What to wear when ziplining in Jamaica might not be the first thing on your mind as you stand on the platform, 80 feet in the air, clipped in, heart pounding, dreaming of soaring through the rainforest canopy.
Instead of embracing the moment, you might find yourself adjusting your shirt, feeling the sting of sunburn on your exposed shoulders, and wishing you’d worn different shoes.
If you’re planning to visit one of Jamaica’s epic zipline spots, this guide will ensure you have the essentials for a safe, comfortable, and unforgettable ziplining experience.
What to Wear When Ziplining (The Essentials)
Choosing the right clothes and shoes for ziplining can make all the difference in ensuring a comfortable and safe adventure.
Tops
You’ll want to wear fitted, breathable shirts that won’t billow up in the wind or get tangled in the equipment. Trust me on this one—I once had a visitor whose oversized t-shirt flew up and completely covered his face mid-zip! Him couldn’t see nuttin’, and while everybody else had a good laugh, he missed the spectacular view of the White River gorge.
Your best options are:
- Athletic/sports t-shirts made of moisture-wicking fabric
- Well-fitted cotton tees (though they’ll stay wet longer if you sweat)
- Rash guards or swim shirts (great for water-based zipline tours)
Avoid loose tank tops or anything with dangling elements that could get caught in the pulleys or lines.
Bottoms
When it comes to bottoms, you need something that provides coverage where the harness sits while allowing freedom of movement. The harness straps will wrap around your upper thighs, so ultra-short shorts aren’t ideal.
Good choices include:
- Athletic shorts that hit mid-thigh or longer
- Leggings or yoga pants (my personal recommendation for ladies)
- Lightweight hiking pants
- Quick-dry athletic shorts
Avoid wearing:
- Very short shorts (chafing nightmare, trust me!)
- Skirts or dresses (unless you want to give the rainforest a free show)
- Heavy jeans (hot, uncomfortable, and restrictive)
Shoes
If you are going to be doing the zipline in Jamaica, then having the right shoes is crucial for a safe and comfortable adventure.
The first thing to know is that closed-toed shoes are required for ziplining. This is for a few reasons.
- There is a lot of Hiking and Walking: Zipline tours involve considerable hiking and walking, so wear closed-toe shoes for support and protection.
- Consider Your Landing: Proper footwear is essential for a safe landing, providing traction to prevent sliding and ensuring you come to a stop safely.
Your best shoe options are:
- Athletic sneakers with good tread
- Hiking shoes for tours that include nature walks
- Water shoes for ziplines that include water elements
Leave these at your resort:
- Flip-flops or sandals (dangerous and likely to fall off)
- Dress shoes (slippery soles are a hazard)
- Any shoes you don’t mind getting muddy (our red soil stains are souvenirs you don’t want!)
Accessories
Keep accessories minimal and secure:
- Small secure pockets for absolute essentials
- Sunglasses with a strap (otherwise, say goodbye to them!)
- Hat with chin strap (regular hats become flying objects)
- Hair tie for long hair (nobody wants hair whipping into their eyes at high speeds)
What NOT to Wear When Ziplining
You might be sensing a pattern, but let me spell out what to leave at your hotel:
- Loose Items: Scarves, unbuttoned overshirts, or anything that can flap in the wind
- Valuable Jewelry: That nice watch or heirloom necklace could get damaged or lost
- Skirts or Dresses: For obvious reasons involving harnesses, wind, and dignity
- Heavy Materials: Jeans might be your go-to at home, but in Jamaica’s heat, you’ll regret them
- Open-Toed Shoes: Even if the tour operator doesn’t enforce this (they should), your toes will thank you
The last time I went ziplining, I saw a tourist arrive in a beautiful sundress and designer sandals. Unfortunately, she was turned away, which was disappointing since she had been looking forward to this adventure. Don’t let that be you!
Extra Packing Tips for Ziplining in Jamaica
Outside of your outfit, here are a couple items you might find helpful when ziplining.
Small Backpack Essentials
Bring a small backpack with:
- Water bottle (stay hydrated in our heat!)
- Bug spray (our mosquitoes love tourists)
- Small towel for sweat or rain
- Ziplock bag for electronics during unexpected showers
- Light raincoat (ideal for sudden downpours during Jamaica’s rainy season)
- Snacks (might work up an appetite)
Final Thoughts: Dress for Zipline Success
Proper clothing doesn’t just make your Jamaica zipline experience more comfortable, it makes it safer and more enjoyable too. Wear fitted, breathable clothes and sturdy shoes, and you’ll be free to focus on the freeing sensation of flying through our tropical jungle canopy.
Want my insider tip? Pack your zipline outfit separately the night before your tour so you’re not scrambling in the morning. And remember, no matter what you wear, bring your sense of adventure and your camera, the views from Jamaica’s ziplines are absolutely unforgettable!
