks, compatibility between components and the AAD's remaining service life. Then the final check: take an instructor or a rigger with you.
How much does a parachute cost?: There is no fixed price: it depends on model, materials and condition. Current values are listed by specialist dealers, with up-to-date quotes.
How long does a parachute last?: A well-kept canopy lasts many years and thousands of jumps: use and maintenance are what matter. The reserve must be repacked periodically; the AAD has intervals set by the manufacturer.
Do I have to buy equipment to start the AFF course?: No. During the course you use the school's equipment. Buying makes sense afterwards, when you move on to solo jumps and know what to ask of your canopies.