4
Non-Wingsuit Use
As stated elsewhere in this manual and in the product description, the OMICRON is designed
specifically and primarily for experienced wingsuit pilots to use while wingsuit skydiving. If you
choose to jump the OMICRON without a wingsuit, always deploy at airspeeds within the
operating limits of the canopy.
The ideal pilot chute size for wingsuit use is not the same for Freefly/RW/typical non-wingsuit
skydives. It may be necessary to change your pilot chute for non-wingsuit jumps.
The ideal packing technique for wingsuit use is not the same as for Freefly/RW/typical non-
wingsuit skydives. It may be necessary to adjust your packing technique for non-wingsuit jumps. In
addition to a more appropriate pilot chute size, we recommend a more tightly rolled tail, a rolled
and/or carefully prepared nose, and extra attention to slider positioning. Again, always moderate
your freefall speed to within the canopy operating limits before deployment.
Some Information About Wingsuit Parachute Openings
PLEASE NOTE:
The PC selection, bridle size, packing techniques, etc, which are discussed
in this manual are not only specific to the OMICRON. This is information that, according to
our testing and experience, applies to most canopies which are generally accepted to be
wingsuit appropriate.
Openings, and the factors that determine opening characteristics
It is important to tailor your openings to your desired speed, consistency, and force, by controlling not
only packing technique but also airspeed and body position at deployment.
Pilot Chute (PC)
When flying a wingsuit, a larger pilot chute than what is typically used for normal skydiving is
recommended. We recommend a 26” to 30” ZP toroidal arc design such as the SkySnatch. Choose
the size based on your typical airspeed at deployment, which will vary with wingsuit type and
experience. Contact Squirrel LLC for guidance on PC size selection, if needed.
Bridle
Bridle length is a key factor for wingsuit jumping. It is recommended to use a bridle that is long
enough to extend the pilot chute beyond the worst area of wake turbulence behind you during
deployment. Many skydiving bridles are considered to be too short for wingsuit use. Today, many
wingsuit pilots use bridles that are in the range of 8 feet (2.4m) in length, from pin to PC.
Deployment bag
Testing has shown that stowless and semi-stowless d-bags yield better openings than traditional
rubber-band-stow d-bags. Consider their use under the guidance of an experienced rigger who
understands the factors around wingsuit parachute deployments. Heavy magnet-closed stowless
bags are
NOT recommended
.
Slider Positioning
During packing, it is critical that you position your slider symmetrically and seat it properly against
the slider-bumpers on your canopy. The size and aspect ratio of the OMICRON’s slider is designed
specifically for this canopy, and it is vital that you consult with Squirrel before changing your slider.
Collapsing and resetting your slider
The OMICRON’s collapsible slider must be reset to the fully extended position each time you pack
your parachute. Failure to do so may result in equipment damage, serious bodily injury, or death.
