Most, but not all, tracks need riders to weigh somewhere between 65 and 275 pounds to ride the canopy tour. Weight limits are set by the designer/builder of the given playground. Canaan zip line riders must weigh between 75 and 265 pounds per our designer/builder. Before booking a tour, always check with the supplier you are interest in.
So, if this equipment is so powerful, why are there weight limits?
Let’s take a quick look at how a gravity zip line works to understand better why weight limits matter. Put, a zip line works by running a cable from one high point to a lower point. But, the cable is not tight and designed with a bend in the middle. If it were tight, you would zip too. You gain momentum when you leave the platform and head towards the lowest point of the drop. Once you cross the lowest point of the cable, you now travel back up the cable towards the next platform. The momentum you built going down the cable now carries you back up to the next. Stopping point.
And this is where weight limits come into play.
- Participants under the weight limit risk not building. Which is enough momentum to carry them along the entire length. And may end up in the middle of the cable. Although not “dangerous,” it can be uncomfortable and scary waiting in line for a guide to come and get you. Such rescues can also be time-consuming and cause the course to suspended. Until the participant is safe on the platform.
- Overweight attendees have the opposite effect on underweight guests. Participants above the weight limit will gain much more momentum. And is in danger of plateauing too. Arrival too fast may result in a collision instead of a smooth landing. A person coming at these speeds can cause quite serious injuries.
While zip lining is a lot of fun, going rogue over or under the weight limit. Which can put you and others at very real and unnecessary risk. Always check the weight limits with your chosen clothing supplier. And be honest about them. Some have a “curvy” window and will let you drive if you’re close enough. Besides, some clothing manufacturers have other exciting and fun options. That allow for different weight limits.
Things you should know before using the Zip-Line for the first time:
1. Is the zip lining safe?
Zip lines have a reputation for being fun and safe. But, everyone should be aware of certain risks associated with zip line riding. A 2015 study looked at data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System. Which found 16,850 zipper-related injuries between 1997 and 2012. Near half of zip cord injuries occurred in people aged nine and younger. And most injuries caused by falls. Death, although rare, has also happened on zip lines.
When you’re on the zip line course, pay attention. Follow the rules on any signage and listen to staff instructions. Always wear safety equipment. And if you have any concerns about the zip line course, please mention them to the staff.
That said, zip lining is an extreme popular activity. Tens of thousands of people have a safe zip line experience every year. Do your due diligence, follow the directions, and you’ll be fine.
2. How scary is the zip lining?
As someone who has tried about 20 zip lines worldwide, I’ll be honest: It’s scary. Not scary, but the zippers will make your heart skip a beat. The scariest part of the zip line ride is jumping off the platform. You have to fight your instincts and trust your guides and equipment to make the jump finally – but it’s worth it. You will feel completely free as you defy gravity and approach the trees. The wind blowing in your hair and your feet swinging beneath them. You’ll find the experience so exhilarating that you’ll want to hop on another zip line and take off again. Once you’ve completed your first ride.
3. What is the weight limit for the zip lining?
It is common for zip line operators to boast that their equipment is capable of holding a truck. But, their zip lines usually still have a weight limit to protect guests. A rider who is too light could inadvertent stop mid-zip. Resulting in a less-than-optimal experience. Too heavy riders can hit the landing pad too quick, potential causing injury.
4. What should you wear to ziplining?
Your clothing will direct impact. How comfortable you will be throughout your zip line tour. Wear breathable layers in which you can move easiy. Long shorts, pants, leggings, or capris will provide padding against the harness. And make the ride more comfortable. On warmer days, throw on a T-shirt or tank top. A long-sleeved shirt or sweatshirt may be a better option in colder weather. Choose tight-toed shoes such as high-tops or trainers. Flip-flops and sandals are a no-no on many zips as they are prone to falling off in the air. You should also avoid accessories and clothing. (such as scarves, hats, and long necklaces) that could get tangled in the zipped cart or off while driving. If you wear glasses, fasten them around your neck with a lanyard. Your guide will provide you with all the protective gear of safety gear. You will need for the zip line.
Final words:
Nothing compares to your first zipline experience. You put on your helmet and harness, click into the cart, and stand on the platform’s edge. Somehow, it’s much higher up there than it looked from the ground. But after gathering the courage, you take a deep breath, grab the handrails and jump off the platform.
Zip lining is one of those quintessential adventures. That every thrill seeker should experience at least once. Want to try it on your next trip? Here’s what you need to know before you zip line for the first time.
