SCOTT735 0 #1 October 12, 2011 I weigh 215lbs, 245lbs with all the gear on. I have tried both 260 and 290 Mantas. I felt the 290 landed me softer, but don't know if the wind conditions were the significant factor. As a new student (only 5 jumps on static line so far) should there be a noticable difference between the 260 and the 290? I always ask to use the biggest canopy possible, but they are not always setup for static line. The instructors said that I should be OK on the 250, 260 or 290 (I used all three). Since I just broke my hand on jump 5 (landing with what seemed to be alot of forward speed...and I did a crummy PLF), I am just trying to learn everything I can before my next jump (while my hand heals). Should I insist on the 290 next time or are they all about the same? Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
airtwardo 7 #2 October 12, 2011 I've been following all your posts the last few days, and if it's in good condition the 260 should be OK, but then again from what I read you're not a young kid and not knowing what kind of shape you are in I might opt for the 290...but here's the thing, in 5 jumps you have switched canopy size 3 times. That's a tough extra little bit of a challenge for a n00b to have to be contending with. If I were you, I would try to make a 'reservation' before hand to insure the use of the same size canopy as the prior and next jump. Until you dial in the sight picture etc. and get comfortable with what's going on you really don't need to be throwing extra variables in to contend with. If all they have is the 250 that day, wait for another day...as you've just found out a two second mistake can take two months to get over, there's no rush here. ~ If you choke a Smurf, what color does it turn? ~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
SCOTT735 0 #3 October 12, 2011 Airtwardo, Thanks for the advice. I like the idea of reserving the same canopy to reduce the number of variables while I learn. By the way, I am not an althelete, but not in terrible shape either. I have found this sport has given me motivation to loose some of the extra weight I have aquired over the years (another reason I want to continue with skydiving). I am in no rush to learn too quickly, just want to stay safe and eventually get to experience the solo jump from higher altitude. My first goal though is to better understand the landing so I don't break another bone every five jumps. Thanks again for the good advice. Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
airtwardo 7 #4 October 12, 2011 I have found this sport has given me motivation to loose some of the extra weight I have aquired over the years. Quote Yeah me too, lost a whole lotta the weight I use to carry in my wallet! ~ If you choke a Smurf, what color does it turn? ~ Quote Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
