What to wear to a gun range? Wearing the right clothes to a shooting range goes beyond simply adhering to a set of rules—it’s about embracing gear that not only ensures your safety but also champions your freedom to move. Comfort? That's a given. But remember, the paramount goal is your safety. Let’s unpack the essentials of shooting range attire.

What to Wear to a Gun Range - Proper Shooting Range Attire

Stepping into a shooting range? There’s more to a proper shooting range attire than meets the eye.

Opt for clothing that feels like a second skin—unrestrictive, breathable, and designed to keep you cool and dry, especially during those marathon sessions that stretch your limits and your day. Let’s dive into the specifics of what to wear for an optimal experience at the gun range.

When choosing your attire for the shooting range, think practical over eye-catching.

Bright, reflective colors? They might just end up distracting other shooters. Instead, lean towards the subtlety of neutral or darker hues. Not only do they minimize distractions, but they also cleverly disguise gunpowder smudges and other incidental blemishes you might pick up along the way.

Practicality should always be your guide.

8 Shooting Range Outfit Tips

Dressing for a day at the gun range isn’t just a matter of rummaging through your closet. It’s a strategic choice that boosts your safety, comfort, and effectiveness. To help you gear up right, here are eight essential tips for selecting the perfect outfit for your next trip to the range:

1. Tactical Pants

Choosing the right pants for a day at the gun range is crucial—far more than you might initially consider. Opt for pants crafted from robust materials such as denim or tactical fabrics. These aren’t just durable against the inevitable brush with rough surfaces; they also act as a protective barrier against the searing hot brass casings that eject post-firing. In short, the right pants aren't just a part of your outfit—they're a key piece of your safety gear.

Check out these tactical pants for women:Additionally, think about the functionality of your pants. Seek out designs equipped with deep or multiple pockets. These prove invaluable for stowing essentials like extra ammunition, your shooting range card, or even small tools.

We recommend these tactical pants for men:When choosing your pants, also think about the fit. They should offer enough comfort to allow free movement, critical for situations where you may need to swiftly change positions. Yet, ensure they aren’t so loose that they turn into a safety hazard or impede your ability to move swiftly and efficiently.

2. The Ideal Shirt

The perfect shirt for a shooting range blends protection with comfort and mobility. A high-neck or closed-collar design is advisable to keep hot brass casings, ejected after firing, from slipping down your shirt—a situation that’s both distracting and potentially dangerous.

Choose shirts made from natural fibers such as cotton, which offer both breathability and comfort, particularly in warmer conditions. The fit of the shirt is also crucial. It should be snug enough to prevent it from snagging on the firearm or other equipment, yet not so tight that it restricts your movements.

Consider long-sleeved shirts for additional arm protection against hot casings and the sun’s rays (if you're shooting outdoors). If long sleeves feel too restrictive or warm, a short-sleeved shirt with a higher neckline is a good alternative, offering both comfort and protection.

3. Invest in Eye and Ear Protection

When visiting a gun range, safeguarding your eyes and ears is crucial. Gunfire can be harmful to your hearing over time.

Equally, your eyes are at risk from airborne particles and ejected casings. Here's an overview of the essential protection gear to consider:

Shooting Protection #1 - Shooting Earmuffs

Earmuffs are a must-have for any shooter, effectively shielding your ears from the intense noise at a range.

Choose earmuffs with a high Noise Reduction Rating (NRR). A higher NRR means better sound insulation, providing optimal protection for your hearing.

Consider the NRR28 shooter earmuffs from TradeSmart. These earmuffs are ANSI-rated, ensuring they meet rigorous standards for hearing safety.

These earmuffs fit comfortably over your ears without being overly tight, and they feature a US-certified 6-layer noise reduction system for superior protection.

Plus, they are available in a variety of colors, allowing you to select a pair that complements your shooting attire perfectly!

Shooting Protection #2 - Shooting Earplugs

Earplugs might not be as stylish as earmuffs, but they're much more discreet. Plus, they're super portable, so you can always keep a pair in your backpack.

In addition to earmuffs, consider using earplugs, especially in indoor ranges where the echo can intensify the sound of gunfire. TradeSmart's earplugs for shooting offer an extra layer of protection (NRR 33) and can be used alone or in conjunction with earmuffs for maximum protection.

They're small, portable, and can be easily carried in a pocket or your range bag. When choosing earplugs, look for ones that are comfortable to wear and provide a good seal in your ear canal.

Pro tip: If you want to kick it up a notch, slap on a pair of TradeSmart earmuffs simultaneously. These two work together like peanut butter and jelly and pump up the NRR to a whopping 38!

Shooting Protection #3 - Safety Shooting Glasses

Your eyes are just as vulnerable as your ears at a gun range. Safety shooting glasses are designed to protect your eyes from debris & ejected casings. Look for glasses that offer side protection to guard against debris coming in from different angles.

Another important feature is anti-fog capability, ensuring your vision remains clear regardless of temperature changes or physical exertion. The lenses should be made of a high-impact material.

TradeSmart's eye protection for shooting is a must-have for any serious shooter. Thanks to the anti-fog and scratch-resistant coating, there are no more foggy lenses and scratches.

As for the protection, these glasses meet both ANSI and OSHA standards. They come in clear and tinted options, so you can shoot in any light condition (outdoor and indoor shooting).

Plus, they offer UV 400 protection to protect your eyes from harmful rays. And the best part? They come in a variety of colors for you to choose from!

4. Tactical Shoes

The significance of the right footwear at a gun range is paramount. In choosing tactical shoes, focus first on safety and stability.

It’s important to wear closed-toe shoes. They protect your feet from hot brass casings that tumble to the ground and ensure a solid foundation for your shooting posture.

Ideal shooting shoes will offer a robust grip, a necessity, particularly at outdoor ranges where the ground may be uneven or slick. They should also support your feet comfortably through long periods of standing. For optimal comfort, seek out shoes that provide ample cushioning and arch support.

Check out these tactical shoes on Amazon:

 

5. Shooting and Range Accessories

The right shooting and range accessories can be a total game-changer.

A reliable holster for your firearm is crucial. It guarantees both safe and easy access to your firearm while ensuring it remains securely in place. Whether you opt for a hip, shoulder, or ankle holster, make sure it fits your firearm tightly and allows for a swift, fluid draw and re-holstering.

A sturdy belt is another key accessory. It needs to be strong enough to bear the weight of your firearm along with any additional gear you might carry, like extra magazines or a flashlight. A quality belt will evenly distribute this weight, alleviating discomfort and keeping your equipment securely fixed as you navigate the range.

Check out this tactical belt on Amazon:

6. Shooting Cap

The shooting cap is a classic accessory for any shooter worth their salt. A good shooting cap will not only protect your eyes from the sun and face from hot brass, but it'll also help keep loose hairs or pesky sweat out of your face.

TradeSmart Tactical Hat is designed with the shooter's needs in mind, offering both comfort and practicality.

Crafted from 100% cotton, this hat is only 0.01” thin, ensuring it's lightweight and comfortable even during long shooting sessions. The material is gentle on your skin, preventing itching and irritation. The moisture-wicking sweatband absorbs sweat and dries quickly, reducing discomfort and potential skin irritation.

The easy-clip closure with a 3/4" buckle allows for quick and easy adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit for any head size, as well as clipping the hat onto your belt or backpack when not in use. 

One of the standout features of our Tactical Hat is its compatibility with safety gear. The 'no-top-button' design and thin construction allow comfortable wear with TradeSmart earmuffs without breaking the noise seal.

This means you can wear your hat and earmuffs together without compromising on protection or comfort. Additionally, the hat is designed to be worn with safety glasses, ensuring complete safety during your shooting practice.

The hat's design is also ponytail-friendly, accommodating various hairstyles, and features added Velcro for personalization. Check it out below 👇

7. Bring a Jacket

Including a jacket in your shooting range attire is a smart move, regardless of whether you're shooting indoors or outdoors. A jacket serves multiple purposes, from providing an extra layer of warmth in air-conditioned indoor ranges to offering protection against the elements when you're outdoors.

• Layering for Temperature Control: Indoor shooting ranges can sometimes be cooler than expected, especially with air conditioning. A lightweight jacket can keep you comfortably warm, ensuring that your focus remains on your shooting practice rather than the chill. For outdoor ranges, the weather can be unpredictable. A jacket offers flexibility, allowing you to add or remove layers as needed.
• Protection from Brass Casings and Debris: A jacket also adds a layer of protection. Hot brass casings ejected after firing can land on your arms or torso. A jacket can help shield your skin from these hot casings, preventing burns and discomfort.
• Choosing the Right Jacket: When selecting a jacket for the range, opt for one that allows for ease of movement. It should not be too bulky or restrictive, as this can hinder your ability to aim and shoot effectively. Look for jackets with secure pockets, useful for carrying small items like extra ammunition or ear protection.

8. Tactical Backpack

A reliable backpack is an indispensable tool for any shooting enthusiast. It's not just about carrying your gear; it's about organizing, protecting, and having easy access to your essentials when you need them.

TradeSmart Tactical Backpack is a thoughtfully designed companion for every shooter. Here’s why it stands out:

• Ample Storage with Organized Compartments: The backpack features multiple compartments and specialized pockets, providing ample space for all your range essentials. This design ensures everything, from ammunition to protective gear, is neatly organized and easily accessible.
• Dedicated Protection for Your Gear: With a middle pocket boasting 5mm thick padding, items like flat targets or electronics are well-protected.
• Robust Security Features: TradeSmart Tactical Backpack features three separate TSA locks. One secures the firearms compartment, the second one secures your ammo compartment, and the third one safeguards your valuables, These locks offer peace of mind, especially when traveling to and from the range.
• Built for Durability and Comfort: Constructed with durable Cordura™ fabric and featuring branded YKK heavy-duty zippers, this backpack is designed to withstand the demands of range use. It’s water-resistant and tough against wear and tear. The adjustable shoulder straps and movable chest strap ensure a comfortable fit for any body type, making it easy to carry, even when fully loaded.
• Personalization and Versatility: The added Velcro on the front area allows for personalization, letting you add patches or identifiers. This feature, along with its versatile design, makes the backpack suitable for a variety of uses beyond the shooting range.

With this backpack, you'll be ready to take on anything the range can throw your way!

Conclusion

As we've explored, preparing for a day at the gun range goes beyond just selecting the right firearm. It's about equipping yourself with the proper attire and accessories that enhance safety, comfort, and functionality.

From choosing the right pants and shirts that protect you from hot brass casings, to investing in quality eye and ear protection, every element plays a crucial role in your overall experience.

By following these outfit tips and considering our specially designed products, you're not just dressing for the occasion; you're arming yourself with the essentials that make every shooting session safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable.