How to use our Wing Loading Calculator
1
Select your unit
2
Enter your body weight
3
Enter the total weight of your gear
4
Enter your canopy size ... Or Select your target wing loading
Wing Loading Calculator
Wing Load Calculator
What is Wing Loading?
Wing loading is the ratio of your total weight (including your body and gear) to the surface area of your canopy, usually expressed in pounds per square foot (lbs/ft²) or kilograms per square meter (kg/m²). It directly affects your canopy’s speed, handling, and descent rate.
Why Wing Loading Matters in Skydiving
Understanding your wing loading is essential for safety and performance. Higher wing loading means faster flying speeds and more responsive handling, which can be exciting but also demands advanced skills. Lower wing loading results in slower, gentler canopy flight, suitable for beginners or relaxed jumps.
How to Interpret Your Results
Use this calculator to find your wing loading value. If your wing loading is high, consider your experience level before flying aggressively. If it’s low, you might enjoy a smoother, more stable descent. Always follow your instructor’s advice and manufacturer guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What wing loading is best for beginners?
- Beginners typically fly with wing loading between 0.8 and 1.0 lbs/ft² for easier handling and slower speeds.
- Does gear weight affect wing loading?
- Yes, always include your gear weight in the total weight for accurate wing loading calculation.
- Can I fly a canopy with high wing loading?
- Only if you have the necessary skill and training to handle faster and more responsive flight characteristics.