Skydiving for Beginners: Tandem vs. AFF, What to Expect, and How to Prepare
For a first skydive, most people choose a tandem jump: you're strapped to a certified instructor who handles the parachute, so no prior training is required beyond a short briefing. If your goal is to eventually jump solo, you'd instead start with AFF (Accelerated Freefall) or a static line progression, which involve ground school and supervised jumps of your own. The right choice depends on whether you want a one-time experience or a path to a license.
The three first-jump options
| Option | What it is | Who handles the parachute | Training required | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tandem | You're attached to an instructor for the whole jump | Instructor | Briefing only | First-timers who want the experience with minimal prep |
| Static line | You exit alone; the parachute opens automatically via a line attached to the aircraft | You, after deployment | Ground school | Those starting a solo progression with a gentler first step |
| AFF | You exit alone with two instructors holding you, then deploy your own parachute | You | Ground school | Those committed to becoming licensed and wanting freefall control early |
Tandem is the lowest-commitment entry point. Static line and AFF are training programs — you're there to learn to skydive, not just to experience it once.
What happens on a typical first tandem jump
The sequence below reflects how a standard tandem operation runs. Exact timing and procedures vary by drop zone.
- Check-in and paperwork. You'll sign a waiver and confirm your details. Bring a valid ID.
- Briefing. An instructor explains the exit, body position, freefall, and landing. You'll practice the arch position and the landing approach (legs up).
- Gearing up. You're fitted into a harness that connects you to your instructor, plus a jumpsuit, goggles, and a hat if needed.
- The ride up. The aircraft climbs to altitude — commonly up to around 13,000 feet at operations like Skydive Kapowsin, which advertises jumps from up to that height. This is when nerves usually peak.
- Exit and freefall. You leave the aircraft attached to your instructor. Freefall typically lasts around a minute from higher altitudes, though this depends on exit height.
- Canopy flight. The instructor deploys the parachute. You glide for several minutes, and you may get a chance to steer.
- Landing. You lift your legs, the instructor lands the canopy, and you slide in.
The whole experience usually takes a few hours door to door, most of it waiting, briefing, and the climb — not the jump itself.
What freefall and canopy flight actually feel like
- The exit is the most intense moment — a rush of noise and motion.
- Freefall doesn't feel like falling. It feels like a strong, steady wind pressing against you. The "stomach drop" sensation fades within seconds.
- Canopy flight is quiet and calm by comparison. You can talk to your instructor and take in the view.
- Landing is usually softer than people expect, especially if you follow the legs-up instruction.
Common fears — the door, the exit, the parachute not opening — are normal. Tandem gear includes a reserve parachute and an automatic activation device, and your instructor is trained to handle malfunctions.
How to prepare
Weight and health limits. Drop zones set maximum weight limits for tandem jumps, often with a lower limit for shorter people, and some charge more above a certain weight. Ask your specific drop zone before booking. Certain medical conditions (heart, back, or joint issues, for example) may require a doctor's clearance — check with the operation and your physician.
What to wear:
- Comfortable, close-fitting clothing (no loose items that can fly off)
- Sneakers or secure athletic shoes — no sandals, heels, or boots with hooks
- Remove jewelry, watches, and anything in pockets
What not to do before jumping:
- Don't drink alcohol or use drugs beforehand
- Avoid heavy meals right before — a light meal is fine
- Get reasonable sleep; fatigue makes the experience harder to enjoy
Other practical notes:
- Bring ID and any required waiver information.
- Plan for weather delays — wind and clouds can push jumps back or cancel them.
- If you want photos or video, ask about it when booking; many drop zones offer it as an add-on.
If you want to become a licensed skydiver
Tandem is a taste; AFF is the standard route to a license. AFF typically involves a ground school plus a series of jumps with instructors who gradually release you as you demonstrate control. After completing the progression, you can jump solo and work toward a license.
Costs vary widely by drop zone and aren't listed in the source material here, so ask the operation directly about AFF pricing, package deals, and what's included. The same applies to tandem pricing — confirm current rates and any weight-based surcharges when you book.
Choosing a drop zone
Look for a fully certified operation, since certification signals the center meets established safety and training standards. Skydive Kapowsin, for example, describes itself as a fully certified center near Olympia, Washington, open seven days a week. When comparing options, check:
- Certification and instructor credentials
- Altitude offered (higher altitude means longer freefall)
- Availability and booking lead time
- Whether video/photo packages are available
- Reviews from first-time jumpers specifically
The best first step is to call or check the drop zone's site for current weight limits, pricing, and what to bring — those details change and aren't something to guess at.