Everything You Need to Know About Zip Line Equipment and Zip Line Safety

Zip lining is the ultimate way to experience the surreal tropical jungles and natural beauty of Puerto Vallarta. You’ll feel like a bird in flight as you soar over greenery and skim across the warm blue waters of the bay. But if you’ve never been zip lining before, you may have some reservations.

Is ziplining scary? It certainly offers thrills and a rush of adrenaline, but it’s not really scary for those who are properly educated and prepared in advance. Even those who are a little antsy usually have all their fears melt away within seconds after their zip line adventures begin.

Check out the rest of this post for zip lining tips for beginners, including everything you need to know about zip line equipment and zip line safety.

Zip Line Equipment

When you go zip lining, you’ll be wearing special equipment to keep you safe and enable you to soar at high speeds down the lines. All reputable zip line companies, our tour companies like us, regularly inspect this equipment to ensure high quality and ultimate safety. Here is a list of the equipment you’ll be using during your experience:

• Helmet: As with all extreme sports, helmets are worn to protect your head from injury. Helmets should be free from any cracks or damage before putting them on. The helmet should be firmly strapped to the top of your head. Your guide will ensure your helmet is properly situated on your head.

• Harness: The harness will allow you to attach to the zip line via a rope attachment. Harnesses will be inspected by your guide before your first zip line adventure. Make sure the harness is in a comfortable position and is free of broken stitching.

• Lanyards, Carabiners, Pulleys, and Trolleys: All of these various pieces will be used to carry you down the zip line safely. Your guide will make sure your equipment is free from damage and ready for use.

Zip Line Safety

Zip lining is a thrilling activity that is generally totally safe, but there are definitely some precautions you should take when soaring through the air at high speeds. Be sure to listen to your guide and wear all the safety equipment. Never jump off the platform until you’re instructed to do so. Wait until other zip line users are cleared before you take a turn, and always pay attention to safety briefings. If you’re pregnant, over the weight limit, or have other health impairments, avoid using the zip line.

Zip Line Tips For Beginners

Once you’re familiar with zip line equipment and understand zip line safety precautions, there are still a few things you can do to optimize your zip line experience. Here are some zip line tips for beginners:

• Wear close-toed shoes. You don’t want your flip-flop to go flying off into the jungle, make sure anything you wear if firmly secured to your person.

• Choose comfortable clothing. You want to make sure your clothes fit the part. Wear gym clothes or otherwise breathable, loose clothing for the day.

• Empty Your Pockets. Again, you don’t want things flying out of your pockets as you rush down the zip line, so avoid bringing expensive gadgets or other items in your pocket for the zip line adventure.

• Don’t Take Selfies. We’re sure you’re dying to post your zip line adventure to Instagram, but play it safe and avoid taking selfies while in flight — we recommend leaving your phone on the ground anyway!

• Wear Sunscreen and Bug Repellent. Zip lines will take you to places you otherwise might not be able to explore, like the depths of the forest. This means you may encounter some bugs and strong rays of sunshine, so lather up the protective sprays.

Book a tour with Vallarta Adventures

Now that you’re prepared for your first zip line adventure, it’s time to plan your trip and book your zip line experience! Choose Vallarta Adventures for your zip line experience and you won’t be disappointed. We showcase the most thrilling zip lines and friendliest, most knowledgeable guides in the business. Book your zip line adventure today.