Paragliding is one of the most enjoyable experiences you can ever take part in. However, something that can make it uncomfortable is wearing the wrong clothes, as it can certainly ruin your experience. So, what should you wear paragliding?
For paragliding in the summer, wear long leggings or jogger pants, a t-shirt, athletic shoes, and a windbreaker. In winter, wear long johns with fleece pants over them, a tight sweater, fleece jacket, down jacket, and lightweight hiking boots. Wear gloves, sunscreen, and sunglasses year-round.
Below, I’ll get into the details of what you should wear when paragliding. Your clothing can make or break your experience! So, to avoid any possible discomfort, I’ve put this guide together just for you!
What Is the Best Outfit to Wear Paragliding?
As this activity is sedentary and you will be staying still in the paraglider, not actively moving, it is vital to dress in layer upon layer to stay warm from the wind.
Additionally, it’s crucial to wear closed-toe footwear that is appropriate for the terrain you would be lifting from and returning onto. Flipflops or slippers should be left at home.
Something to note as well is, if it looks like it might rain, get some waterproof outerwear on so you don’t get soaked, because if it rains you may npt get to fly either, so you may as well be dry. Don’t forget to put those sunglasses on to protect your vision from the sun’s rays.
Does Paragliding Have a Dress Code?
It cannot be emphasized enough for you to layer your clothing because the air is colder than the ground temperature. So, the wind will make you feel much colder, even during the summertime.
But one good rule of thumb is to assess the environment so you can dress appropriately for the circumstances and the time of year before taking off. Always keep conditions in mind when you are deciding what to wear.
The feeling of the temperature difference is rapid because you drop one degree Celsius in the air every 100 meters you climb. While this doesn’t sound much, it’s considerably cooler, and you will most likely get chilly.
It’s important to note that the air is typically rather chilly between October and May. Therefore, you should ensure that each layer you wear will keep you warmer than something you might layer up with in the summer.
What Gear Do They Dress You Up in When Paragliding?
The majority of the paragliding gear was created with safety in mind. The personal security of a flyer is tied to hardware like harnesses, extra parachutes, and headgear.
Awareness is crucial in this activity, which is why GPS, compass, and radio tools are helpful. This is the gear you can expect to wear with paragliding:
- Helmet
- Parachute pack
- Harness
- Connecting links to your instructor (tandem flight)
- Compass
- Goggles
Some places will also provide you with gripping gloves. However, you are welcome to bring them yourself!
Read our related guide: How Much Does Paragliding Cost? (The Ultimate Guide)
Do Your Shoes Matter When Paragliding?
Yes your shoes are extremely important when you are going paragliding. Wearing slippers is not recommended because they are not strapped to your foot and may fall off. After all, you don’t want to lose anything while flying.
Therefore, it’s best to wear comfortable sneakers or tennis shoes without the risk of falling off your feet.
Can You Wear Shorts Paragliding?
You want to avoid wearing shorts while paragliding, trust me. It might seem like a good idea on a hot, humid day. Who wants to go outside in pants in 80-degree weather?
But you will feel cold because you’re flying in the air, and you are more or less sedentary. The breeze may feel good at first, but it gets too cold after a while.
The best thing to do instead is to wear a light pair of windbreaker pants. You can also wear leggings if you wish. But make sure your legs are at least protected from the wind.
Can You Wear a Dress When Paragliding?
You can wear a dress when paragliding; however, it’s not recommended. This is not a safety risk, but it can become too cold. You don’t want an uncomfortable breeze blowing up your dress! Also, loose clothes around your gear is annoying.
Can You Wear a Skirt When Paragliding?
Skirts are safe to wear while paragliding, but that doesn’t mean you should wear one. You have to be able to run when landing and taking off. Plus, I’ve witnessed some less-than-graceful landings.
If you want to keep your legs warm and don’t want to turn the risk of your skirt blowing up on takeoff or landing, it’s best to wear pants.
Should You Tie Your Hair Up When Paragliding?
If you have long hair, you should tie it up in a low ponytail when paragliding. If your hair blows in your face or gets caught on your gear, you can’t fix it quickly when in the air.
However, keep in mind that you will be wearing a helmet. So, instead of pilling your hair on top of your head, put it in a low ponytail or bun.
Can You Wear a Hat Paragliding?
Some paragliders wear hats under their helmets but it is not recommended. Some people like to double up, but it’s not safe. Wearing a hat under your helmet can cause the helmet to shift around potentially impairing your vision for short periods of time, you wouldn’t want this happening during take-off, landing, or emergency situations.
So, What Should You NOT Wear Paragliding?
Here is a list of what you should not wear when paragliding:
- Slippers
- Flipflops
- Sandals
- Crocs
- Bare feet
- Hats
- Shorts
- Skirts
- Dresses
- Tank top
- Blouse
- Bulky items such as oversized sweaters or jackets
- Long hair without a ponytail
- Beanie
- Loose items in your pockets
Make sure you keep your loose items at home. You don’t want to risk something falling out of your pocket when you’re in the air.
What You Should Wear Paragliding:
If you are still unsure of what to wear, below is a list of the best items so that you can pick the best outfit for you to be comfortable in:
- Shirt: A simple t-shirt might be okay if it’s over 25°C at takeoff and you’re not particularly cold.
- Warm socks: On cold days, keep in mind to put on a nice pair of socks since the wind is frequent. Exposed feet and hands will become too cold.
- Gloves: Much like the feet, the hands are a part of the human body that are particularly sensitive to cold weather. You will be flying or clinging onto the straps in the air, and the breeze will frequently cause your hands to become numb. Thus, wearing gloves when flying is often quite beneficial.
- Windbreaker: A windproof jacket can be used when paragliding to guard against the weather or change in velocity, which can immediately make you cold. This Global Blank windbreaker is a great option.
- Fleece jacket or pants: A little fleece is necessary for paragliding because it never becomes too warm in the sky, even during the summer. A fleece from Columbia is a perfect option for paragliding, check out the Women’s Fast Trek II Microfleece or the Men’s Granite Mountain Fleece Jacket.
- A down jacket: A down jacket is just as necessary for paragliding as your glider, except during the summer when it’s sunny. Otherwise, you’ll shrivel up in the air from the excessive cold. A great women’s option is the MARMOT Women’s Jena Jacket, and for men the MARMOT Lightweight Water-Resistent Zeus Jacket.
- Sweats, joggers, long pants, or leggings: You can choose between wearing leggings or pants depending on the season and the weather, but always make sure they are comfortable for flying in.
- Sunscreen: It doesn’t matter if the weather is gloomy; the sun’s rays can still burn you. So, make sure you lather up with a bit of sunscreen.
- Running shoes, light hiking boots: The right shoes are an essential component of a paragliding suit. You must walk and stand steadily on your feet during takeoffs and landings because they can be a little frantic. Therefore, choose running/tennis shoes or sports shoes that provide good support for your feet and ankles. In winter, a good lightweight hiking boot is a good idea. For women, the Columbia Newton Ridge Lightweight Hiking Boot is perfect for all flights, and for men the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Suede Waterproof Boot is a nice pick.
- Sunglasses: These shield your eyes from the sun and any bugs, projectiles, dust, or wind that may annoy you while you’re in the air. Sporty glasses like the Oakley Holbrook Sunglasses are a cool choice, but make sure to have a good glasses strap to hold them on.
Final Thoughts
Paragliding is meant to be enjoyed and nothing less! However, wearing inappropriate clothing during this activity can make you miserable.
It’s best to layer your clothing, even in the summer. You can opt for a pair of leggings with a t-shirt and a windbreaker. But, in the winter, you will want to ensure your layers are cozy since it’s much cooler in the air!
Regardless of what you wear, make sure you are comfortable and warm. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, and gloves too!
Jamie is the founder of Action Sporter. He is the chief zipline writer and the lead editor. He has 5 years of zipline experience being a tour guide in Newfoundland. Most of the time you can find Jamie adventure traveling, hiking, skiing, skateboarding, or anything action related!
