Skyout Quick Snap: Hydrate for Highs & Lows
The Colombian sun shines down directly on you and can be very intense. Here’s a quick refresher on staying sharp in Colombia’s heat while you chase cool climbs at cloudbase. Piedechinche can be 25–35 °C on the ground with 2,500–3,000 m cloudbase that feels much cooler. Here’s a simple hydration plan so you think clearly, climb longer, and land strong.
1) Pre-launch top-up (30–60 min before):
Drink 400–600 ml of water with a pinch of electrolytes. Light breakfast (carbs + a little salt) helps you start topped off for XC paragliding.
2) Carry the right volume:
Use a 1.5–2.0 L hydration bladder or two soft flasks in your harness. In hotter Piedechinche days, plan on 400–700 ml per flight hour. If it’s mild, you’ll need less; if it’s blazing, you’ll need more.
3) Electrolytes = clarity:
Heat + sweat = lost sodium. Pack electrolyte tabs or powder (no heavy flavors). Aim for 300–600 mg sodium per hour when it’s really hot. This keeps your head clear for thermal decisions.
4) Sip schedule you’ll actually follow:
Set a watch/vario reminder every 10–15 minutes. Two or three mouthfuls beats chugging. If you’re working hard on a climb, sip between turns.
5) Simple, non-melty snacks:
Stash dates, nuts, or a small bar/gel where you can reach them. A bite every 30–45 minutes steadies energy for transitions.
6) Post-flight quick reset:
Within 30 minutes of landing, drink 500 ml water + electrolytes and grab a salty snack. You’ll feel better at the evening briefing and be fresher for tomorrow.
Notes: Don’t overdo plain water (you’ll dilute salts). If your hands cramp or thinking feels fuzzy, you likely need electrolytes, not just more water.
Keep this handy for your next Piedechinche session—hydrate smart on launch, sip steadily in the air, and you’ll make better calls in every thermal.