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What to Wear to Paintball: A Beginner’s Guide

If you're gearing up for your first paintball adventure, it’s important to know what to wear to paintball to ensure you’re comfortable, protected, and ready to have fun! Paintball is an exciting game that requires quick movements and strategy, so the right clothing and gear will make all the difference in your experience. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the basics of what to wear, the best footwear options, and tips for minimizing and cleaning paint stains. Let’s dive in and get you prepared!


paintball player wearing hoodie and other protective gear photo by BRC Productions

1. Clothing Basics for Paintball


When figuring out what to wear for paintball, the goal is to stay comfortable while protecting yourself from paintball hits. The right outfit will help keep you safe and make your day on the field more enjoyable. Here’s a quick breakdown of what to wear:


-Long-Sleeved Shirts and Long Pants: Always cover your arms and legs. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants (like cargo or athletic pants) work best, providing a barrier between your skin and paintballs. Avoid anything too tight or restrictive so you can move freely.

-Add Layers for Protection: Paintballs can sting when they hit, so wearing a few layers, like a hoodie or lightweight jacket over your shirt, can help cushion the impact. If it's chilly outside, thermal wear is a good option for added warmth and protection.


-Dark Colors or Camouflage: Dark colors or camo patterns are ideal since they blend into the environment, helping you stay hidden. Avoid bright or light-colored clothing that might make you stand out and become an easy target.


-Gloves: Gloves are often overlooked but are very helpful. They protect your hands not only from paintballs but also from rough surfaces or branches you might encounter on the field. Look for gloves that are flexible and have some padding on the knuckles. NR Adventure Park carries multiple options of gloves for purchase in the pro shop.


protective paintball gloves from infamous paintball

By following these tips, you can make sure you’re comfortable and well-protected, so you can focus on having a great time!


2. The Best Shoes for Paintball: Staying Safe and Comfortable


The right footwear is crucial when deciding what to wear to paintball. Paintball fields often have rough terrain, including mud, rocks, grass, and tree roots, so having supportive shoes is essential.


-Always Wear Closed-Toe Shoes: To protect your feet from injuries, closed-toe shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots work well, as they shield your toes from bumps and scrapes.


-Support Your Ankles: Ankle support is important, especially when running or changing direction quickly. High-top sneakers or hiking boots are great options because they help prevent sprains and give you more stability on uneven ground.


-Shoes with Good Traction: Since paintball fields can be slippery or muddy, shoes with a strong grip are key. Look for trail running shoes, soccer cleats (without metal spikes), or boots that are designed for traction to keep you steady and safe during the game.


Choosing the right shoes will help you move confidently and safely across different terrains, so you can focus on the fun part—playing paintball!


3. Extra Protection: Camouflage Jumpsuits


protective camo jumpsuit for wearing to play paintball

If you’re still wondering what to wear for paintball or worried about ruining your clothes, don’t worry! At NR Adventure Park, we offer camouflage jumpsuits for sale. These are perfect for adding an extra layer of protection and keeping your clothes clean.


Here’s why our jumpsuits are a great option for beginners:

-Keep Your Clothes Clean: By wearing a jumpsuit over your regular outfit, you’ll minimize the amount of paint that gets on your clothes.

-Blend Into the Field: The camouflage pattern helps you stay hidden, giving you a little extra advantage as you move around.


Our jumpsuits are comfortable and easy to wear, so if you’re new to paintball and unsure about what to wear, this option keeps things simple and ensures you’re well-protected.


4. Do Paintballs Stain Clothes?


A question we often hear from new players is, “Will paintballs stain my clothes?” Generally, the answer is no, but it’s good to be prepared just in case:


-Water-Soluble Paint: Paintballs are filled with water-soluble paint, designed to wash out of clothing easily. If you wash your clothes soon after playing, you likely won’t have any permanent stains.

-Fabric Matters: Some fabrics, like cotton, may absorb paint more easily than others. To reduce the risk of stains, consider wearing synthetic materials like polyester, which don’t hold onto the dye as much.

-Act Quickly: If you can, rinse your clothes with cold water as soon as possible after playing to prevent any paint from setting. The quicker you wash them, the better the results.


While paintballs are typically non-staining, wearing older clothes or our camouflage jumpsuits at NR Adventure Park can keep your favorite clothes safe and stress-free.


5. Tips for Cleaning Paintball Stains


Even though paintballs are designed to wash out, you may still find some stains after a day of play. Here are a few simple steps to make sure your clothes stay clean:


-Rinse with Cold Water: Right after playing, rinse the stained area with cold water to wash away as much paint as possible. Avoid hot water, as it can make the stain set in.

-Use Mild Detergent: When washing your clothes, use a mild detergent to help lift the paint from the fabric. Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the fabric.

-Soak if Needed: If the stain doesn’t come out on the first wash, soak your clothes in a mixture of cold water and detergent for about 30 minutes before washing them again.

-Air Dry: Let your clothes air dry to prevent shrinking and keep the fabric in good condition. Heat from a dryer could cause any remaining paint to set permanently.


Following these steps will help keep your paintball gear and clothes looking clean and ready for your next visit to the field.


Conclusion: Get Ready for Your Paintball Adventure!


If you’re new to paintball and wondering what to wear, this guide has everything you need to prepare for a fun and safe day on the field. From choosing the right long-sleeved shirts and supportive shoes to renting our camouflage jumpsuits for extra protection, you’ll be fully prepared for an exciting experience at NR Adventure Park.


Remember, the goal is to have fun while staying comfortable and safe. With the right gear, you’ll be ready to make the most of your time on the paintball field. See you out there!


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