HOW TO PUT ON A PARACHUTE
Beginner-friendly, bulletproof basics.
You're about to do your first solo jump.
That’s a big deal.
You’ll probably be overwhelmed.
Don’t worry, this guide is here to make sure you put your rig on right and check the essentials before jumping.
I am not a monitor; this is simply for general knowledge.
Let’s get you airborne safely:
1. Before You Even Touch the Rig
✅ Is the AAD (Automatic Activation Device) turned on?
This is your last line of defense if you pass out or can’t deploy.
Check the LED. It should be on and blinking.
✅ Check your 3-Ring System on both shoulders.
These are the three loops that connect your risers to the harness:
Look for the fabric-metal-fabric order.
Make sure everything is clean, nested, and properly seated.
No twists. No sloppiness.
2. Putting the Rig On (Step by Step)
Step 1: Step In Correctly
Put your feet through the leg straps.
They should be straight (not twisted) and not caught on anything.
Step 2: Shoulder the Rig Carefully
Grab the bag by its uppermost shoulder straps, not by the handles or reserve.
You don’t want to touch the deployment system.
Put one arm through.
Then scoop your elbow under the second strap to slide your other arm in without snagging.
You should now have the rig on your back.
3. Tighten and Secure
✅ Chest Strap
Not too tight, not too loose.
The rule: you should be able to slide a fist between the strap and your chest.
✅ Leg Straps
Pull evenly on both sides.
Snug is good. Too tight cuts circulation. Too loose = very bad.
Feed the extra strap back into the elastic keeper pouch designed to secure it.
Now double-check: Strap origin = fabric → metal → fabric.
This applies for leg straps and 3-rings.
If that order is broken, fix it, or don’t jump.
4. Handle Check
✅ Main Handle (usually bottom right)
✅ Reserve Handle (usually front left or chest-mounted)
Touch both. Know exactly where they are.
In a moment of panic, your hand will go where you’ve trained it to go.
Check now. It matters.
5. Pre-Boarding Gear Up
Now add your:
Altimeter
Helmet
Goggles
Have your instructor verify everything.
Don’t be shy, this is life support.
6. In the Plane: Check Again
Before the door opens, do two things:
🔁 Check your 3-rings (again)
🔁 Check both handles (again)
🔁 Strap origin (again): fabric → metal → fabric
This is a habit, not paranoia.
You’re training yourself to be sharp under pressure.
7. Final Check: Right Before the Jump
Touch your main handle one last time.
Make sure it’s there and feels right.
Then breathe.
Smile.
And jump.
FINAL THOUGHT
Skydiving is not dangerous when you respect the gear.
This article gives you a rock-solid foundation for your first rig-up.
Treat every jump like it’s your first.
Check everything like your life depends on it, because it does.