- Parachute pants originated in the 1970s and referred to the material that was used to make the pants, which was a nylon like material similar to that of a parachute. Also, the pants fit loose and this contributed to the title. In the 1980s parachute pants were made using similar material and worn mainly by break dancers and those who were in the hip-hop culture. Generally the pants were worn my men, and they were seen frequently on television and in music videos.
- The popularity of parachute pants increased in the 1980s and are almost iconic of the hip-hop culture during that era. The artist MC Hammer made parachute pants even more popular by consistently wearing them during performances and in music videos. In the 1990s when rave clubs became popular parachute pants once again became a symbol of culture and style, as well as one of functionality.
- Parachute pants were not only a fashion statement but served an important function. For break dancers, the nylon material was strong enough to resist tearing when dancers did stunts and moves on the ground. For artists and dancers, the pants were loose fitting and comfortable, and created a flowing effect during dance routines. Ravers wore parachute pants to keep cool when dancing at clubs as well as to easily carry personal effects.
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Parachute Pants for RaversParachute pants came in different colors and with different features over the years. Popular colors during the 1980s were neon colors, patterns and effects such as stripes. The waistbands were usually elastic and easy fitting, in fact some pants were one size fits all or many. During the 1990s when the rave culture began wearing parachute pants the colors were more subtle and the pants leg not as baggy. - As parachute pants have changed over time, so have their features. In the 1990s parachute pants for women were more readily available, and more feminine colors and styles were created. Pockets were added so that wearers could carry around more personal belongings. Many parachute pants were made with a removable lower part of the leg so dancers could unzip the pants leg and keep cool easier.
