How to Survive When Extreme Skysurfing

The object in skysurfing is not only to ride the aerial drafts like a wave, do air-flips, loops and head-downs, but to arrive safely on the ground afterwards. In short, it's all about preparation--for yourself as well as your equipment. Here are some suggestions for not only enjoying, but surviving, the exhilarating experience of this extreme sport.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Use the right length of board. The U.S. Parachute Association has expressed concerns about skysurfing safety, saying some competitors in USPA events had used boards too large for their skill level. Experts recommend that beginners use shorter boards, which are easier to control. The length range is about 35 inches to 60 inches. Longer boards are recommended only for expert skysurfers.
2. Remember the rules of a safe flying atmosphere. This means keeping several extreme skydiving basics in mind while skysurfing--fly in smaller rather than larger groups while learning, know where other fliers are at all times and learn control techniques at slow speeds first. Many of these safety reminders, plus various other kinds of skysurfing information, are available through the USPA and sites like Drop Zone and Parachuting.
3. Survive extreme skysurfing by preparing properly. That means getting specialized training, as well as looking after your equipment. It also means being in the best physical condition possible for pursuing this demanding sport. Skysurfers are usually experienced freestyle fliers already, but anyone attempting it must have at least a Class A skydiving license, and be advanced well beyond the student stage.
4. Know emergency procedures. You don't start out with the idea of encountering problems in a dive, but experienced fliers know to expect the unexpected. To survive a skysurfing emergency, make sure you are familiar with emergency equipment and procedures before you even get on the plane. Lots of places have good advice, including the many skydiving chat rooms and forums online. And the USPA publishes a manual with Basic Safety Requirements for all freestyle fliers.