What is that Chute Made of?

Before anyone attempts skydiving, they should first get well acquainted with their parachute as this is literally their lifeline as they are falling through the air. Not only must one know how to open their chute but they should also have a good idea of what it’s made of.

Silk was the first material that was used to make parachutes and with the arrival of World War II, the chutes changed to nylon, which made them more durable than the silk that was previously used. Today a substance known as Dacron is generally used in the making of parachutes. It’s interesting to know that food containers and the sails found on boats are also made from this synthetic material. This material is not only very strong but it has proven to be especially wind-resistant, which will keep you in relatively the same place as you feel the wind against your face and your chute. Spectra is another material that is used to make parachutes and this material is actually fifteen times stronger than steel…which can make you feel extremely secure when you’re up in the air! One more material that is used to make chutes is Vectran, which has a special capability of standing up against strong temperatures and moisture.

The needs of the skydiver are taken into consideration when selecting a material for parachutes. Techonology is always make advancements so there will be no end to the improvements and modifications that will be made to the chutes that are already so useful!