Gym class parachutes became a standard part curriculum of schools in the early 1980s.
With their rainbow-like bright colors, play parachutes have proven effective in the development of visual processing, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills for children.
In an era dominated by iPads and iPhones, you do not want your child to be glued to their screen all the time.
All parents want their kids to turn out physically fit and agile to tackle all the hardships life throws at them, and gym class parachutes are the first stepping stone towards this feat.
Parachute games are often considered a great way for students to improve their team-building skills. It also gives them an ice-breaker to make friends with their classmates if they are new.
But before getting onto the games, it is crucial to choose the right gym class parachute that can withstand kids jumping around and playing. Strong enough to resist any strain applied and does not burn a hole in your pocket.
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Factors to Consider Before Buying a Gym Class Parachute
Materials
The majority of parachutes are made up of nylon, and some come in polyester as well. If we draw a comparison, we can easily deduce that polyester parachutes are less robust than nylon.
However, if playing outdoors in the sun is what you have in mind, polyester may be the better pick as it is highly absorbent and dries quickly.
Weight
Parachutes should be light enough to be considered portable but dense enough so that they do not get blown away by light winds in a playfield.
Scale
Parachutes come in all sizes ranging from six to thirty feet. Kids who are less than ten generally do well with smaller parachutes. A good rule of thumb is to order a parachute one foot larger than the number of people you plan to fit under it.
Price
Prices are quite similar for both nylon and polyester variants. A small six-foot parachute could easily be purchased for under $15, whereas the parachutes used in school gymnasiums are 12 feet in diameter and priced around 20-$35.
If you are hosting a big event that involves more than a dozen people, then you can also go with a 30-foot chute which will cost you roughly $150.
Apart from these factors, you should also ensure that the parachutes are well stitched and come with a handle pet foot of their diameter(for kids to hold onto).
Most brands also give out a carry bag along with their product which comes in handy when transporting your parachute.
Our Top Gym Class Parachute Picks
1) VOM Play Parachute for Kids
- OUR SHADES of our main colors selected are essential as they meet the fundamental psychological needs of children
- KIDS PLAY PARACHUTE 6 foot are FREE from substances harmful to the environment and human health
- QUALITY FOR THE MONEY: Try them and see for yourself ,safe and Guaranteed, If you have problems, just let us know and well send you a free replacement
- HIGH QUALITY of our parachute for kids 6 foot is confirmed by the use of extra-strong handles which will leave no doubts for you about the quality of the whole product
- ELECTRONIC COLLECTION of 235 Games with Parachute, Ideas and Variations (PDF),listing INCLUDES:Parachute Phonics Games,Childrens Eye Contact Games, Parachute Music Games,Parachute Math Games,et al
The VOM play parachute is made of 100% polyester and comes in four shades of colors to foster the visual development of children. It is also water-repellent.
The company also offers a manual of 235 parachute games that can be played, such as Parachute Phonics Games, Children’s Eye Contact Games, Parachute Music Games, and Parachute Math Games.
Reinforced stitching provides resistance against any wear and tear. The company claims that it is also resistant to the formation of any fungi and keeps the moths at bay.
What We Like
It seems to be pretty durable. Strong straps so far. Vibrant colors.
What We Don’t Like
I would have only liked the material to be a little softer, like a parachute. This is not true authentic parachute material.
2) Play Platoon Parachute 10′
- REINFORCED HANDLES are extra strong and won’t rip off even with heavy use.
- 10 HANDLES allow more kids to play and have fun at the same time. Perfect for parties!
- TEACHES COOPERATION and enhances motor skills through group games.
- MESH CENTER allows good airflow. Great for both indoor and outdoor play.
- INCLUDES CARRY BAG for easy transport and storage.
The Play Platoon Parachute is forged from heavy-duty nylon and comes with reinforced stress points and ten handles. It is an excellent option for kids and adults looking for cardiovascular conditioning.
What We Like
The Play Platoon Parachute is an all-weather parachute that is easy to carry and can be assembled without much hassle.
What We Don’t Like
The included carrier bag is quite flimsy.
The Verdict
Just the right size and easy for 6 to manage while walking. The weight is light, and I like the storage bag and velcro strap for easy storage.
3) Sonyabecca Parachute for Kids 6′
- Parachute size: 6-feet diameter, 9 separate handles spaced evenly around for group play(Teach turn-taking and cooperation)
- Promotes cooperative group play while helping to build muscles,Encourages cooperative play while building upper-body strength
- Reinforced mesh center allows ample airflow.Recommended Age Grading:3+
- Great at birthday parties and picnics(indoor or outdoor play)
- High-quality, durable 210T polyester taffeta fabric with reinforced web handles, Includes carry bag
The Sonyabecca parachute is extremely lightweight yet highly durable. The 6″ size is ideal for kids to hop onto.
It is made up of heavy-duty 210T polyester. This gym class parachute also comes in 20ft, 6ft, 8ft, 16ft, and 24ft size options.
What We Like
Being lightweight also enables air to be filled below this parachute easily, which aids in an advantage. It has a colorful design and is ideal for playing games such as Sea-Saw Pull, Make Waves, Mushroom, etc.
What We Don’t Like
Nothing!
The Verdict
The parachute is sturdy. We can play every game I can remember from my own childhood.
4) Dioche Kids Play Parachute 6′
- 【High Quality】Made of eco-friendly and durable non-toxic 100% polyester material, both rot-proof and Waterproof which ensure safety and health for kids when playing games.
- 【Multi Purpose】Gigantic fun for kids of all ages, promotes cooperative group play help training kidss team work ability, visual development, while helping to build body coordination and fine movement.
- 【Multi Occasions】6ft diameter, 9 separate handles spaced evenly around for indoor outdoor games exercise group play.Perfectly suitable for birthday parties, picnics, family gatherings, parks, school, parenting classes etc.
- 【Best Choice】Improve kids confidence, let children become more creative.Enhance children physical&communication ability and courage.Training children coordination and sensory integration capabilities.Best choice for you to create a good relationship with your kids.
- 【Parachute Size】6ft diameter, 9 separate handles spaced evenly around for indoor outdoor games exercise group play.Any question please feel free to contact us.
The Dioche kids’ parachute comes with nine handles for support when playing parachute games. This parachute is in the shape of a circle.
Dioche has also incorporated a water resistance feature in the parachute’s design with its 100% non-toxic polyester materials, which are eco-friendly.
What We Like
The Dioche kids’ parachute has a mesh feature in the center of it, which is a great help when playing gym class parachute games with a ball in the middle.
What We Don’t Like
My daughter is 9, and she can use it with four friends, but if there’s any more than that, it gets chaotic. And I want to use it too! I would suggest a 20-foot play parachute if it is for older kids or if adults want to participate.
5) Palos Sports Multi-Colored Children’s Team Building Parachute 24′ with 24 Handles
- Parachute measures 24’
- Contructed with quality 70 denier nylon
- All seams are over-locked
- 24 wrapped and reinforced handles
- Excellent for team building and cooperative play.
This parachute is geared towards the larger groups. It has 24 handles which are double stitched along with durable stitching and water resistance. The brand offers sizes ranging from 6-30ft.
What We Like
The handles are well-sewn into the parachute along a double seam on the edge. The 70 denier nylon makes a big difference. I would recommend this gym class parachute both for its quality and value.
What We Don’t Like
It’s a little on the pricey side, but I consider it a great value because the Palos Sports Play Parachute is so well-made you won’t find yourself in a situation where you have to replace it in the next few years.
Wrapping it Up
Make sure your parachute has at least one handle per person. While older people may be okay without handles, kids usually need something to hang onto.
When introducing parachute games, ensure your child can stand up and balance comfortably. Such games are not recommended for kids below two years of age.
Playing with a parachute will encourage your child to cultivate both cognitive abilities in their upper body. This includes arm, and shoulder strength, hand motor skills, and stamina.
Since it requires at least a bunch of participants, it will help your child develop teamwork and team-building skills and stretch his or her imagination.
It’s fascinating to think of all the advantages this simple piece of equipment can provide.
I hope you enjoyed this article about the best gym class parachutes! Stay tuned for the next one!
