Why Our Play Parachutes are Right for Your P.E. Program
Physical education teachers and camp directors know that there are few things more universally loved by young students than "parachute day." Beyond the excitement, play parachutes are foundational educational tools. They teach cooperative movement, spatial awareness, turn-taking, and cardiovascular endurance without the competitive pressure of traditional sports. However, a flimsy retail parachute won't last a single semester in a high-traffic gymnasium. Seams rip, handles detach, and the fabric frays. Our 2026 collection features institutional-grade parachutes manufactured from heavy-duty nylon. With reinforced stitching at high-stress points and securely sewn handles, these canopies are built to withstand the aggressive lifting, shaking, and "mushrooming" of dozens of energetic children, ensuring your investment lasts year after year.
Top-Tier Cooperative Gear for Every Group Size
We stock the most reliable and highly searched cooperative play equipment on the market to ensure your program is equipped for any class size.
- Champion Sports Nylon Parachutes: These multi-colored canopies are the gold standard for school and camp settings. The vibrant alternating panels naturally engage students and make it easy to call out specific color-based commands (e.g., "Everyone holding red, switch places!").
- A Range of Sizes: To accommodate different student-to-teacher ratios and gymnasium sizes, our parachutes are available in multiple diameters. Choose from a 6-foot parachute (6 handles) for small group work, a 12-foot (12 handles) for standard classrooms, a 20-foot (16 handles) for larger PE classes, a 24-foot (20 handles), or the massive 30-foot parachute (24 handles) designed for full-grade assemblies or large-scale camp activities.
- Reinforced Sewn Handles: Safety and grip are paramount when thirty students are pulling on the same piece of fabric. Our parachutes feature heavy-duty webbed handles that are securely sewn into the hem, providing a reliable grip that won't tear away during high-tension games like "Popcorn" or "Igloo."
Why Buy Your P.E. Supplies From Morley Athletic
Since 1931, Morley Athletic has been a trusted family tradition and a leading supplier of premium athletic gear for schools, universities, and community organizations. We deeply understand the purchasing processes and budget requirements of educational institutions, which is why we proudly accept school purchase orders and offer customized quotes for bulk equipment refreshes. When you shop with Morley Athletic, you are partnering with a company backed by 95 years of industry expertise, exceptional customer service, and a steadfast dedication to providing the high-quality tools that keep your students engaged, cooperative, and moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I choose the correct size parachute for my class?
The ideal size depends on the number of students you typically have in a session. As a general rule:
- 6-Foot (6 handles): Best for 4-6 young children; great for preschools.
- 12-Foot (12 handles): Best for 8-12 students.
- 20-Foot (16 handles): Ideal for standard PE classes of 15-20 students.
- 24-Foot (20 handles) to 30-Foot (24 handles): Designed for large groups of 20 to 30+ participants.
2. What activities can you do with a play parachute?
Parachutes are incredibly versatile! Popular games include "Popcorn" (bouncing foam balls or bean bags on top of the canopy), "Mushroom" (lifting the parachute high and trapping the air underneath), "Merry-Go-Round" (holding with one hand and walking in a circle), and "Color Swap" (calling out a color and having those students run under the canopy to switch places).
3. Is the parachute material easy to clean?
Yes. Our parachutes are made of heavy-duty nylon, which is naturally moisture-resistant. If it becomes soiled, it can be spot-cleaned with mild soap and water, or carefully hand-washed and laid out to air dry. Do not put it in a hot dryer, as high heat can damage the nylon fabric.
4. Can these be used outdoors?
Absolutely. While they are a gymnasium staple, they are also perfect for outdoor fields and grass. However, avoid using them on rough asphalt or concrete, as dragging the thin nylon across abrasive surfaces can cause premature wear and tear or micro-tears in the fabric.
5. Are the handles strong enough for students to pull hard on them?
Yes. The handles on our institutional models are made from durable webbing and are cross-stitched into the reinforced outer hem of the parachute to prevent them from ripping out during high-energy pulling or leaning.
6. Do you accept school purchase orders for cooperative PE equipment?
Absolutely. Morley Athletic has worked directly with schools and universities since 1931. We happily accept school purchase orders. Athletic directors, PE teachers, and camp administrators can easily submit a formal PO to purchase parachutes and other movement gear for their entire organization.
