Here’s the answer: pulling on the front risers makes your canopy drop faster. That’s it, you can leave now or check below when this can be veryyy handy:
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- To lose altitude quickly
- To create vertical separation and make sure you’re not too close to other jumpers.
- To stay in position, especially in strong winds.
But, there’s more to it than just pulling the risers. Let’s break it down.
How can you use front risers safely?
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- Look around: Before you dive, check for other jumpers below and to the sides. You don’t want to bump into anyone… or do you?
- Stay high: Do all your front riser maneuvers before you reach 2,000 feet. Doing this too low can be risky. Always keep an eye on the altimeter to be aware of you how much altitude you lose.
- Practice makes perfect: Front riser techniques can be tricky. Make sure you practice and get used to how your canopy reacts before using them for real.
Why practice front riser techniques?
Practicing helps you get a feel for how pulling on the front risers affects your descent and heading. It’s like learning to ride a bike—once you get the hang of it, it’s smooth sailing!
What should you do before using front risers?
Make sure you’re comfortable with front riser techniques before relying on them in a jump. Practice and get familiar with how they work so you can handle different situations confidently.
Where can you learn more?
For more details on front riser usage, check out Section 4, Category H of the USPA SIM. It’s got all the info you need to get the most out of your front riser techniques.
And please, never hesitate to ask for advice from your DZ examiner, instructors, or high-performance coach.
Wrap-Up
Front risers are a great tool for controlling your canopy, but they need to be used right. Practice, stay safe, and you’ll be handling those front risers like a pro!
