When it comes to choosing what to wear for archery, having the right clothing and accessories can make all the difference in your comfort and performance on the range. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned archer, it’s important to dress appropriately for the sport. But with so many choices on offer, things can quickly become complicated.

Here are some essential clothing items and accessories that you should consider wearing when you head to the archery range.

In general, choose clothing that is comfortable and yet functional at the same time. Opt for moisture-wicking materials that aren’t too tight or too loose where applicable and shoes that are comfortable enough to be worn for long periods of time.

In this article, we’re going to talk about exactly what to wear for archery, and probably more importantly, why you should wear the items we are suggesting.

What To Wear For Archery?

When it comes to choosing what to wear for archery, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, comfort is essential.

You’ll be spending hours at the shooting range, so it’s important to wear clothing that allows for ease of movement and doesn’t restrict your shooting form.

Opt for breathable and lightweight materials that will keep you cool and don’t restrict your movement, especially if you’re practising in an outdoor range or under hot weather conditions.

1. Shoes at the Archery Range

When it comes to choosing the right footwear for the archery range, comfort and stability are key.

You want shoes that provide a solid grip on the ground and keep your feet firmly planted. You’re going to be standing for long periods, so you also want shoes that are going to allow your feet to breathe and expand in hotter weather.

Sneakers or athletic shoes with a flatter sole are great options for the archery range because they offer cushioning, flexibility, and traction.

If you’re shooting outdoors in wet or muddy conditions, consider wearing waterproof boots with good traction to keep your feet dry and prevent slipping.

Additionally, ankle support is important to prevent any strain or injury while moving around the archery field.

Remember, your footwear should complement the purpose of your archery without hindering your performance.

2. Pants at the Archery Range

First and foremost again, comfort is the way to go.

You’ll be spending a significant amount of time on your feet, therefore, opt for pants that allow freedom of movement without being too restrictive.

One popular choice among archers is athletic or performance-oriented pants.

These pants are often made from lightweight, breathable fabrics that wick away moisture to keep you cool and dry during those hot summer days at the outdoor range.

Another important consideration when it comes to archery pants is fit. It’s crucial to choose a pair that fits well around your waist and hips without being too tight or too loose.

Pants that are too snug may restrict your movements and hinder your shooting form, while overly baggy pants can create unnecessary bulkiness and interfere with your stance.

Additionally, some archers prefer pants with reinforced knees or padded areas around the hips for added comfort during prolonged periods on the archery field.

These features can provide extra cushioning and support when kneeling or crouching down to retrieve arrows or adjust targets.

The colour choice is also worth mentioning.

While it may not directly impact your performance, opting for darker-coloured pants can help conceal dirt and grass stains that may accumulate while practising outdoors.

3. Shirts at the Archery Range

Opting for a lightweight and breathable fabric is essential, as it will enhance your overall experience and prevent you from feeling restricted while shooting arrows.

Look for shirts made from materials like polyester or blends that offer moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool and dry throughout your practice session.

Another important consideration is the fit of your shirt.

It’s advisable to choose a slightly loose-fitting or regular-fit shirt that allows for ease of movement.

Avoid shirts that are too tight or restrictive, as they can hinder your ability to draw and release the bowstring smoothly.

Additionally, consider the length of the sleeves – short sleeves are generally more comfortable during warmer months, while long-sleeved options provide added protection against sunburns or insect bites if you’re shooting outdoors.

However, it’s common to see archers wearing solid-coloured shirts in neutral tones such as black, grey, or white.

This helps minimize distractions and ensures that your focus remains on perfecting your aim.

Avoid shirts with large logos or patterns that may interfere with sighting down the bowstring alignment or distract other archers at the range.

Accessories At The Archery Range

There are a few key items that can enhance both your performance and comfort on the shooting range.

Let’s dive into some desirable, but not essential accessories that you could consider bringing along with you.

1. Hat

Firstly, you’ll want to ensure that the hat provides ample protection from the sun’s rays.

Spending long hours at the archery range or shooting area means exposing yourself to potentially harmful UV radiation.

Opt for a hat with a wide brim that can shield your face, ears, and neck from direct sunlight.

This will not only protect your skin but also improve your overall comfort during those sunny practice sessions.

Additionally, it’s essential to select a hat that won’t interfere with your shot execution.

A hat with a low profile or one that can be easily adjusted to fit snugly on your head is ideal. You don’t want any loose ends flapping around or obstructing your vision when aiming at the target range.

Consider choosing a hat made from lightweight and breathable material such as cotton or moisture-wicking fabric.

This will help keep you cool and comfortable, especially during intense shooting sessions where perspiration can become an issue.

Another aspect to keep in mind is the design and colour of the hat. While personal style preferences may vary, it’s generally recommended to opt for neutral colours such as black, grey, or camouflage patterns that blend well with outdoor surroundings.

Brightly coloured hats may attract unnecessary attention and potentially distract other archers sharing the range with you.

Prioritize hats that provide sufficient sun protection while allowing unrestricted movement and clear visibility of targets.

2. Sunglasses

First and foremost, you want to ensure that your sunglasses provide adequate protection against the sun’s glare.

The last thing you want is to be squinting and straining your eyes while trying to focus on hitting the bullseye.

Look for sunglasses with polarized lenses that help reduce glare and provide enhanced clarity.

Another important consideration is the fit of your sunglasses. You’ll want a pair that stays securely in place while you’re drawing back your bowstring and releasing your arrow.

Look for sunglasses with features like rubberized nose pads or temple grips to ensure a snug and comfortable fit.

You don’t want them slipping off or sliding down your face in the middle of an intense shot.

Additionally, it’s worth considering the lens colour of your sunglasses. While personal preference plays a role here, certain lens colours can enhance contrast and improve visibility on the archery range.

Amber or brown lenses are popular choices as they can help sharpen target definition and make it easier to spot arrows in flight.

However, different lighting conditions may call for different lens colours, so it’s a good idea to have a few options in your archery gear arsenal.

Experiment with different styles and brands until you find one that suits both your personal style and shooting needs on the range or field.

3. Sunscreen

When it comes to spending time at the archery range, protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. should be an essential part of your archery gear and outfit.

Whether you are shooting at an outdoor range or practising in a sunny field, applying sunscreen is vital for both comfort and long-term skin health.

The intense focus required in archery often means spending extended periods outdoors, exposing your skin to the sun.

To shield yourself from harmful UV radiation, opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor).

Look for a water-resistant formula so that it stays effective even if you start to sweat during practice sessions or competitions.

When applying sunscreen before heading to the archery range, ensure that you cover all exposed areas of your skin thoroughly.

Pay extra attention to commonly overlooked spots like the back of your neck, ears, and hands.

Remember to reapply every two hours or more frequently if you perspire heavily or come into contact with water.

Since sunscreen can sometimes leave residue on your hands that might interfere with grip and control, consider using a non-greasy or quick-drying formula specifically designed for sports activities.

Taking care of your skin while enjoying archery ensures you can focus on honing your skills without worrying about potential sunburns or long-term damage.

Things Not to Wear at the Archery Range

1. Open-toed Shoes (or heels)

When it comes to selecting what to wear for archery, it may seem obvious, but wearing open-toed shoes or heels at the archery range is a big no-no.

The last thing you want is to accidentally drop an arrow on your foot or injure yourself while trying to maintain your balance during a shot.

Plus, open-toed shoes provide little protection from potential hazards on the ground like rocks, twigs, or even rogue arrows that might have missed their targets.

Instead, opt for closed-toe shoes that offer good support and stability.

So put aside those flip-flops or elegant heels for another occasion and focus on finding comfortable closed-toe shoes that provide the necessary support and protection for a successful day of shooting arrows at targets!

2. Loose Clothing

One important aspect to consider when choosing what to wear for archery is avoiding loose clothing.

While loose-fitting clothing may be comfortable, it can actually pose a risk at the archery range.

Loose sleeves, baggy pants, or flowing skirts can easily get caught in the bowstring or interfere with your shot.

Not only can this lead to a missed target, but it can also be dangerous if the string gets tangled during release.

To ensure a safe and successful archery session, opt for clothing that fits snugly and doesn’t have any excess fabric.

Consider wearing fitted shirts or tops that allow you to move freely without any hindrance.

By selecting clothing items that are more form-fitting, you’ll minimize the chance of any unwanted distractions or accidents during your time at the shooting range.

3. Jewellery, Watches, or Bracelets

When it comes to jewellery, watches, or bracelets, the general rule of thumb at the archery range is less is more.

While sporting these accessories may add a touch of personal style and flair to your overall look, they can potentially interfere with your shooting accuracy and safety.

Moreover, watches with loose straps or large faces can get caught in the bowstring or other parts of the equipment, posing a risk not only to yourself but also to those around you.

To ensure a smooth and uninterrupted shooting experience, it’s best to leave these items at home or securely store them in your bag before heading out to the archery range.

The primary goal is to maintain proper form and technique without any hindrances. Remember that archery demands concentration and precision; even the smallest distraction caused by jewellery can throw off your aim significantly.

While it may be tempting to showcase your style through accessories during practice sessions at the target range, prioritizing safety and efficiency should always take precedence over fashion choices in this particular setting.

By opting for simplicity when it comes to jewellery, watches, or bracelets while engaging in this ancient art form, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in honing your skills without any external hindrances – allowing you to hit those targets with unparalleled accuracy.

4. Unkept and Long Hair

Picture this: you’re all geared up in your archery outfit, ready to take aim at the bullseye. As you draw back your bowstring, suddenly your long locks get tangled in the string or obstruct your line of sight.

Not only is this frustrating, but it also poses a potential hazard. To avoid such mishaps and maximize your shooting experience, it’s essential to manage your hair appropriately when stepping onto the archery range.

For individuals with long hair, tying it back in a secure ponytail or braid is highly recommended.

This ensures that your hair stays out of the way and doesn’t interfere with your shot or equipment.

Additionally, using accessories like headbands or hairpins can help keep any loose strands in place.

Apart from preventing distractions during shooting, managing your hair also serves a practical purpose – maintaining safety on the range.

Archery involves swift movements and precise actions, so having unkept or flowing locks may inadvertently get caught in equipment such as bowstrings or release aids, leading to accidents or damage to both yourself and others around you.

By taking a few moments to secure your hair properly before entering the shooting area, you not only enhance functionality but also contribute to a safer environment for everyone involved.

FAQs

Can you wear leggings to archery?

Yes, you can wear leggings to archery. They allow free movement and won’t get caught in the bowstring.

Can you wear a skirt to archery?

You can wear a skirt to archery, but it’s less common due to the risk of interfering with the bowstring.

Do you need shoes for archery?

Yes, you need shoes for archery. Closed-toe, sturdy shoes are typically recommended for safety.

What do you wear to an archery competition?

At an archery competition, you should wear comfortable, close-fitting clothing that won’t interfere with your bow. Also, follow any dress code set by the competition’s rules.

Conclusion

Remember to prioritize functionality over fashion when selecting what to wear for archery. Opt for breathable and flexible materials that allow you to move freely while providing adequate protection.

Taking these factors into consideration will not only contribute to an enjoyable shooting experience but also ensure that you are fully prepared and equipped for success on the target range.

So go ahead, dress comfortably yet purposefully in your shooting attire, focus on perfecting your form and technique with confidence, hit those bullseyes consistently, and enjoy every moment of your archery journey!