What to Wear at the Range
August 29th, 2023 | By Midwest Shooting Center
Shooting at an indoor range presents its own unique set of considerations when it comes to choosing the right attire. Indoor ranges offer a controlled environment, but safety and comfort should still be your top priorities. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the ideal clothing choices for an enjoyable and safe experience at Midwest Shooting Center.
Indoor Range Attire Essentials:
Comfortable Clothing: Opt for comfortable clothing that allows for a full range of motion. Our indoor ranges are climate controlled, so you don’t need to worry about the elements. Choose clothing that you can move freely in without restriction.
Closed-Toe Shoes: Closed-toe shoes with good traction are a must and are required in our ranges. While there might be less concern about outdoor hazards, it's essential to have sturdy footwear that protects your feet from any potential debris.
Appropriate Tops: When selecting your top, opt for shirts that prevent hot shell casings from being able to be trapped between your body and your clothing. This will not only enhance your comfort but also minimize the risk of any minor burns. Look for shirts made from lightweight, breathable fabric that fit comfortably without being too loose.
Pants: Opt for comfortable and durable pants that allow you to move without restriction. Jeans or tactical pants are often suitable choices. We suggest choosing pants without holes over shorts or skirts for added protection against hot shells hitting your legs.
Eye and Ear Protection: Eye and ear protection are critical at indoor ranges. Safety glasses or goggles protect your eyes from debris, while earmuffs or earplugs shield your ears from the loud noises. We recommend electronic ear protection since it amplifies talking and quiets the sound of gunfire making it easier to hear an instructor or RSO speaking. It can also be helpful to wear earplugs with over-ear muffs for extra protection.
What to Avoid:
Loose Jewelry or Accessories: Avoid wearing excessive jewelry or accessories that might interfere with your shooting or become entangled with equipment.
Baggy Clothing or excessive holes: While indoor ranges might have fewer potential snags, it's still a good idea to avoid overly baggy clothing or clothing with excessive holes that might impede your movements, catch hot brass, or catch on equipment.
Open-Toe Shoes: Open-toe shoes should be avoided due to the potential for dropped equipment, debris, or potential burns.
Inappropriate Necklines: It's best to avoid low-cut tops or V-necks that expose your neckline to potential hazards.
Bonus Tips:
Hat/Cap: Wearing a hat or cap can shield your head from the sun, as well as offer a degree of protection from falling shell casings.
Dressing for an indoor shooting range involves a balance between comfort and safety. Choosing comfortable, functional clothing that enables a full range of motion ensures that you can focus on your shooting skills without any distractions. By adhering to these guidelines, you'll be well-prepared for an enjoyable and safe time at the indoor range.