If you or your kids have been invited to a paintball party at Yorkshire Outdoor Activity Park, you might be wondering one simple thing before the day arrives.
What on earth should we wear?
It’s a really common question, especially for first timers and parents. The good news is that paintball is far less complicated than people think. You don’t need specialist gear, and you certainly don’t need to go out and buy anything new. A bit of common sense and you’ll be absolutely fine.
Below is a straightforward guide to help you turn up prepared, comfortable, and ready to enjoy the day.
The Golden Rule
Dress for the outdoors, not the catwalk.
Paintball is played in woodland game maps, not on a football pitch. Expect uneven ground, leaves, mud in winter, and dust in summer. Comfort and practicality always beat fashion.
Clothing Basics
Long Sleeved Top and Trousers
Long sleeves and full length trousers help protect your skin from direct paintball impacts and from scratches caused by branches and undergrowth.
Wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting muddy. Paintballs are water soluble and normally wash out, but rips and scuffs are always a possibility.
Layers are ideal, especially outside the summer months. Once the games start, you warm up very quickly.
Footwear That Can Handle the Woods
Good footwear makes a huge difference.
- Trainers are fine in dry weather
- Boots are better after rain or in winter
- Avoid smooth soled shoes
You’ll be running, crouching, and moving over uneven ground, so grip matters more than style.
Gloves
Hands are one of the most sensitive places to be hit, particularly in colder weather.
If you have a pair of gloves at home, bring them. If not, don’t worry.
We have armoured gloves available on the day.
Protective Equipment We Provide
This is the part that reassures most parents.
Paintball Mask
We supply full face paintball masks with thermal lenses.
They protect your eyes, face, and ears and do not fog up.
You must wear your mask at all times in the game areas. Safety always comes first.
Camouflage Coveralls
Everyone is issued with camouflage coveralls on arrival. These go over your clothes and keep them clean while also helping you blend into the environment.
Because of this, the colour of the clothes underneath really doesn’t matter.
Seasonal Tips
Winter Paintball
- Wear layers rather than one thick jumper
- Gloves make a big difference
- Once the game starts, you’ll warm up quickly
Summer Paintball
- Shorts and a t shirt are fine under the coveralls
- Light layers are better than heavy clothing
- Bring water and sunscreen on hot days
What Not to Wear
There are a few things best left at home:
- Brand new or expensive clothes
- Flip flops, sandals, or smooth soled shoes
- Jewellery that could snag
- Anything tight or restrictive
Comfort and movement are far more important than how you look.
Kids Paintball and Adult Paintball
The clothing advice is exactly the same for kids paintball and adult paintball.
The difference is in the equipment velocity, not what you wear.
Everything essential is supplied, and our marshals are always on hand to help younger players feel confident and safe.
Final Thought
You don’t need specialist kit to enjoy paintball. Turn up in old, comfortable clothes, wear sensible footwear, and let us handle the rest.
Once the whistle blows and the first game starts, you’ll forget all about what you’re wearing and focus on the important things.
Running around the woods, laughing with your mates, and trying not to get shot.
That’s what paintball is really about.
