What to Wear for Skydiving: Complete 2026 Guide

Updated on September 19, 2026 · 8 min read

You're about to do your first jump and you're wondering how to dress for skydiving without getting it wrong? It's a perfectly normal question: choosing the right skydiving clothing helps you feel more comfortable, move better under the harness and experience the jump with greater peace of mind.

In this guide you'll find clear, practical advice on what to wear for skydiving, with a focus on what to wear for a tandem jump, what to avoid and how to adjust depending on the season. The goal: to arrive at the drop zone fully ready, with no doubts and no "surprises".

What to wear for a skydive: the golden rule

If you want a simple rule to understand what to wear for skydiving, it's this: dress as you would for an outdoor sporting activity, choosing comfortable clothes without loose parts.

For a tandem jump, the instructor will put a harness on you and, in many cases, a suit over your clothes. For this very reason, the tandem jump clothing must be practical: it must fit well under your gear, not be too tight, and not have details that could be annoying (drawstrings, bulky hoods, stiff collars).

If you're wondering what to wear for a skydive, the most correct answer is: simple, sporty, clean-cut clothing. It seems trivial, but it's what really works.

How to dress for a tandem jump: what to really choose

When talking about how to dress for a tandem jump, the most common mistake is to overdo it: too many things on, bulky jackets, useless accessories. In reality, the ideal clothes for skydiving are those that allow you to sit comfortably on the plane and move well during the exit and landing phases.

For the tandem jump clothing, these work well:

• long sports trousers or leggings (also tracksuit or technical trousers)
• a comfortable top (better if not too loose)
• a light sweatshirt or extra layer if the season requires it

Think about comfort under the harness: avoid garments with thick seams at the waist or stiff belts, as you may feel them more. For skydiving clothing for beginners, simplicity always wins.

Skydiving shoes: which to use and which to avoid

Shoes matter more than you think. The shoes to use for skydiving are definitely closed shoes, comfortable and well-laced.

The ideal skydiving shoes are sneakers or running shoes with:

• laces (to be tightened well)
• a stable sole
• good grip

Instead, avoid sandals, slippers, open-toed shoes, shoes with hooks or other elements that can get caught. Heavy boots are also not recommended: they're uncomfortable, overheat, and often restrict movement.

How to dress for skydiving in summer

In summer, many people think, "it's hot, so I'll pack light". In reality, during a jump you're at high altitude and you can feel the wind during free fall, so it's best not to overdo it with overly "summery" clothing.

Regarding the summer period, the most practical choice is lightweight but covering sportswear: long, thin trousers and a technical top or comfortable T-shirt. Bring water, too: staying hydrated makes all the difference, especially if you're waiting your turn in the sun.

An often overlooked tip: avoid fabrics that are too smooth and "slippery" as they can move a lot under the harness. In general, for free fall clothing, it's better to have stable items that don't pull or flap around.

How to dress for a winter skydive

In winter, the question is always the same: "will I be cold?". The rule is simple: it's colder at altitude than on the ground — you leave the aircraft at 4,200 metres, as we explain in what altitude you skydive from — so it's best to dress in layers.

If you want to know how to dress for a skydive in winter, its tips are:

• a technical shirt or light thermal underwear
• a non-bulky sweatshirt or fleece
• comfortable long trousers
• light gloves if you feel the cold

The point is not to "stuff up", but to build clothing that keeps you warm without becoming stiff. Parachute jump clothing must allow you to move your legs and arms freely, even during the landing phase.

Can you wear jeans skydiving?

Yes, you can wear jeans for skydiving, but they're not the best choice for everyone. If they're comfortable, stretchy and not constricting, they're fine. However, if they're stiff (like thick denim), they can be uncomfortable under a harness, especially around the waist and behind the knees. Athletic or stretch trousers are always better: more comfort, less worry.

Can you wear glasses while skydiving?

Yes: you'll usually be given protective goggles that go over your glasses and shield your eyes from the wind, and contact lenses are normally no problem either — you'll find all the details in our dedicated guide to skydiving with glasses or contact lenses.

What not to wear for skydiving

The "less is more" rule really applies here. If you want to know what not to wear for skydiving, think of anything that might bother you or move too much. Avoid:

• necklaces, long earrings, bracelets and dangling accessories
• scarves, voluminous hoods, long drawstrings
• shirts with a stiff collar (it tends to flip over in free fall)
• clothes that are too loose or baggy (especially in tandem)

It's not just a question of safety: it's also comfort. Skydiving clothing must stay "in place" while you're wearing the harness and suit.

Here is the quickest possible summary: on one side what is worth wearing, on the other what is better left at home.

Recommended clothing for tandem jumps: a quick checklist

Use this checklist to make sure you have the correct tandem jump clothing and arrive ready for your jump:

• Closed and well-laced sneakers (the best skydiving shoes are the sporty ones)
• Comfortable, sporty or stretch long trousers
• A comfortable top or t-shirt, not too loose
• A light sweatshirt or extra layer if it's cool
• Sportswear without loose or bulky parts
• No accessories such as necklaces, bracelets, scarves or dangling objects
• Long hair tied up, for greater comfort during free fall
• Any personal glasses (they will be protected by the goggles provided)

By following this simple checklist, you'll have the perfect parachute jump clothing to enjoy your jump in total comfort and safety. For everything else — timings and how the day actually unfolds — take a look at what to know before your tandem jump.

How to dress for stress-free tandem skydiving

For a jump, especially if it's your first time, your clothing should make your life easier. Choose comfortable, sporty pieces, without unnecessary details. Pay particular attention to your shoes: they're the most important element after overall comfort.

If you want to arrive 100% prepared, remember this: when it comes to how to dress for a tandem jump, it's more a question of practicality than of "technique". With the right first parachute jump clothing you enjoy the experience, without distractions. Ready to go? Book your jump and come and visit us.

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