Naked SkydivingThe thought of skydiving alone can send some people into a manic state of fear, complete with cold sweats and hives. The thought of skydiving naked can worsen that state of fear, or for a very select few, send them grinning from ear to ear. Usually naked skydiving is reserved for those who have already made the jump before and are comfortable with diving again. It is also for those who have no problem bearing all to the world beneath them, although finding a place where such an adventure is legal can be a bit of a challenge. Why would someone want to skydive naked in the first place? The reasons vary depending on the person. Some people choose to make the naked jump to commemorate an event such as a birthday or anniversary. Some people do it just because they want to and for no other good reason. Skydiving naked is similar to regular skydiving in many ways but there are a few slight differences to keep in mind before going where no man has gone before. First of all, it is important to understand that naked skydivingphysically feels much different than fully-clothed jumps. For example, think about how your face and cheeks really flap in the wind while you're free-falling. Now think about other parts of your body doing that exact same thing - those particular parts are not used to be exposed to 130 mph winds. Second, do a safety check of all your equipment prior to jumping. It is possible your harness will fit quite differently naked as opposed to clothed. You need to make sure that your equipment is tight enough yet remains comfortable for you to maneuver while landing. Also, keep in mind that despite how warm the temperature may be outside, your jump is going to be extremely cold. This is why skydivers are usually clad in long sleeves, tights, helmets and goggles. It would be similar to diving into a pool of 40 degree water naked, even at the warmest time of year. Most naked jumps are not permitted at any time of day. Typically in areas where this excursion is legal, time is limited on making a naked jump. Most facilities will require you to jump when there are no students on board, meaning either at the very beginning of the day on the first load or the very end on the last load. Also, you will probably not be permitted to load the aircraft naked. Most facilities will require you to wear a loose shirt and shorts or a fanny pack at minimum, all of which can easily be removed just prior to jumping. Another typical requirement is that you must be fully clothed when landing in the dropzone. To do this, keep your shirt stuffed in your fanny pack and quickly pull it out immediately after landing. To find a facility that permits naked jumping, search the internet or contact a local skydiving facility. Be prepared to travel to your naked skydiving adventure, as several naked jump facilities are located internationally. |
