Style is an individual skill demonstrated when a jumper exits an aircraft in flight and performs a specific series of maneuvers in freefall. An example of a style set is a right 360 degree turn, a left 360 degree turn, a back loop, and a repeat of that sequence. The jumper is filmed from a video camera on the ground with a telescopic lens, and a judge times the jumper's set from the moment they begin their first turn until they have completed the sequence. Shortly after, the jumper deploys his or her canopy. The quickest average time over a determined number of rounds wins the competition, but judges also award penalty time for improperly performed maneuvers.
This event requires a jumper that is completely focused, well trained, in total control of his or her body, and with the mindset to turn a fast and flawless style set. Cadets spend many hours training in a style harness on the ground to perfect their body positions and review video from the ground.
