What To Wear Parasailing

Parasailing is one of the easiest and most exciting ways to experience the Alabama Gulf Coast.  Within minutes of leaving the dock, you can be floating hundreds of feet above the water with wide views of the shoreline, passing boats, and sometimes even dolphins and sea turtles swimming below.

If it’s your first time parasailing in Orange Beach, you might be wondering what to wear for the ride. Parasailing is designed to be an easy, relaxed experience for guests of all ages, and the right clothing helps you focus on the view instead of fussing with your outfit.

The best thing to wear parasailing is simple beachwear: a swimsuit or quick-dry clothing, secure water shoes, and sunscreen. Lightweight layers, polarized sunglasses, and a hair tie can also make your flight more comfortable on sunny days along the Gulf.

Here’s what our crew at Parasail Sky Surfer recommends, based on what we see working (and not working) on the water every day.

What Should I Wear Parasailing?

The ideal parasailing outfit is the same kind of clothing you’d wear for a comfortable beach day. Think light, breathable, and secure.

Swimwear

A swimsuit is the most common choice for parasailing, especially during warm Gulf Coast summers. Some guests also wear athletic shorts, a rash guard, or quick-dry activewear. These fabrics dry quickly if you get splashed and stay comfortable in the sun and wind.

Footwear

This is the one that trips people up most often. Flip-flops are not a good choice for parasailing. They can slide off mid-ride and become a hazard for anyone below.

What works well:

• Water shoes or aqua socks (the best option)
• Sandals with a secure heel strap
• Bare feet

Sun Protection

The Gulf sun reflects off the water, which means you’re getting hit from above and below. A rash guard or lightweight UPF shirt goes a long way toward keeping you comfortable, especially on longer rides or back-to-back trips.

Apply sunscreen 20 to 30 minutes before your trip, not on the boat. Sunscreen applied on deck tends to get on the harness and equipment. Give it time to absorb into your skin before you arrive.

What Should Kids Wear Parasailing?

The same basics apply, with a few additions:

• Apply sunscreen generously before boarding since kids burn faster on the water
• Water shoes are especially important for kids because soaked sneakers get uncomfortable quickly
• A rash guard is a great call for little ones who squirm
• Any hat needs a chin strap, or leave it on the boat

What NOT to Wear Parasailing

Some clothing items simply aren’t practical once you’re out on the water and up in the air.

Avoid wearing:

• Flip-flops or loose sandals
• Expensive or fragile sunglasses without a secure strap
• Loose clothing or cover-ups that can tangle in the wind
• Hats without chin straps
• Jeans or heavy cotton that absorbs water
• Jewelry or accessories you’d hate to lose

The general rule: if you’d be genuinely upset to lose it to the Gulf, leave it on shore.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to wear a lifejacket?

Yes, but you don’t need to bring your own. Our crew will provide coast guard-approved lifejackets for everyone on board.

Can I wear glasses while parasailing?

Yes, but bring a secure strap and be sure they fit snugly. Consider wearing a backup pair you won’t be upset about losing, especially if you wear eyeglasses. Cheap polarized sunglasses from the beach shop are a pro move for parasailing!

Can I bring my phone or camera?

It’s best to leave phones, cameras, and other valuables safely on shore or secured on the boat.

While it may be tempting to bring a phone for photos, anything dropped during a parasailing flight will fall directly into the water and cannot be recovered.

For that reason, our crew offers professional photo and video packages so you can capture the experience without worrying about your belongings.

Will I get wet?

Sometimes, but not always. Many parasailing flights stay completely dry, while others may include an optional splashdown where your feet skim the water before the boat gently lifts you back into the air.

Even if you stay dry, a little sea spray is always possible out on the Gulf. That’s why quick-dry clothing or swimwear tends to be the most comfortable option.

Do I need to bring a change of clothes?

It’s a good idea to leave one in your car or beach bag. You probably won’t need it, but if the boat hits some chop on the way back or you opt into the dipping experience, dry clothes feel great after.

Parasailing Outfit Checklist

Save this before your trip:

• Swimsuit or quick-dry clothing
• Water shoes or secure sandals
• Sunglasses with a strap
• Rash guard or UV cover-up
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Hair tie

Ready to Take Flight?

Now that you’ve got the gear side handled, all that’s left is getting out on the water. Our crew at Parasail Sky Surfer is here to answer any questions before you arrive. Give us a call or book online, and we’ll take care of the rest.