Atmospheric turbulence can be a significant hazard when flying a ram-air canopy. It is important for all skydivers to understand the nature of turbulence and its potential effects on a canopy in flight. Skydivers should know how to avoid turbulence, but must also understand effective techniques for flying in turbulence if it is encountered...

This is the second of two articles on how to choose a main canopy. Last month, we discussed canopy size and wing loading, and looked at factors to consider when downsizing. In this article, we will examine differences between various types of canopies...

“I'm really careful under canopy. I never make low turns.”

You've probably heard someone say this before. You might even say it yourself. You might also think that most...

This concept has been explained over and over again – and you probably have heard it already.

As you descend under parachute – the horizon appears to be rising in your field of view. Since you can never reach the horizon, you can assume that objects rising in your field of view...

The way your main canopy performs is mostly determined by the size and type of canopy that you choose. No matter what type of main you fly, though, whether it’s a hot new zero-p “elliptical” or a tired but trusted old “F-111” type canopy...

Many factors determine the way your canopy opens. The design of the canopy and the way it is packed are two important factors, but body position also plays a major role...

We learn to deploy our canopies in a basic, stable position as students, and many of us don’t give this skill much more thought after that...