Whether you're in a tropical oasis or a bustling city, ziplines can give you a brand new perspective of your surroundings from several feet in the air. Each tour will offer different heights, speeds, and distances, so research them if you plan on adding them to your itinerary. Here are five questions to ask before participating in this activity so you know what to expect. 

What Do You Need to Know Before You Go Ziplining?

1. Is It Safe?

While there may be a risk, most companies strive to ensure the experience is safe. When you decide to book your zipline experience, start by researching the company and look to see if they've passed the standards required for them to operate. Check with them to find out what they do to protect their clients, such as frequent safety checks and line testing. When you're there, listen to the instructions and advice provided by the staff, and make sure you wear your safety gear at all times.

2. What Is the Weight Limit?

Weight limits are created to protect you. If an individual is too light, they might get stuck on the line. In contrast, if they are too heavy, it may cause them to go too fast. Each company will have different minimum and maximum requirements, although they're generally between 60 and 275 lbs.

3. How Fast Do They Go?

The speed of the ziplines will vary on several factors, including the rider's weight, the slope's angle, the length of the line, and the company providing the tour. Speeds can range anywhere from 20 mph up to 125 mph, but the average falls between 20 mph and 40 mph.

4. What Is the Dress Code?

Since you will be strapped to harnesses and other gear, wear light, breathable clothing that allows you to move easily and comfortably, such as T-shirts and leggings. Most companies will require that you wear closed-toed shoes as there is often hiking involved. 

You should avoid wearing accessories, such as sunglasses, necklaces, and scarves. If you have any loose items in your pockets, like your keys or phone, store them in a safe prior to ziplining. 

5. How Do You Make Them Stop?

There are two types of braking systems: active and passive. The former requires you to slow down by grabbing the cable as you wear a glove to protect your hands or pulling down on a brake lever to create friction. Passive breaking uses speed-reducing mechanisms to decelerate, leaving the rider from worrying about stopping. Each company will use a different method, so reach out to them ahead of booking if you have any concerns.

If you're ready to go on a ziplining adventure, contact Maui Activities Store in Lahaina, HI. For over 40 years, they have been creating adventures on land, air, and sea on the beautiful island of Maui. Call (808) 638-3230 If you're looking to enhance your vacation with an incredible experience at a low cost. Visit their website to view their zipline tours.