Wing Loads

[jumpingjoe 0]

I am new to skydiving and have a question. What is appropriate wing loads if I was going to get a new canopy. I weigh 205 out the door with the rental gear. I have heard so many things thus far and figured that I would come here and see what you all had to say. A friend of mine is 145 out the door and is getting a 150. Does that sound right? Would a 190 or 170 be good for me? Just trying to understand all this as I consider my own gear.

[CanuckInUSA 0]

First off, you really should be having this discussion with the people who know your abilities best (your instructors and coaches). But since you're here:

Many people will say that a 210 is right for you, and that a 170 would be too aggresive with your weight and only 20 jumps (assuming your profile is up to date). With that in mind a 190 might work out nice if you have reasonable canopy skills and your instructors feel you can handle this sort of canopy. But the canopy material should also have some sort of influence here as well. You really should not load an F-111 canopy more than 1:1 but you can often get away with a slightly higher wing with ZP fabric.

Try not to worry about the things you have no control over

[cousindave 0]

i would strongly recommend a 210. there is no rush to down size.

David Ames
Used Gear Specialists
http://www.cousindave.com

[phoenixlpr 0]

:)

Sometimes it would be nice to check the time of the post.
It seems he has survived 50 jumps under a 190sqrft canopy :)

[cousindave 0]

Just because he has survived does not mean it is the right canopy for him. if he happens to get into any sub-optimal conditions i would rather err on the side of caution.

David Ames
Used Gear Specialists
http://www.cousindave.com

[phoenixlpr 0]

As you said, he survived. My guess was that time/date he was in front of a decision of buying a gear. It seems he hasmade up his mind already.