Keep Flying High: How to Maintain Your Skydiving Gear for Long-Lasting Performance
· 2 min read
Skydivers spend a few minutes in the air and many hours on the ground, and a fair share of those hours should go into looking after kit. A well-maintained rig opens predictably, wears evenly and lasts longer, which saves money and builds the quiet confidence every jumper wants on the climb to altitude.
The gear and who looks after it
Some maintenance is the jumper's responsibility; some belongs to qualified professionals. Knowing the difference keeps everyone safe.
| Item | Jumper's routine | Professional task |
|---|---|---|
| Main canopy and lines | Visual checks, clean packing area | Relining and repairs by a rigger |
| Reserve parachute | Keep the container closed and dry | Inspection and repack by a certified rigger at required intervals |
| Harness and container | Check stitching, closing loops and hardware | Structural repairs |
| AAD | Note service dates, follow manual | Manufacturer servicing |
| Helmet, altimeter, goggles | Clean, check straps and batteries | Calibration if needed |
Canopy and line care
Inspect the main canopy whenever you pack. Look for small tears, abrasion near the slider grommets and dirt worked into the fabric. Run your hands along the lines to feel for fraying or uneven wear, especially on brake lines that see the most friction. Lines shrink and wear over time, so if openings or flight characteristics begin to change, ask a rigger to measure and assess them.
Pack on a clean surface, out of direct sun when possible, and shake out grass and sand after an off-field landing.
Harness, container and electronics
Closing loops wear faster than most jumpers expect. Replace them at the first sign of fraying. Check that grommets are secure, Velcro is gripping well and the three-ring release moves freely. Follow your manufacturer's guidance on cleaning and flexing the release system, and never improvise a repair on the harness itself.
An automatic activation device must be serviced and replaced according to its manufacturer's schedule. Keep a note of the dates in your logbook. Altimeters need fresh batteries and an occasional check against a known reference. Helmets should be inspected after any impact, and cracked shells or worn chin straps replaced rather than patched.
Storage, sourcing and routine
- Store the rig in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, chemicals and pets.
- Let damp gear dry fully before packing it away.
- Use a gear bag for travel to protect against abrasion and grease.
- Keep a small kit of spare closing loops, rubber bands and a pull-up cord.
When it is time to replace worn items or add new equipment, many jumpers like to shop at SkydiveShop.com, where helmets, altimeters, jumpsuits and packing supplies are gathered in one specialist range. Always confirm with your rigger or instructor that new components are compatible with your system.
Gear care is part of the discipline of the sport, alongside currency, training and good judgement. Regular checks, honest conversations with qualified riggers and respect for your national regulations keep equipment in good shape for many seasons of jumps.
