Check Your Gear and Your Grip

Ever wonder if your harness is actually sitting right before you step off the edge? This post is all about the final, vital checks you must perform on your gear and your physical grip to ensure a safe, controlled jump. Even after 400 jumps, I still double-check my setup—because being too confident is how mistakes happen.

How Do I Check My Bungee Harness?

You check your harness by visually and physically inspecting every connection point, strap, and buckle before your feet leave the platform.

Don't just assume the jump master has it right. Even the best professionals at places like AJ Hackett rely on a secondary check. You want to look for:

• The Leg Loops: Ensure they aren't twisted and sit snugly against your thighs.
• The Waist Belt: It should be tight enough that it won't slide up toward your ribs during the recoil.
• The Carabiners: Check that every gate is fully closed and locked.
• The Connection: Look at where the cord meets the harness to ensure there's no fraying or wear.

It’s a bit of a ritual (and honestly, a great way to calm the nerves), but seeing the hardware locked in place helps settle that stomach-flip feeling. If something looks off, speak up immediately. It's your body on the line, after all.

Should I Wear Gloves for a Better Grip?

Wearing gloves can provide better control if you're holding onto a fixed bar, but they aren't strictly necessary for the jump itself.

Most people jump with their hands free or tucked in, but if you're the type who can't let go of the platform, your grip matters. If you're holding a bar, you'll want something with a bit of texture. Here is a quick breakdown of hand options:

The truth is, most of the "grip" happens in your head. If you're worried about your hands, you might want to read more about conquering the drop to manage that mental tension. Often, the physical grip is less about the hands and more about the tension in your core.

What Gear Should I Wear for Bungee Jumping?

Wear tight-fitting, comfortable athletic clothing and sturdy closed-toe shoes to ensure nothing interferes with your harness or the jump experience.

Avoid loose skirts, dresses, or anything that could get caught in the lines. If you're wearing sandals, you're asking for a bad time. I always suggest a solid pair of Nike running shoes or similar sneakers. You want your footwear to stay on during the bounce! One thing to watch out for: loose jewelry. It can snag on the harness or even your skin during the high-G recoil. Take it off before you get to the platform. It's much easier to manage your gear now than to try and find a lost earring in the grass later.