What to Know Before Ziplining for the First Time
If you’re planning your first ziplining trip, it’s natural to feel excited, nervous or a whirlwind of emotions. There is a reason this outdoor activity is widely popular — it’s the ultimate adrenaline rush! You’ve probably spent time watching ziplining videos online, so you know how important it is to be prepared.
Raft1 is here with some first-time ziplining tips to ensure you get to see landscapes and treetops like never before. Our beginner’s guide will help you go into your first ride with safety, comfort and confidence in mind.
Wear the Right Clothing
When going ziplining, there is no need to make a fashion statement. Most locations require you to hike, bike or climb to significant heights, so it’s crucial to dress appropriately for your environment. Plan as if you’re going to the gym, since you’ll be spending hours in the great outdoors.
Ziplining requires you to wear a harness that sits along the upper part of your legs and waist. Wearing long pants, knee-length shorts or capris helps prevent unwanted ride up, brush burns and bug bites. Make sure your entire outfit is breathable with enough coverage to combat sunburn.
Plan to wear closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots during your trip. Remember that you’ll be gliding through the air at various speeds, so long-sleeve shirts and jackets are excellent if there’s a wind chill.
Practice Good Zipline Safety
Trust your ziplining guide, and always feel free to ask questions during a trip. Instructors undergo extensive training to ensure you have a safe, pleasant experience. All authorized zipline companies conduct routine inspections of equipment, cables and connections so you get safely from point A to point B.
Expect your guide to set you up with a helmet, harness and form of carabiner prior to takeoff. Check to make sure your helmet is adjusted to fit your head and harnesses are free from any snags. If you have long hair, always tie it back so strands stay clear of zipline attachments.
Pay Attention to Speed and Braking
Zipline instructors will give you lessons on proper techniques based on the course. Depending on where you zipline, you can expect to travel anywhere between 20-60 mph. Beginner setups usually involve passive-braking systems that stop automatically as you approach the end of your ride, but your guide will go over manual configurations if applicable.
Stay in the Moment
Do yourself a favor and leave your phone behind when ziplining. Emptying your pockets helps prevent personal belongings from falling below. Leaving your phone in your car or at home will also help you stay in the moment for your first zipline experience. If you want to document your trip, we suggest bringing along a GoPro or chest-mounted camera for hands-free recording.
Sign Up for Raft1 Ziplining Tours
Interested in ziplining in Southern Tennessee? Raft1 is a hotspot for outdoor adventure along the Ocoee River, giving you unbelievable views of nearby mountains, treetops and wildlife. Contact us today for more information about our ziplining options and tours!