Preparing for your skydive
Everything You Need To Know
CONGRATULATIONS!! You’re officially booked with Skydive St. Louis, and everyone here is already fired up to welcome you to the dropzone.
Now, one quick thing before you arrive. Please read through the info on this page. It’s the stuff that keeps your jump day fun, smooth, and stress-free, so you can focus on the best parts: the anticipation, the adrenaline, and that post-landing “I can’t believe I just did that” grin.
Take a few minutes, knock it out, and you’ll show up feeling ready.
Let’s go.
(Read This First)
The 60-Second Checklist
Bring these. Wear this. Be this.
- Valid photo ID
- Be at least 18 years of age (no exceptions)
- Closed-toe shoes (sneakers are perfect, no heels)
- Comfortable clothes (jeans, shorts, athletic wear)
- Avoid collared shirts and puffy jackets (trust us on this one)
- A big smile (mandatory, non-negotiable, highly photogenic)
- Please note: the use of GoPro’s, action cameras or Meta Glasses are not permitted on your skydive.
(Very Important)
Your Time Window
Please plan to budget up to 4 hours for your experience. Will it always take that long? Not usually.
But skydiving is powered by weather, safety, aircraft flow, and a bunch of very real variables that do not care about anyone’s dinner reservation.
We’ll always work to keep things moving and get you in and out as efficiently as possible.
The Rules of the Road
Terms & Conditions
Deposits + Booking Fees
- Deposits (when applicable) are not refundable.
- Deposits are transferable and valid for one calendar year.
- Booking fees are non-refundable.
Age Requirement
- You must be at least 18 years old on the day of your jump.
Weight Requirement + Surcharge
- You must weigh 260 lbs or less.
- A $1 per pound surcharge applies for anyone over 200 lbs.
A Few More Things To Note
More Terms & Conditions
Rescheduling
- Rescheduling is allowed with 14 days notice, or if Skydive STL cancels due to weather.
Waiver
- You must sign a legal waiver in order to jump.
Solo Jumpers (Quick Heads Up)
If you’re jumping alone, you may be assessed a $40 single jumper fee.
We’ll do everything possible to pair you with another solo jumper, but if you want to avoid that fee entirely:
- Bring a friend
- Or purchase a media package
Both options also happen to make the day way more fun.
Read the Fine Print!
Weather & Cancellation Policy
Weather Policy
For your safety and ours, we do not negotiate with mother nature.
If weather prevents jumping, we’ll do our best to notify you before you arrive.
Otherwise, please plan to show up at your scheduled time and the team will guide you from there.
Safety always comes first, and weather is part of skydiving life.
Cancellation Policy (The Straight Answer)
Because skydives are reservation-based and daily slots are limited:
- Deposits cannot be refunded since they reserve a specific time slot.
- Deposits are transferable and valid for one calendar year.
If you decide not to jump:
No refunds can be given, because the costs are tied to preparing for your jump and reserving your slot.
That said, the instructors at Skydive STL are pros at coaching people through nerves. You’d be amazed how quickly “I can’t do this” turns into “WHEN CAN I DO THAT AGAIN?”
Everything You'll Want To Know
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is expected with tipping instructors?
Tipping is not expected, but it’s always appreciated.
If your instructor made you feel safe, confident, and like an absolute champion, letting them know (in any form) is a great move.
- What if I'm not 18 on the day of my skydive, is parental consent acceptable?
Regrettably, no. There are no exceptions to this rule. Our expensive attorney has made it clear – must be 18 to skydive (yes, sir!)
- Is there a weight limit?
The weight limit for a tandem skydiver is 260 pounds. The skydiving weight limit is enforced to ensure the fit and safety of the tandem harness and is always case by case depending on the physical ability of the tandem skydiver. Please note: There is a $1 per pound charge over 200 lbs.
- Can I jump with prescription glasses or contact lenses?
Yes you can jump with prescription glasses or contact lenses, we will provide you with special goggles that fit over your glasses. If you wear contacts, you should be able to wear our standard goggles. Please inform your skydiving instructor that you are wearing contacts to make certain you are fully protected. We want you to have a clear view while you are in free fall and under the parachute!
- Can I jump with an injury or medical problem?
Yes, we are able to take you for a skydive with a disability or medical problem with some exceptions. You may need to receive an evaluation from an instructor before your skydive. Please seek advice from your physician for any medical concerns.
- When should I arrive at Skydive STL?
Your reservation time is when you need to arrive at the skydiving center. Your entire experience, including signing in and completing necessary training, normally takes 90 minutes or less. We are committed to serving you in the most efficient and safe manner possible. However, there are many factors in the sport of skydiving that may cause possible delays and make it difficult predict the exact time of your jump. Please arrive at your reservation time and budget for a potential 4 hours, especially on the weekend.
- What if the weather is not suitable?
Skydiving is entirely dependent on the weather. We continuously track weather conditions in this sport and will reach out to you if we are unable to jump on the day of your reservation. Our team is committed to making your skydive happen if we can do so in a safe manner. We will wait for the weather to pass for at least 3 hours with you. If we’re unable to jump we will reschedule your skydive for a different day.
- How high will I jump from and how long is the freefall?
We skydive from 10,000 feet, reaching speeds of up to 120 mph! This allows for approximately 45 seconds of freefall and after your instructor deploys your parachute, you will enjoy a five to seven-minute parachute flight overlooking the mighty Mississippi River.
- What should I wear to skydive?
Wear comfortable clothing according to the weather such as shorts, yoga pants, athletic attire, etc. Please wear sneakers or tennis shoes, no heels. It’s best to braid and bind long hair and wrangle those bushy beards with hair elastics, so you do not have to spend hours working out the tangles! Find more details on what to wear skydiving here!
- Can I take my camera or GoPro with me?
The national safety standards put in place by the United States Parachute Association state only licensed skydivers with a minimum of 200 skydives can jump with any type of camera. This is inclusive of GoPro’s, action cameras and Meta Glasses. We have professional video and photo packages available to capture your entire experience!
- If I jump with a friend will I be able to see them?
You may be able to watch your friend exiting the airplane from the door if they jump before you. However, the chance of seeing them in freefall is unlikely because of the distance between you due to the fast freefall speeds. Most times you will be able to see one another during your parachute flight. Remember, this is your personal experience and a perfect time to focus on the moment. You will have plenty of time to celebrate with your friends when you are back on the ground!
- Do you allow spectators?
Yes! We have a great observation area for spectators with a firsthand view of the landing area so you can see your friends come in for landing!
- Do you have any food service available?
We do not have a food option available. We suggest you bring snacks and plenty of water. There are great restaurants nearby for celebrating your skydive after you jump!
- Do you offer insurance?
No.
