Which canopy size will exhibit quicker control response?

The choice of the 170 sq. ft. canopy with a 170-pound jumper is correct because a smaller canopy size typically offers increased responsiveness and agility. A smaller canopy experiences less drag and can change direction more quickly, which enhances control during maneuvers.

When a jumper's weight is well-matched to the canopy size, the parachute's performance will be optimized. In this scenario, a 170 sq. ft. canopy is a good match for a 170-pound jumper, ensuring that the canopy is neither over nor under-loaded, which provides the ideal balance for optimal control response.

Larger canopies tend to have a slower and less agile response due to their increased surface area and associated drag. As canopies get larger, they may require more time to change direction due to inertia, which results in a slower control response.

In contrast, a canopy size that is too small for a jumper may become overly responsive or hard to control, leading to a different set of challenges. Thus, the specific combination of 170 sq. ft. and 170 pounds creates a balanced and responsive system that is well-suited for quick control input.