If you’ve booked your paragliding flight over Tenerife, you’re probably wondering what to wear and what to bring along to make the most of this unique experience. The good news is that you won’t need to purchase any specialist kit—simply choose appropriate clothing based on the island’s climate and flying conditions. In this complete guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about clothing for paragliding in Tenerife, suitable footwear, and how to prepare yourself for an unforgettable experience flying over the south of the island.
Appropriate Clothing for Flying
Your choice of clothing for your paragliding flight in Tenerife depends primarily on the time of year and the launch site. In the case of Tenerife South, where the Taucho launch site is located, weather conditions are generally very favourable throughout the year, though it’s important to bear in mind that you’ll be flying between 700 and 1,200 metres altitude.
Layering: The Best Strategy
A layering system is your best option for paragliding. Temperatures on the ground can differ from those you’ll encounter at altitude, particularly when the wind picks up during flight. We recommend wearing:
Base layer: A comfortable T-shirt, preferably made from a breathable fabric that wicks moisture away. Avoid cotton in winter, as it retains moisture and can leave you feeling rather cold.
Mid layer: A thin jumper or lightweight hoodie that you can easily remove if it gets warm or put on if it turns fresh. During the summer months in Tenerife (June to September), this layer may be optional.
Outer layer: A windbreaker is advisable only on the coldest winter days. It needn’t be an expensive technical garment, but it should protect you from the wind. In winter, an insulated jacket will keep you comfortable throughout the flight.
Suitable Trousers for Paragliding
Long trousers are always your best option, regardless of the time of year. They’ll protect you from scrapes against vegetation during launch and landing, and keep you more comfortable in the harness during flight.
Go for sports trousers, jeans, or hiking trousers. Avoid trousers that are too baggy (which might snag on things) or shorts, especially in mountain areas like Taucho where the vegetation can be rather troublesome for your legs.
Footwear for Paragliding: The Importance of Proper Trainers
Footwear is one of the most important aspects of your preparation for paragliding in Tenerife. Your feet are your “landing gear”, so you need footwear that provides stability, protection, and grip.
What Type of Footwear Is Best
Sports trainers with good grip or hiking boots are the perfect choice for paragliding. They must meet these requirements:
- Non-slip sole with excellent grip
- Ankle support
- Secure fastening with laces tied properly
- Comfortable for walking and taking a few running steps during launch
Absolutely avoid: Flip-flops, sandals, high heels, thin canvas trainers without grip, or any open footwear. These types of footwear would not only put your safety at risk, but could also compromise your flying experience.
For flights in Tenerife South, where the terrain can be rocky and the climate warm, running or hiking trainers are ideal. If you’re flying in winter or at higher altitudes, hiking boots will provide greater protection and warmth.
Essential Accessories for Your Paragliding Flight
Besides clothing and footwear, there are a few accessories that will significantly enhance your paragliding experience over Tenerife.
Sunglasses: Your Best Ally
Sunglasses aren’t compulsory, but they’re highly recommended. During the flight, you’ll be exposed to the intensity of the Canarian sun and air currents that can make your eyes water. Sunglasses will allow you to fully enjoy the spectacular views of Barranco del Infierno and the Costa Adeje area.
If you wear prescription glasses, don’t forget to bring them. The views from the air are stunning, and you won’t want to miss them through poor vision. You can combine them with sports sunglasses with a secure strap, specially designed for adventure sports. Contact lenses can also be worn perfectly well during the flight.
Gloves for Added Comfort
During the winter months, a pair of lightweight gloves can make your flight much more pleasant. Hands are particularly sensitive to the cold when we’re at altitude with the wind, though in Tenerife South temperatures tend to be mild even in winter.
In spring and summer, gloves aren’t necessary, but if you have sensitive hands or want to protect against any rubbing, thin gloves can be useful.
Sun Protection: Essential in the Canary Islands
Tenerife is renowned for its excellent climate throughout the year, with over 300 days of sunshine. Before your flight, apply sun cream to your face, neck, arms, and any exposed areas. Solar radiation is more intense at altitude, and you’ll be exposed throughout the flight.
Don’t forget lip balm with SPF, as lips can also burn easily during flight.
What to Bring on Your Paragliding Flight in Tenerife
Unlike other adventure activities, tandem paragliding doesn’t require you to bring much equipment with you. In fact, it’s better to fly light and comfortable.
Prohibited items: Loose objects that could fall, large rucksacks, professional cameras, or any valuables that might be lost during flight.
At Brisa Paragliding Tenerife, we provide all the necessary safety equipment: certified helmet, tandem harness, knee pads, and all certified technical kit. You only need to concern yourself with coming in comfortable clothing and with plenty of enthusiasm.
Specific Preparation According to Season in Tenerife
The climate of Tenerife South is exceptionally good throughout the year, which makes the island one of the best destinations in Europe for paragliding at any time. However, there are some seasonal differences you should consider.
Spring and Summer (April to September)
Temperatures are warm both on the ground and at altitude. This is the perfect time to fly in lightweight clothing:
- Short or long-sleeved T-shirt
- Lightweight long trousers
- Sunglasses
- Sun protection
Autumn and Winter (October to March)
Although Tenerife South enjoys a privileged climate even in winter, temperatures at altitude can be fresher:
- Long-sleeved T-shirt
- Thin jumper or fleece
- Windbreaker or insulated jacket
- Medium-weight long trousers
- Optional gloves
- Sunglasses equally important
Your Experience with Brisa Paragliding Tenerife
At Brisa Paragliding Tenerife, we’ve spent over 25 years sharing the passion of flight with thousands of satisfied passengers. Our tandem flights from Taucho, in the municipality of Adeje, offer you spectacular views of Barranco del Infierno and the Costa Adeje area.
We hold Active Tourism licences (TA-4-0026531.23), certified pilots with APPI and FAI IPPI international licences, and comprehensive public liability and accident insurance. We complete between 280 and 300 successful flights each month, with a 5-star safety rating.
Our multilingual team (Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, and Italian) will provide personalised service and take care of everything so you only have to worry about enjoying yourself. We include free transport from your accommodation in Costa Adeje, Playa de las Américas, Los Cristianos, Playa Paraíso, or Callao Salvaje.
Now that you know exactly what to wear and how to prepare for your paragliding flight in Tenerife, it’s time to take the next step and book your experience with us.
Additionally, you can opt for professional GoPro photography so you can take home an unforgettable memento of your experience.
Ready to fly? Give us a ring, send us a WhatsApp, or drop us a message. We fly all year round, weather conditions permitting, so any time is a good time to fulfil your dream of flying.
You don’t need any previous experience. We’ll take care of everything else. Come in appropriate clothing, with plenty of enthusiasm, and prepare yourself to live one of the most memorable experiences of your life flying over the landscapes of Tenerife.