Wingload Calculator
Wingload Calculator
What is wing loading in skydiving?
Wing loading is the ratio of a skydiver’s exit weight to the surface area of the parachute. In the US, we calculate wing loading by dividing the skydiver’s exit weight in pounds by the canopy’s surface area in square feet.
Why is it important?
Understanding wing loading is key to understanding how your parachute will perform. A lower wing loading results in slower descents and is more forgiving to various inputs. However, if your wing loading is too low, you may lose authority over the canopy: your inputs have less effect, and even light winds can push you off course. A higher wing loading results in faster descents and has less room for error.
Determine your wing loading!
Step 1 – Determine your exit weight (body weight + gear weight)
Step 2 – Determine your current or desired canopy size
Go!
*This calculator is informational only*
What’s a good wing loading?
There’s no one-size-fits-all number. Most student skydivers start with a wing loading between 0.7 and 0.9, while experienced jumpers might fly anywhere between 1.1 and 1.8, depending on their goals, discipline, and canopy type. Higher doesn’t always mean better; the right wing loading is the one that matches your skill level, currency, and intended use. If you’re unsure, talk to a coach you trust.
Type of wing
Not all canopies are created equal. RAM-air parachutes come in a range of designs, and your wing loading works hand-in-hand with the specifications of your canopy to determine your flight experience. Go to the manufacturer website to find your canopy’s specifications.
Experience level
As skills progress, many skydivers find themselves caught in the middle of a conversation about downsizing. Downsizing is when a skydiver opts to jump a smaller canopy than the one they’re currently using. Talk with experienced canopy coaches who consistently watch you fly about how to downsize with safety at the forefront.
Currency
When it comes to downsizing, jump number means nothing without currency to back it up. Think about how often you’re jumping and why you may want a different canopy.
