With a wingsuit, you can go as far as 12,000 feet above the ground. It is because a wingsuit provides the extra lift that allows you to stay in the air much longer.
Wingsuits are truly remarkable pieces of engineering and can transform a person’s flight experience. They do this by using webbing between the arms and legs, which increases surface area to create drag for lift, enabling the wearer to glide through the air for extended periods.
It will also allow you to reach a speed of up to 120 mph while flying. Wingsuits also enable adept flyers dramatically alter direction during their flight due to the steering mechanisms incorporated into their design.
Thus, you can use a combination of wing production and intricate body movements to soar above the terrain, granting wingsuit flyers an unparalleled level of aerial freedom.
Types of Wingsuits
Wingsuit flying can be broadly divided into two categories: wingsuits, designed to allow a person to glide like a flying squirrel, and wingsuits, which utilize additional rigid components for maneuvering in the air.
There are also some types of wingsuits designed for different levels of experience.
Versatile Wingsuit
A versatile wingsuit is a type of wingsuit that suits all kinds of flying experiences. You can use this wingsuit for flying at higher altitudes and for more advanced flying techniques.
A versatile wingsuit has several features that make it ideal for all types of winged flight. In particular, this suit is made from more rigid materials that can withstand rougher landings or impacts without ripping or tearing.
Classic Wingsuit/ Acrobatic
This wingsuit is for intermediate flyers exploring acrobatic maneuvers and new flying methods. It features a highly maneuverable pilot chute and a larger stabilizer. It is best for those who have 80 flights or more.
Multi Wingsuit
This wingsuit is designed to maximize the performance of free flyers. It features more extended wingtips and a straighter leg cut. It results in higher speeds and more control during acrobatic maneuvers. It works best for those who have experienced 150 flights.
Distance-time Wingsuit
This type of wingsuit is for flight to maximize speed and stability. It is for experienced flyers with more than 250 flights who want to break speed records or perform complex maneuvers at high altitudes. This suit features extra-long wings, which allow high speeds when flying close to the ground.
Safe Flying Requirements with a Wingsuit
Before you start flying with a wingsuit, it’s essential to make sure that you’re fully prepared and know what to expect.
Here are some vital requirements and considerations for flying a wingsuit:
- You’ll need to be an experienced skydiver with at least 200 jumps.
- Ensure you have received proper instruction and training from an experienced wingsuit or BASE jumping instructor.
- Work on your flying skills and build up gradually, starting with smaller jumps at lower altitudes. It will help you to become more comfortable in the air and learn how your body reacts to different conditions.
- Make sure you always fly in tandem with an experienced wingsuit or BASE jumping partner who can help monitor your progress and ensure that you stay safe.
- Choose a location with favorable wind conditions to maximize lift and reduce drag as much as possible. It will allow you to fly more efficiently and safely while minimizing the risk of getting into trouble with the wind.
- Be aware of your surroundings and always ensure a clear flight path to your landing zone before taking off your wingsuit flight. Choose a location that offers multiple safe landing options if something unexpected happens during your wingsuit flying.
- Make sure that you have the right gear and that it is in good condition. For example, you should have an appropriately fitted wingsuit, a parachute, helmet, altimeter or pressure gauge, reserve parachute, reserve ripcord or handle, and so on.
Remember to prepare yourself mentally for what’s ahead before entering the air to fly with your wingsuit. Use positive visualization techniques to boost your confidence and help you focus on the task.
Flying with a wingsuit may be an extraordinary experience, but remember that it comes with a risk so ensure you have the proper knowledge and experience.
How long can you stay in the air with a wingsuit?
A typical wingsuit flight can last for several minutes, depending on the skill and experience of the pilot. Wingsuits are for skydivers looking to extend their time in the air and fly at high speeds, so they typically require advanced training and skill before being used.
Factors affecting the period a pilot can stay in the air with a Wingsuit
Skill and experience level of the pilot
A wingsuit pilot’s skill and experience level can significantly affect their period of stay in the air. For example, expert pilots who have many hours of training and practice under their belts will typically be able to stay aloft for longer than less experienced pilots.
They can make more precise flight adjustments and better control the body and wingsuit. While less experienced pilots will typically stay in the air for a shorter period, they may be able to perform more complex maneuvers than more skilled pilots.
Type of wingsuit used.
Wingsuits have different types depending on the wing configuration used. The wingsuit type affects the period of stay in the air with a wingsuit because different kinds of wingsuits have different designs for maneuver and need other control techniques to glide at different speeds.
For example, BASE jumpers typically use tapered wingsuits that provide more lift and allow more excellent maneuverability than flat-wing or hybrid suits. It means they can stay in the air with a wingsuit longer than those using flat-wing.
Weather conditions (wind speed and direction, temperature)
Weather conditions play a significant role in determining how long a wingsuit pilot can stay in the air. For example, if there are strong winds, it will be more difficult for the pilot to maintain control of their body and flight path.
The winds will create more drag against the wingsuit, which will make the body heavier. Stronger winds can also cause updrafts and downdrafts, which may toss the pilot around unpredictably, leading to shorter flight times for all wingsuit pilots.
In addition to strong winds, other weather conditions, such as precipitation, can be detrimental to a pilot’s flight. Rain, for example, can create wet conditions and slipperiness, making it more challenging to maneuver. Heavy fog or low visibility may make it hard for the wingsuit pilot to see and avoid obstacles in their path.
The altitude of the jump zone
At first glance, the altitude at which a wingsuit jumper takes off doesn’t impact the length of time a pilot stays in the air. However, it is one of the most critical factors determining how far a person can fly during their jump.
Higher altitudes allow wingsuit pilots to glide much farther than they can at lower altitudes through a combination of higher airspeed and the thinner atmosphere. The wingsuit has less drag at higher altitudes, and the pilot can fly faster.
Additionally, because the air is thinner at higher altitudes, it takes longer for the wingsuit to reach near-terminal velocity.
Total weight of the pilot, including gear and cargo
A pilot’s total weight has three components:
- Their body weight
- The weight of their gear
- The weight of any cargo they might be carrying
Lighter pilots will have a lower terminal velocity and, therefore, can stay airborne for longer.
Air resistance increases with an object’s speed to the fourth power, which means that even small reductions can significantly impact drag. So, a lighter pilot will reach their terminal velocity more quickly, so they can stay in the air for a more extended period.
Can you fly upwards in a wingsuit?
You can fly upwards in a wingsuit – this is because of the aerodynamic properties of the suit, which allow you to soar through the air like a bird. Wingsuits rely on an airfoil shape, which creates air pressure between the top and bottom parts of the wingsuit.
This difference in pressure causes the wingsuit to glide through the air instead of falling at high speed.
Wingsuits are:
- An incredible technology.
- Allowing skydivers to soar like a bird.
- Navigating through the air at high speeds.
But it’s more challenging than putting on one and soaring upwards – only experienced and well-trained pilots can fly upwards in a wingsuit.
To do so, they must develop advanced flying techniques from static line formation flights, learning to use ascending currents to gain altitude when jumping from high heights.
Once you master this, the tricky part comes: controlling your speed and direction with precise body position manipulation to achieve upward movement. It’s one of the most challenging skydiving disciplines, but it is also advantageous for those who master it.
Essential Equipment for Flying Upwards with a Wingsuit
To fly upwards in a wingsuit, you will need the proper equipment and training to do so safely. Some essential pieces of equipment that are required include a wingsuit, a helmet with a face mask or visor, goggles or glasses, earplugs or earmuffs, gloves with padded palms, and a parachute.
Wingsuit
A wingsuit is a piece of equipment designed and used to glide through the air. Unlike airplanes or non-body-powered gliders, wingsuits allow users to fly at high speeds with enough control to steer around obstacles in their path or swoop close to the ground without fear of crashing into anything.
Most wingsuits are made from nylon and other synthetic materials, but some pilots have built and flown wingsuits made from leather.
Helmet with a face mask or visor
A helmet with a face mask or visor is essential for anyone participating in wingsuit flying. Most modern helmets also come with built-in goggles or visors to provide a layer of protection and comfort for the pilot.
This type of helmet protects the head and face from potential impacts, wind blasts, and other hazards that could occur during flight. It also helps to keep the pilot’s face warm, dry, and free from debris while flying.
Here are the +300 Skydiving Helmets that you can choose from.
Goggles or glasses
Goggles or glasses for Wingsuit flying are essential equipment for any wingsuit flyer. They provide a clear view of your surroundings and protect your eyes against damage from the wind. They also help to keep out dust, sand, and other debris.
The most important consideration when choosing a pair of goggles is their fit. They should fit snugly around your head and not move or slip while flying. You want to ensure they provide a secure seal against your face without being too tight.
Check out these +100 goggles or glasses you can use for Wingsuit flying.
Earplugs or earmuffs
You will need earplugs and earmuffs for wingsuit flying that protect your ears from the loud noise generated by the wind as it rushes past your body when you fly. Because this noise is so loud, it can damage your hearing over time if you do not have proper protection.
Here are the +70 earplugs for your wingsuit flying activity.
Gloves with padded palms
Gloves with padded palms for wingsuit flying are designed to help protect your hands from impact injuries during a wingsuit jump. They may also provide some extra insulation and grip on the ground, which can be very helpful when you’re landing.
Gloves with padded palms for wingsuit flying are usually made from rigid, durable materials to ensure they can withstand the impact of landing. Many gloves have an extra layer of padding in the palms to help protect against bruises and cuts, especially if you land on rocky terrain or uneven ground.
To safely fly in a wingsuit, it is also essential to wear gloves with padded palms. It helps protect your hands from the impact of any complex objects or surfaces you might come into contact with while flying, as well as helps to provide better grip and control when maneuvering in the air.
Check out these +100 Gloves with padded palms.
Parachute
You use the parachute for wingsuit flyers as a backup or to extend your flight time. Parachutes for wingsuit flying are often called chutes or “belly-to-Earth” (BTE) chutes.
You can use the BTE chute when landing with a wingsuit, as you need additional time to slow down and land gently on the ground. Most parachutes for use by wingsuit flyers are designed for low-speed descents and have a larger surface area that allows the parachute to open at slower speeds.
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