What do skydivers mean by “flare” when landing?

The term "flare" in the context of skydiving refers to the action of pulling down on the toggles of the parachute just before landing. This maneuver is crucial because it helps to reduce both the speed of the descent and the descent rate as the skydiver approaches the ground. By pulling the toggles down, the skydiver effectively changes the angle of the parachute, increasing its lift and reducing forward and downward momentum. This action is essential for achieving a safe and controlled landing, as a proper flare minimizes the impact and allows for a smoother touchdown.

In skydiving, mastering the flare technique is critical for developing landing skills and ensuring safety. A well-timed and executed flare allows the skydiver to transition from descent to level flight, thereby allowing for a gentle landing rather than a heavy impact that could lead to injury.