The second most common question in skydiving after “can I use a camera already?” Is “can I downsize my canopy?”. A classic. Is either the hurry of going for a smaller size to don’t look like a student anymore or the FOMO because everyone else is doing it. So, if you identify with one of these, or you are just considering downsize your canopy, ask yourself these 3 questions.
1. Do you understand what flying concepts change with your new canopy?
To be sure you understand the concepts, check if you know the difference between a 9-cell canopy and a 7-cell canopy when it comes to flying, and how they respond to each other?
And how does a square canopy change to an elliptical canopy? What differences can you notice? This will make the difference if you want to downsize your canopy.
2. Do you have enough experience in your current canopy?
How many jumps do you currently have with your canopy? And not only how many, but in how long? It is important to be consistent and know your canopy well before you want to change it. 10 jumps in a month are not enough to take the big step!
3. Can you handle your current canopy in less-than-ideal situations?
You’re not always going to have an ideal landing in your LZ with a gentle breeze ahead. Are you able to have a crosswind landing, or a downwind landing in strong winds and know how your canopy reacts in those conditions?
What if you have an out landing? Would you know how to safely steer and perform a proper pattern to land with some accuracy in a safe obstacle-free area?
You always land on your feet but in a random place in the landing zone and with that you think that is enough, but are you capable of landing within 20m of a target with your current canopy?
If after these questions you’re still asking yourself, Can I downsize my canopy? Please, take the time to evaluate your skills and knowledge before making this decision.
Safe and happy landings!
