Student Gear - What to look for ?

[Digitalmafia 0]

I am about to embark on my AFF training and could not be more excited. But being a new dad I feel like I need to make sure I have covered my bases when it comes to safety (A few years ago I was more balls then brains and would not have asked). I apologize if this seems a redundant post or thread, but I have read several others and they either digressed away from what I was looking for or were not specific enough.
My question is as follows (with some thoughts mixed in

I honestly believe that instructors at any reputable DZ will do everything to ensure my safety ..but is the gear on my back as good as theirs? AAD's. I like the idea that if all else fails, the aad will fire n at least put something over my head-What AAD's would you not put on a student (I dont know much about them, but are there old series and new ones that I should watch out for?). I understand (or guess) that student gear gets used a lot and isnt as new or cutting edge as what a personal rig might be...but any obvious things that I can research in advance (with a phone call to the DZ)?

Thanks for any advice!

[dragon2 2]

I wouldn't worry about stuff like that actually. I've never seen student gear that was not suitable for the job, myself.

AAD's, that's a personal question, but I'd be ok with student Cypres, Vigil set on student mode, and FXC12000, with the previous 2 choices being better. An AAD is mandatory for students so you will get one.

If you later on want to freefly in those student rigs things to look for change, but you'd already have your own kit by then usually.

I'd rather just go to the dz, hang out and get the feel for each, if you have a choice of dz's to go to.

ciel bleu,
Saskia

[NWFlyer 2]

I notice you're in the Phoenix area. If you go to Skydive Arizona in Eloy, you needn't worry about the quality of the instruction or the gear down there. It's a world-class dropzone and their program is top-notch. (Note this is not a knock on other DZs in the area, I honestly don't know much about them).

Kudos for asking questions, though, and don't be afraid to ask lots of them once you select a student program.

"There is only one basic human right, the right to do as you damn well please. And with it comes the only basic human duty, the duty to take the consequences." -P.J. O'Rourke

[tombuch 0]

Quote

I notice you're in the Phoenix area. If you go to Skydive Arizona in Eloy, you needn't worry about the quality of the instruction or the gear down there. It's a world-class dropzone and their program is top-notch. (Note this is not a knock on other DZs in the area, I honestly don't know much about them).

Kudos for asking questions, though, and don't be afraid to ask lots of them once you select a student program.

Your questions are good ones. It does make sense to check out a DZ and their equipment before making your first skydive...you would do that for any other major purchase, right? Think of it like buying a new car...do the research so you can select the best training, and so that you will be comfortable with your decision.

If you are in the Phoenix area, Skydive Arizona is a good choice, but I'd still suggest you do some research on your own.

I'd suggest you call at least three drop zones and chat with them about their programs, prices, equipment, staff training, and safety records. Use the phone calls to get a feel for each operation and then make a comparison. If you have time, visit at least one before you sign up.

I actually wrote a book for McGraw-Hill called JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy a few years ago that is loaded with information for beginners, and includes a set of questions that you could ask over the phone. It was really written as a consumer guide for selecting a drop zone. It's available at many bookshops, and at a discount from Amazon.com.

Have fun with your training!
.

Tom Buchanan
Instructor Emeritus
Comm Pilot MSEL,G
Author: JUMP! Skydiving Made Fun and Easy

[Digitalmafia 0]

Thanks to everyone who replied. I researched gear and asked a lot of questions (and visited a local DZ) and will be doing my AFF training at Desert Skydive Center in Buckeye-soon! I was also very impressed with SkyDive AZ (top notch).

I vistied Buckeye with my 15 month old daughter (father n daughter day ;) and I have never felt so welcomed walking up to a group of strangers and having them instantly start up a conversation (not a sales pitch in the house). Easy going, but serious skydivers. I imagine that many years ago all DZ's had this feel to them. Thanks again.