Risks Of Skydiving Without A Parachute

What are the risks of skydiving without a parachute? Skydiving, even with a parachute, is considered risky and dangerous simply by the nature of the activity. Jumping from an airplane without a parachute, relying on specially designed wind suits or the equipment and skill of other skydivers take that risk to new levels. For many skydivers seeking the ultimate thrill of free falling without a parachute, the risks are worth the adventure, but the following can result in a fatality.

1. Inadequate Skydiving Training. It is important that skydivers understand the techniques and skills of the sport. Training to skydive without a parachute requires first learning the skills of skydiving successfully with a parachute
2. Experimental Equipment. Even skydivers experienced with parachute dives can be affected by unfamiliar equipment. For adventurers skydiving without a parachute, experimental specialty equipment and clothing are often key to the success of the jump—or rather of the successful landing. Even tested equipment may yield different results during real world jumps.
3. Basic Equipment Failure. Many skydivers seeking the thrill of a jump without a parachute are working with new wind suits and equipment or relying on a partner to successfully deploy parachutes during the jump. Equipment is not foolproof—even tried and true skydiving essentials.
4. Human Error. In a perfect world, mistakes are nonexistent. In the real world; however, humans make mistakes. When skydiving without a parachute, the judgment and skills of at least one other person must be flawless to yield a successful landing.
5. Overconfidence. There is a fine line between being having the skills and confidence necessary to skydive without a parachute—and being overly confident in those skills. Most would not consider the activity without adequate training and preparation.
6. Lack of Support. Skydiving without a parachute requires a well trained, experienced support team. Skydiving without a parachute is accomplished successfully—with assistance and support from quality partners.
7. Climate. Sudden wind shifts and misjudged trees are some of the more obvious climate and nature as equipment and partners may be affected by misjudged weather or ground terrain. Failure to understand and compensate for various weather conditions adds risks to skydiving with or without a parachute.
8. Nature. Trees, water hazards and rocky terrain make for risky landings in skydiving. Failing to investigate and navigate the hazards on the ground lead to certain injuries or fatalities.
9. Physical Medical Conditions. Skydiving is a strenuous activity—requiring that its participants be in good physical health. The risks and physical strain of skydiving, with or without a parachute, may be too much for sufferers of certain cardiovascular or neurological conditions. Consult a physician prior to planning a skydiving adventure.  
10. Injuries in the Air. While rare, there have been instances where skydivers suffer head injuries or other injuries while exiting the plane. Ensure that protective equipment is used correctly—and is sufficient to prevent such risks of skydiving.