Rockow 0 #1 May 9, 2003 I'm fairly new to the sport only 25 jumps. I've been thinking it would be a good idea for me to get a rig before I go broke renting one. I was wondering if anyone could tell me what size canopy I should try and find. I wiegh 135 pounds. I don't want something that I'll kill my self on but I still want something thats funner than the 288 sq ft student canopy I've been flying. Any ideas? NickIf first you don't succeed then skydiving isn't for you! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
RozeAY 0 #2 May 9, 2003 Typically a good wing-loading for a first canopy is around a 1:1. Talk to some of the more experienced instructors and canopy pilots around your dropzone. They will best be able to advise you on a canopy and help you progress from the 288 to something best suited for you. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
ERICCONNELLY 0 #3 May 9, 2003 after you talk to your instructors and coaches and have a good idea of what you want, check out the classifieds here. Good used gear, properly maintained can almost always be sold for almost what you paid for it. The rule of thumb I've heard is subtract $1 per jump. So, if you buy wisely, you can afford to keep your canopy progression limited to small, reasonable steps. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
towerrat 0 #4 May 9, 2003 huh,huh......you said funnerPlay stupid games, win stupid prizes! Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
CrazyIvan 0 #5 May 9, 2003 I have to second that, ask your instructors, they know and they know YOU too. Good luck.__________________________________________ Blue Skies and May the Force be with you. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
Ruffles 0 #6 May 9, 2003 First, what they said: talk to your instructors as to the brand and style to buy, but you can roughly calculate the size. You weigh 135lb + 25lb of gear = 160lbs. You therefore need at least a 150 sq ft chute, preferrably non-elliptical since you have 25 jumps. They make "semi-elliptical" canopies that are almost as much fun, but don't kick your ass as much when you screw up like a fully elliptical will. We always say "talk to your instructors first" because every new diver has different abilities. They know your abilities better than we do, so they can advise you more wisely. P.S. I wouldn't buy my first chute brand new from the manufacturer because you will likely end up selling it in the next 2-3 years and will get back 2/3 of what you paid for it new. Just my $0.02. .. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
