How to Find the Perfect Shooting Clothing for Professionals

Shooting is a multifaceted activity that may take place in a wide variety of environments. Some of them, wilderness being the prime example, are untouched by civilization. They expose shooters to the elements and require us to come ready to confront wind and cold and whatever there is to confront. There are also environments and facilities created specifically for shooting. Ranges are equipped and furnished to meet shooters’ every need, which makes them a particularly popular choice for city dwellers. Each environment calls for different apparel, as the conditions and tasks it would have to perform are different as well. In this article, we’ll explore the  clothing for shooting ranges, as choosing hunting clothing deserves an article of its own.

Why You Need a Set of Range Clothing

First things first, let us clarify why you need a set of shooting range clothing in the first place. It’s not a marketing trick to talk into buying stuff you have no use for otherwise. And there’s much more to it than sentimental reasons like setting the mood and building associations. A separate set of clothing is more beneficial for your health. Since there is a lot of  shooting going on in the range, there is an excessive number of lead particles in the air. Modern filtration systems help reduce their volume, but those that linger will end up on your skin, clothing, and footwear. That's why it's important to have a separate set of clothing. It is also highly recommended to keep and wash it separately from the rest of your clothes to avoid cross-contamination.

Now that we’ve got the reasons out of the way, it’s time to get to choosing tips. Here’re the things you need to consider.

Type of Shooting Ranges

There are several types of shooting ranges, designed to accommodate different types of firearms and shooting styles. Saying that each of them has a dress code of its own would be an overstatement, but there are requirements an outfit worn to some of them should meet. If you are deciding on what to wear, here’re the types you need to be aware of:

Indoor shooting ranges: These ranges are located inside buildings and are typically used for small-caliber firearms like handguns or air rifles.

Outdoor shooting ranges: These ranges are located outside and can be used for a wider variety of firearms, including long guns like rifles and shotguns.

Tactical ranges: These ranges are designed for training law enforcement and military personnel in real-world scenarios, including shooting on the move and shooting from behind cover.

There is a dress code that is more or less ubiquitous. No shooting range will have you wearing open-toed shoes, like sandals and flip-flops, tank tops or low-cut tops, excessive and disturbing jewelry, and sagging pants. All for either safety or ethical reasons. It is also usually recommended to have as much of your skin covered as possible to preclude the chance of getting burned should a stray brass find its way to you.

Apart from that, each of the types will only have some minor deviations from the rest. Indoor ranges protect you from the elements so you don’t need to worry about wind, meaning you can dress in lighter garments. With that being said, it’s important to remember not to wear clothing that is too open.

For outdoor ranges, weather becomes a factor. We recommend taking a windproof jacket with you in case the weather changes. The same goes for a waterproof poncho or something of the kind. While many shooters prefer to abort their training when the weather spoils, you are not obliged to do so. If all shooters only trained outdoors in fair weather, some states would have no outdoor ranges at all. Just make sure you are dressed to withstand the challenges the weather might throw at you.

Dressing for tactical shooting ranges is all about mobility and protection. Tactical vests and pants are recommended as they provide extra protection from ricochets while allowing for greater freedom of movement. As dynamic ranges imply a lot of moving, your clothing should not restrict you. Be sure to wear something lightweight with plenty of pockets for mags and other stuff.

Personal Comfort and Breathability

Now to more recognizable and universal features. When choosing clothing for a shooting range, personal comfort and breathability are undoubtedly crucial. Shooting can often involve long hours on your feet, so it's important to wear clothing you feel comfortable in. Shooting range clothing should be all about functionality. That doesn’t mean you should neglect fashion whatsoever, if looks are something that concerns you, but comfortable clothing is the best clothing.

Breathability is another important factor to consider. In the heat of shooting, the air might get much warmer, so clothing that provides plenty of airflow is necessary. Breathable fabrics like cotton or synthetic blends increase airflow and can help keep you cool and dry. Ultimately, personal comfort and breathability should be a top priority when choosing clothing for a shooting range, as it can help ensure that you have an enjoyable time while you are on the range.

Proper Fit and Mobility

Proper fit and mobility are the ultimate advantages of dynamic range clothing, but it doesn’t mean they aren’t important for other occasions. Properly fitting clothing will allow you to strike a stance you want and to move freely while shooting, helping you remain focused on your target. Mobility is never a hindrance, so opting for garments that let you move freely is a safe choice. With so many size and fit options available, it's easy to find shooting clothing that fits well and provides all the necessary mobility.

Durability and Protection

Durability and protection are both features any garment should boast. Durability is closely related to the quality of materials. High-grade fabric is key for ensuring your clothing will make it through a decent number of visits to the range. Look for fabrics such as tweed, wool, and cotton blends that are designed to stand up to wear and tear. Additionally, look for garments with reinforced stitching and seams to ensure that they will hold up over time. Since durability is all about resisting the toll of time, acquiring durable clothing is the best way to spare yourself the trouble of buying it again.

Protection is also an important factor when selecting shooting apparel. We are not talking about protection from hazards like stray bullets or ricochets - only specialized gear can protect you from them. What we mean is being guarded against the elements. Rain, wind, and cold temperatures might take you aback, forcing you to retreat. Look for garments with features such as waterproofing or windproofing technologies that will allow you to comfortably resist elemental assaults. Additionally, look for garments with UPF protection, as harmful UV rays pose no lesser threat to your health. By investing in quality shooting apparel that offers both durability and protection, you can rest assured your clothing will stand by you in moments of need.

Additional Features

Utility features are a cherry on top of our shooting clothing cake. These complementary elements provide shooters with added convenience, and that is always welcomed. One of the most important utility features in shooting clothing is pockets. Pockets allow for easy access to ammo or any other small items that can come in handy while on a range. Having pockets also allows for a more streamlined look when wearing shooting apparel, as bulky items don't have to be carried around separately.

Conclusion

Choosing the perfect shooting apparel should be all about finding the best balance between comfort and functionality. With a close eye for detail and proper consideration of personal preferences, you will find that gun range clothing doesn’t have to be dull or generic. It can be both stylish and functional at the same time. However, it’s important to remember that in shooting clothing performance comes first. There are many pieces of shooting clothing available on Gritr Sports, so come take a look. There’ll definitely be something that catches your eye.

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