Can You Skydive in Winter?

Well … yes! And no. You can skydive in the winter, but it will depend on where you are located geographically. 

In general, here in the Midwest region, the skydiving season wraps up right around the end of October. Specifically speaking, at Wisconsin Skydiving Center, we do not operate in the winter and will close for the winter after Sunday, October 31st. 

Winter Temperatures In The Midwest = Too Cold To Skydive

The main reason we end the skydiving season when we do is that in the Midwest it is simply too cold to skydive in the winter. These are the average high temperatures for late fall and winter in Wisconsin.

Average High Temperatures for Late Fall and Winter in Wisconsin

Now, if you think to yourself, “hmmm, that’s not that cold.” It’s important to remember that for every 1,000 feet of elevation you gain, the temperature drops roughly 3.6 degrees. At skydiving altitude, the temperature can be between 30 and 40 degrees colder than the temperature on the ground. In the winter, this would put the temperature at skydiving altitude in the negative! When you consider that exposure to temperatures below freezing (32 degrees Fahrenheit) can result in frostbite, Wisconsin skydiving in winter loses its appeal. 

The problem isn’t so much freefall—although, it would be quite painfully chilly as well. The primary issue with skydiving in winter is that you are beneath a parachute exposed to the cold for a teeth-chattering 5 to 6 minutes. To break it down a bit: typically, the parachute is deployed between 5,500 ft and 6,000 ft and using our general equation to determine the temperature at that altitude, you’d be floating about at a temperature of 7 degrees Fahrenheit. Although the temperature would increase as you made your way to the ground, by that point, you’d be chilled right through!

Our decision not to skydive in winter comes down to the comfort and safety of our guests and our staff. While we wish we could skydive year-round, it is simply not a viable option. But, there is a bright side: as they say, “absence makes the heart grow fonder” and by the time the spring skydiving season rolls around, we simply can’t wait to get back in the air!

What is the Best Time of Year to Go Skydiving?

Although there is no skydiving in Madison or Milwaukee, Wisconsin in winter, there are still plenty of other seasons to choose from! Be sure to wear the right attire and you’re guaranteed to have a blast.

Skydiving in Summer

Summer is the height of the skydiving season. With July and August as the hottest months of the year, we suggest scheduling in early summer to beat the heat. 

Skydiving in Fall

With comfortable temperatures and moderately clear skies, fall is a gorgeous time to skydive. Although, the winds, which level out during the summer, do begin to pick back up in the fall. 

Skydiving in Spring

The skydiving season at Wisconsin Skydiving Center begins mid-April. Skydiving weather in the spring is typically characterized by clear skies and high visibility. However, the winds this time of year do tend to be a bit higher. Booking earlier in the morning during this skydiving season gives you the best chance to get in the air without winds getting in the way.

To really get into the nitty-gritty of the best time to skydive, give this article a read: Best Time Of Day To Skydive In Every Season.

What Weather Can You Not Skydive In?

During any of the seasons in which we skydive, certain types of weather may still thwart skydiving plans. The usual suspects are low clouds, fog, rain, and high winds. 

Typically, we will contact customers two hours prior to their reservation time if it appears the weather will be an issue. Of course, if you have any questions regarding the weather, feel free to give us a call!

What Are You Waiting For?

Book your skydive early for the 2022 season! Schedule your skydive today. We guarantee you’ll have a great experience!