what to wear for ziplining

3 min read 22-12-2024

Ziplining is an exhilarating adventure, but choosing the right outfit is crucial for safety and comfort. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about what to wear ziplining, ensuring you have a fantastic and worry-free experience.

What to Wear Ziplining: Key Considerations

Before we dive into specifics, let's cover the essential factors influencing your ziplining attire:

Safety: Your clothing shouldn't interfere with the zipline harness or equipment. Loose clothing can get caught, posing a risk.
Comfort: You'll be moving around, potentially for hours. Choose comfortable, breathable clothing that allows for full range of motion.
Weather: Conditions vary greatly depending on location and season. Dress appropriately for the forecast to avoid discomfort or potential hypothermia.
Protection: The sun, bugs, and even light scratches are possibilities. Consider protection from these elements.

What to Wear Ziplining: The Ideal Outfit

Here’s a breakdown of the best clothing choices for your ziplining adventure:

Tops:

Moisture-wicking shirts: These shirts pull sweat away from your body, keeping you dry and comfortable. Avoid cotton, which retains moisture and can be heavy when wet. Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are ideal.
Long or short sleeves: Your preference, but long sleeves offer more sun protection and can provide a little extra protection from scrapes. Just ensure sleeves aren't so long they dangle and might get caught.
Fitted shirts: Avoid loose, baggy shirts that could get caught in the equipment. A close-fitting athletic shirt is perfect.

Bottoms:

Long or short pants: Again, personal preference. Long pants offer more sun and scratch protection. Shorter pants allow for better airflow, which is nice on a warm day.
Durable fabric: Choose pants made from a durable material that can withstand minor scrapes and potential snags. Jeans are generally too stiff and heavy. Lightweight hiking pants are an excellent option.
Fitted pants: Avoid loose, baggy pants that might catch.

Footwear:

Closed-toe shoes: Absolutely essential for safety. Sandals, flip-flops, and open-toed shoes are a big no-no.
Supportive shoes: You’ll be walking, potentially over uneven terrain. Supportive athletic shoes or hiking boots are best. Avoid shoes with high heels or slick soles.
Secure lacing: Ensure your shoes are securely laced to avoid them coming off during the activity.

Accessories:

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Reapply as needed, especially if sweating.
Insect repellent: Depending on the location, bugs can be a nuisance. Apply insect repellent before you start.
Hat: A hat with a brim will shield your face and neck from the sun.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun's glare. Consider a strap to keep them secure.

What NOT to Wear Ziplining: Important Don'ts

Loose clothing: Avoid anything that could get caught in the equipment.
Jewelry: Remove all jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. They can get snagged or cause injury.
Scarves or shawls: These can easily get caught and pose a significant safety risk.
Open-toed shoes or sandals: These are strictly prohibited for safety reasons.
Cotton clothing: Cotton retains moisture, making you uncomfortable and potentially increasing the risk of hypothermia.

Choosing the Right Outfit for Different Weather Conditions

Hot weather: Opt for lightweight, breathable moisture-wicking clothing and a hat. Consider using a cooling towel or misting yourself with water.
Cold weather: Layer clothing to adjust for changing temperatures. Start with a base layer of thermal underwear, then add a fleece jacket and a waterproof outer shell. Wear warm socks and gloves.
Rainy weather: Wear waterproof and breathable clothing. Many zipline companies provide rain ponchos.

Frequently Asked Questions about What to Wear Ziplining

Q: Can I wear a backpack while ziplining?

A: Most zipline companies will provide you with a bag to store your personal belongings. Bringing a backpack might be inconvenient and potentially dangerous.

Q: What if I don't have the right clothing?

A: Some zipline companies offer rental clothing options, but it's best to check this in advance.

Q: Can I wear contact lenses?

A: While you can wear contact lenses, sunglasses are highly recommended for protecting your eyes from debris and the sun.

Following these guidelines will ensure you're dressed appropriately for a safe and enjoyable ziplining experience. Remember, safety is paramount, so choose clothing that allows for unrestricted movement and minimizes the risk of any accidents. Have a fantastic adventure!