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What to Wear and Bring to Airsoft: A First-Timer Checklist

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Good news: you do not need to spend a fortune to play your first game of airsoft. You almost certainly have most of what you need in the wardrobe already. Here is the simple, no-nonsense checklist for what to wear and what to bring.

The one thing you must have: eye protection

Eye protection is not optional, ever. It is the single most important rule in airsoft and it is strictly enforced on every UK site. You need full-seal goggles or glasses rated to a proper impact standard, not fashion sunglasses. If you are hiring kit from us, eye protection is included, so this one is sorted for you on a Beginners Day.

Tip: a lower-face mesh mask is well worth it too. Teeth and lips do not enjoy a close-range BB, and a mask makes the day far more comfortable for new players.

An airsoft player adjusting full-seal goggles and a mesh face mask before a game in woodland
Eye protection first: get your goggles and mask fitted properly before you play.

What to wear, top to bottom

The aim is simple: cover your skin, stay comfortable, and do not wear anything you would be upset to get muddy.

  • Top: a long-sleeved top or, even better, a hoodie. The extra layer takes the sting out of hits.
  • Legs: tough trousers such as jeans, combats or walking trousers. Avoid shorts.
  • Feet: sturdy boots or trainers with good grip and ideally ankle support. Woodland gets uneven and muddy.
  • Hands: any gloves. Fingers are a common hit and they sting, so cover them.
  • Head: a cap or beanie, plus a snood or scarf for your neck.

Darker, muted colours such as green, grey, brown and black help you blend in, but you do not need camouflage to start. Wear what you have.

What to bring on the day

  • Plenty of water and some snacks or lunch
  • A small bag to keep your bits in
  • A waterproof or warm layer, this is the UK after all
  • A spare top and a towel, you may get sweaty or muddy
  • Any personal medication, for example an inhaler
  • Cash or card for entry, hire and BBs
  • Your ID if you are hiring or buying anything age restricted

What not to wear

  • Shorts and short sleeves: bare skin takes hits harder and offers no protection from brambles.
  • Open shoes: no sandals or flip-flops. You need a proper closed boot or trainer.
  • Anything valuable or delicate: leave the nice watch and white trainers at home.

Worried about the hits?

It is the most common first-timer question and it is a fair one. The short answer is that a hit stings for a moment and then it is gone. We go into detail, including how clothing reduces what you feel, in does airsoft hurt. For the full picture on getting started, see our complete UK beginners guide.

Turn up with nothing, play all day

Our hire packages include a gun, eye protection and BBs, so a Beginners Day is the easiest way to try airsoft.

See Beginners Days

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear jeans to airsoft?

Yes. Jeans are a great first-timer choice: tough, cheap to replace, and they take the sting out of hits. Pair them with a hoodie and boots and you are sorted.

Do I need camouflage clothing?

No. Muted colours help you hide, but any dark, hard-wearing clothing is fine to begin with. Save the camo for when you are sure you are hooked.

Is eye protection really compulsory?

Yes, on every UK site without exception. Full-seal, impact-rated eye protection must be worn whenever you are on the game field. If you hire kit, it is included.

What should I bring for my first game?

Water, lunch, a warm or waterproof layer, gloves, a small bag, and cash or card for entry and BBs. See the full checklist above.