What to Wear to the Shooting Range: A Guide for Men and Women

Shooting ranges are great places to practice your skills, whether a beginner or a seasoned shooter. However, what you wear can greatly impact your experience.

In this guide, we'll discuss the shooting range attire separately for men and women, in both indoor and outdoor settings. We'll also cover other important aspects to ensure you are fully prepared for a safe and enjoyable experience.

For Men

Indoor Ranges

1. Comfortable Clothing

Indoors, comfort is key. Wear a well-fitted T-shirt or polo shirt. Avoid anything too baggy, because it can interfere with your movements. Jeans or cargo pants are ideal because they provide enough flexibility and protection.

Additionally, consider moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and dry. These fabrics pull sweat away from your skin, and help you remain comfortable during extended shooting sessions.

2. Protective Gear

Safety first. Always wear ear protection, like earmuffs or earplugs. Noise levels at shooting ranges can be damaging to your hearing, so proper protection is essential.

Safety glasses are a must to protect your eyes from debris, gunpowder, and shell casings. Many ranges provide these, but it's always good to have your own for a better fit and comfort.

For added protection, consider a hat with a brim to deflect any ejected shells and keep debris out of your face.

3. Footwear

Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes. Sneakers or boots are perfect. Avoid sandals or flip-flops as they offer no protection and can be unsafe.

Choose footwear with a good grip to prevent slipping, especially on potentially slick range floors. Steel-toed boots are not necessary, but shoes with strong, protective uppers are recommended.

Outdoor Ranges

1. Weather-Appropriate Attire

Outdoors, the weather is a big factor. In warm weather, a lightweight, breathable shirt and pants are best. Light colors can help reflect the sun's rays, keeping you cooler.

In cooler weather, layer up with a long-sleeve shirt and a jacket. Ensure your outer layer is not too bulky to avoid hindering your movements.

Consider wearing a moisture-wicking base layer to keep sweat away from your skin, which can also help regulate your body temperature.

2. Hats and Sunglasses

A hat can shield your eyes from the sun, reducing glare and improving visibility. Sunglasses with UV protection are crucial. They protect your eyes from harmful rays and glare, which can affect your aim.

Choose polarized sunglasses for better clarity and reduced glare, enhancing your shooting accuracy.

3. Durable Footwear

Outdoor terrains can be rough. Wear hiking boots or robust sneakers. Ensure they have good grip and support. Waterproof shoes can be beneficial if the ground is wet or muddy.

Footwear with ankle support can prevent injuries on uneven terrain. Look for shoes with breathable yet durable materials to ensure comfort throughout your shooting session.

For Women

Indoor Ranges

1. Comfortable and Practical Clothing

Choose a fitted T-shirt or a long-sleeve shirt. Avoid low-cut tops, as hot shell casings can fall inside, causing burns.

Jeans or tactical pants are great choices. They provide protection and allow ease of movement.

Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics for added comfort, ensuring you stay cool and dry during your session. Consider wearing layers to adapt to the range's indoor climate.

2. Protective Gear

Just like men, ear protection and safety glasses are essential. Properly fitting earmuffs or earplugs can make a big difference in comfort and protection.

Consider a ponytail or bun to keep your hair out of the way, reducing distractions and increasing safety.

A baseball cap can also help manage your hair and provide additional protection against ejected shells.

3. Sensible Footwear

Closed-toe shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots work well. Avoid heels or sandals, as they are unsafe and uncomfortable.

Choose shoes with non-slip soles for better stability. Ensure your footwear offers good support and comfort, especially if you’ll be standing for long periods.

Outdoor Ranges

1. Layered Clothing

Dress in layers for changing weather conditions. A moisture-wicking base layer, followed by a mid-layer like a fleece, and a waterproof jacket if needed. Ensure your clothing is not restrictive and allows for easy movement.

Opt for quick-drying fabrics if rain is expected. Lightweight, breathable materials can keep you comfortable in warm weather, while insulated layers can help retain heat in cooler temperatures.

2. Head and Eye Protection

A baseball cap or a wide-brim hat can protect against the sun, keeping it out of your eyes and reducing glare.

Sunglasses are necessary for UV protection and to reduce glare. Polarized lenses can enhance your vision, making it easier to focus on your targets.

Choose sunglasses with a wrap-around design for maximum coverage and protection.

3. Supportive Footwear

Wear hiking boots or trail shoes. They should be comfortable and provide good ankle support, especially on uneven terrain.

Make sure they are weather-appropriate. Waterproof boots are ideal for wet conditions, while breathable shoes are better for dry, hot weather. Look for footwear with a good grip to prevent slips and falls.

Other Important Aspects

1. Avoid Jewelry and Accessories

Jewelry can be a distraction and a safety hazard. Keep it minimal. Long necklaces or dangling earrings should be left at home, as they can catch on equipment or interfere with your shooting stance.

Rings and bracelets can also interfere with your grip on the firearm, affecting your accuracy.

2. Hydration and Snacks

Especially for outdoor ranges, bring water and snacks. Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining focus and energy levels.

Pack light, non-perishable snacks that are easy to eat, like granola bars or trail mix. Avoid sugary or heavy foods that can cause energy crashes.

3. Gloves

Consider wearing shooting gloves. They protect your hands from hot metal and improve grip, especially in cold weather.

Ensure they are comfortable and allow for dexterity. Look for gloves with padding in the palms for added comfort during prolonged shooting sessions.

4. Range Bag Essentials

Pack a range bag with essentials like extra earplugs, a first aid kit, and cleaning supplies for your firearm. Having these items on hand can enhance your shooting experience.

Include a small towel or wipes to clean your hands and face. A multi-tool can be handy for quick adjustments or repairs.

5. Personal Items

Carry a small notepad and pen to jot down notes or keep track of your performance. This can help you monitor your progress and identify areas for improvement.

A smartphone with a shooting app can also be useful for recording your sessions and tracking your scores.

Conclusion

Whether you're heading to an indoor or outdoor shooting range, dressing appropriately can make a significant difference. For both men and women, comfort, safety, and practicality are the guiding principles.

By considering these guidelines, you'll be prepared and ready to enjoy your time at the range, focusing on what matters most—improving your shooting skills.