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Many people think skydiving and parachuting are the same. However, there are a few key differences between the two activities. Let’s dive into details.

What is Parachuting?

Parachuting is an activity where people jump out of planes using a parachute to slow their descent. There are different types of parachuting;

• recreational, 
• military,
• disaster relief.

Recreational parachuting can be broadly divided into two main disciplines – free-flying (in which pilots perform acrobatic maneuvers after exiting the aircraft) and relative work (typically involving formations flying). 

Military parachuting includes deploying troops from transport aircraft and helicopters. Disaster relief involves dropping supplies to people stranded after disasters such as hurricanes or earthquakes.

What is Skydiving?

Skydiving is an activity where people jump out of planes and freefall for some time before opening their parachutes. Skydivers typically jump from much higher altitudes than parachuters, which allows them to experience a longer period of freefall.

Skydivers wear special jumpsuits and helmets to help protect them during the jump and while they are free-falling.

Skydiving can be a solo activity or you can choose to jump with a group of friends. There are also many different competitive skydiving events that you can participate in if you’re looking for a more competitive experience.

Skydive & Parachute Jump Difference

Here’s a breakdown of what sets skydiving and parachuting apart.

Fall Height

One of the biggest differences between skydiving and parachuting is location. Skydiving takes place at an altitude of at least 3,500 feet, whereas parachuting typically takes place close to the ground—usually no more than 500 feet off the ground. Depending on your experience level, you may parachute from even lower altitudes.

Freefall Length

The main difference between skydiving and parachuting is the time spent in freefall. Skydivers typically jump from altitudes of 10,000 feet or more, which allows them to experience a long period of freefall. 

Parachuters, on the other hand, usually only jump from altitudes of 3,000 feet or less. This means that they don’t get to experience the same lengthy period of freefall as skydivers.

Equipment Used

Another key difference between skydives and parachute jumps is the type of equipment each activity requires. For a skydive, you’ll need;

• a jumpsuit, 
• goggles, 
• helmet, 
• parachute. 

Parachutists typically only need; 

• a jumpsuit, 
• goggles, 
• a parachute. 

It’s also worth noting that skydivers use two parachutes—the main parachute and a reserve parachute—whereas parachutists only use one.

Another difference between skydiving and parachuting is the type of parachute used. Skydivers typically use a round parachute, while parachutes usually use a square or rectangular parachute. The type of parachute used can affect the descent speed and landing accuracy.

Safety Considerations

Both skydiving and parachuting can be dangerous activities if not done correctly. It’s important to receive proper training before attempting the either activity. 

Additionally, both skydivers and parachutes should always use a parachute that is properly packed and in good working condition.

The Purpose of the Activity

The final major difference between skydiving and parachuting has to do with the purpose of the activity. 

Skydivers generally jump for recreational purposes, whereas parachutists usually jump for utility purposes (e.g., military applications). That’s not to say that you can’t skydive for utility purposes or that you can’t parachute for recreation—it’s just that it’s more common for people to do one or the other for specific reasons.

Which Is Right For You?

The choice of whether to skydive or parachute ultimately comes down to personal preference. 

If you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping experience, skydiving may be the right activity. 

However, if you’re more interested in a leisurely descent, then parachuting may be a better option. Ultimately, the decision of which activity to pursue is up to you.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are several key differences between skydives and parachute jumps. Location, equipment used, and purpose are all major factors that set these two activities apart. So, next time someone asks if you’ve ever been skydiving or parachuting before, make sure you know which activity they’re talking about!