Want to stay stylish while at the range? Great, but there are some things that you might want to avoid to ensure your safety like loose clothes or anything too open or too fitted. Here’s a detailed guide on what to wear at the range.
Credit: Envato Elements/ LightFieldStudios
General Clothing Guidelines
Most shooting ranges have dress codes to ensure safety. Even if your range does not, it’s important to wear clothing that can give you protection and allow easy movement.
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Avoid baggy sleeves, scarves, or anything that dangles.
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Avoid open jackets or sweaters.
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Wear only breathable, durable fabrics.
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Avoid clothes that expose too much skin (sleeveless tops, low cut tops, shorts, skirts).
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Wear only closed-toe shoes.
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Always wear ear and eye protection.
Pants and Bottoms
When it comes to bottoms, go with something that covers your legs completely to prevent hot brass and shell casings from landing on exposed areas. Here are some tips:
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Avoid shorts and skirts.
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Wear only long pants like jeans, cargo pants, or tactical pants.
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Go for materials like denim, canvas, or any other rugged fabric.
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Avoid leggings. While comfortable, leggings are usually made of thin fabric that does not provide adequate protection.
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Avoid anything too tight since it can make it harder to move, especially if you need to kneel, crouch, or adjust your stance.
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Pockets are a plus for storing small gear, earplugs, or spent casings.
Footwear
What you wear on your feet matters more than you might think at the range. Here’s what to keep in mind:
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Always wear closed-toe shoes. This is non-negotiable. Hot brass can hit the ground and bounce into your shoes. Hiking boots, tactical boots, or athletic shoes are good options.
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Avoid sandals, flip-flops, or open-toe shoes.
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Avoid heels or slick soles.
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Make sure your shoes are comfortable.
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Don’t wear new shoes that haven’t been broken in.
Eye Protection
Flying brass, debris, or gunpowder residue can land in your eyes. This can cause irritation and serious damage to your eyesight. Some ranges might provide eye protection as a complimentary option. Make sure to ask before you go.
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Look for ANSI Z87.1-rated glasses. Regular sunglasses or prescription glasses don’t cut it unless they meet safety standards.
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Wraparound styles are best. They offer side protection from flying brass and debris.
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Use tinted or clear lenses based on lighting. Clear lenses are great for indoor ranges or low-light conditions. Tinted or shaded lenses can reduce glare at outdoor ranges.
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Make sure they have a snug fit that stays in place even when you move or sweat.
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Look for anti-fog and scratch-resistant coatings.
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If you wear prescription glasses, you can either invest in prescription safety glasses or wear safety-rated over-glasses made to fit on top.
Ear Protection
The human ear can tolerate noise levels up to 85 dB. Anything above that can cause permanent damage. Gunfire is over 140 dB. Ear protection at the range is a must. Here’s what you need to know:
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Use proper hearing protection every time you shoot.
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Choose between earplugs and earmuffs (or use both).
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Look for a high NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) of at least 22 dB. The higher the NRR, the better the protection.
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Electronic earmuffs are worth investing in if you’re a seasoned shooter. They muffle gunshots but still let you hear range commands and conversations.
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Make sure the ear protection you choose fits properly.
FAQs
Can I wear gloves while shooting?
Yes, shooting gloves are actually helpful. They give you a better grip, reduce recoil impact, and protect your hands from heat. Just make sure they fit well and don’t interfere with trigger control.
What should I bring in my range bag (clothing-related)?
Pack an extra layer in case it gets cold, a hat to block the sun if you're outdoors, and a backup pair of eye and ear protection just in case.
Can I wear leggings or yoga pants?
Not ideal. They’re usually too thin and tight, which doesn’t offer much protection. Go for thicker, more durable pants that let you move freely and safely.
Final Thoughts
Dressing right for the shooting range keeps you safe and comfortable. Avoid anything loose, too revealing, or open-toe. And don’t forget your eye and ear protection—those are a must every time.
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