Wing Loading Calculator for Skydivers

Parachute wing loading calculator

Wing loading is your exit weight divided by your canopy size. Enter your body weight and your gear weight (rig, suit, helmet, camera, lead) and the calculator adds them up for you.

How the wing loading is calculated

• Exit weight: exit_weight_lb = body_weight_lb + equipment_weight_lb
• Wing loading: wing_loading = exit_weight_lb / canopy_size_sq_ft
• Metric loading: kg_per_m² = (exit_weight_lb × 0.45359237) / (canopy_size_sq_ft × 0.09290304)

Canopy downsizing guidance

A lower number usually means a slower, more forgiving canopy, but it doesn't guarantee a good landing. A smaller canopy flies faster, comes down faster, turns quicker, needs a better-timed flare, and loses more altitude in a turn. Mistakes near the ground hurt more.

• Don't downsize on the number alone. Ask yourself whether you're current, whether you land where you planned every time, and how you handle turbulence and traffic.
• Use your real exit weight. Weigh yourself fully geared up, including lead and camera gear.
• Change one thing at a time. Don't go smaller and switch to a new canopy model, new line trim, or a new rig all at once.
• Start on an easy day. Make your first jumps on a new size in mellow winds, with light traffic, big outs, and a landing plan you've thought through.
• Get a second opinion. Talk to your instructor, a canopy coach, or your S&TA, and read the manufacturer's wing loading limits for that exact canopy.

Wing loading calculator FAQ

What is wing loading? How many pounds of exit weight each square foot of canopy is carrying.

Why exit weight and not body weight? The canopy carries everything, so 20 lb of gear makes a real difference.

What does a higher number mean? Usually a faster, more responsive canopy that's less forgiving of mistakes. How much depends on the canopy design.

Technical references