What to Wear to a Shooting Range: Complete Practical Guide

Step onto a firing line in the wrong outfit, and you learn quickly. Hot brass tucked into a sandal, a hoodie bunching under earmuffs, sunglasses fogging to white-out indoors—these are the kinds of discomforts that distract your mind from safety and skill. Dress right, and the range becomes a place where attention stays on fundamentals: sight picture, trigger press, stable body mechanics. That’s the goal of this guide—give you what works, what to avoid, and why, based on real range time with new shooters, seasoned competitors, and everyone in between.

This isn’t just about a “gun range dress code.” It’s a practical, detailed walkthrough of shooting range attire for indoor and outdoor bays, in summer heat and winter wind, for women and men, first-timers and frequent visitors. We’ll talk materials, fit, footwear, eye and ear protection (including ANSI Z87.1 and NRR), lead safety, and those small add-ons—like a brimmed hat or a simple neck gaiter—that keep the day frustration-free. If you came here wondering exactly what to wear to a shooting range and what not to wear, you’ll leave confident.

The Core Principles of Shooting Range Attire

Everything you wear at a shooting range should serve three purposes: protect, enable, and respect.

Protect: Keep you safe from hot brass, recoil bite, slips, and the environment. Think eye and ear protection, closed-toe shoes, non-flammable fabrics, and skin coverage where it counts.
Enable: Let you move, grip, kneel, or adjust your stance without snagging or fumbling. Good pockets, a sturdy belt, and clothing that breathes.
Respect: Follow range rules and etiquette. Dress codes exist because hot cases fly unpredictably, and smooth operations rely on predictable safety.

If you keep those three ideas in mind, choices get simple.

Range Rules and Dress Code Basics

Every well-run range publishes rules. Most “gun range clothing rules” include:

Eye and ear protection required on the firing line (often in the building).
Closed-toe footwear.
No tank tops, low-cut or sleeveless tops.
No open-toe shoes, sandals, or flip-flops.
Avoid loose scarves, dangling jewelry, and hoods.
Follow staff instructions and the safety brief.

Rules vary. Before you go, search “[city] shooting range dress code.” Ranges that cater to tourists (think Las Vegas or Miami) usually provide loaner eye/ear protection but still expect you to arrive with safe footwear and sensible tops. If the site doesn’t spell it out, call the counter; you’ll get a friendlier answer than you expect.

Indoor vs Outdoor: What Changes and Why

Indoor shooting range: what to wear

Indoors, your main enemies are noise, lead dust, brass bounce, and ventilation drafts. You’ll be standing on concrete with slick patches of unburned powder. You’ll likely be closer to adjacent shooters. Noise is sharper. Brass can ricochet off partitions. Wear:

High-collar top and brimmed hat. Closed collar reduces the chance of brass finding your chest; the hat’s brim deflects overhead debris.
ANSI Z87.1-rated eye protection. Clear or light-tint lenses are best inside.
Higher-NRR hearing protection. Double up (plugs under muffs) for comfort.
Closed-toe shoes with rubber soles. Traction matters on concrete.
Long pants or sturdy leggings. Knee-friendly if you’re working positions.
Gloves optional. Thin shooting gloves help if you’re sensitive to heat or sharps, but they’re not required.

Outdoor shooting range: what to wear

Outdoors, the environment drives decisions: sun, wind, dust, mud, heat, or cold. Brass has more space to fly and land in odd places. The good news: noise dissipates more than indoors.

Sun-oriented kit. Brimmed cap, sunglasses (still ANSI-rated), UPF shirts.
Layers for temperature swings. Mornings can be cool, mid-day hot, late afternoons breezy.
Boots or grippy hiking shoes. Uneven ground, gravel, and dust reward traction and ankle support.
Eye protection with interchangeable lenses. Swap from smoke to amber as light changes.
Wind and dust management. A light neck gaiter or buff, and anti-fog wipes.

What Not to Wear to a Shooting Range

Open-toe shoes, sandals, slides, high heels. Hot brass and slick floors are a bad mix.
Low-cut shirts, tank tops, crop tops. Hot casings will find their way in, quickly.
Deep V-neck or loose, drapey collars. Same problem, more easily.
Dangling jewelry, scarves, big hoop earrings. Snag hazards plus distraction.
Hoodies with the hood up, or thick beanies under earmuffs. They break your ear seal.
See-through leggings or thin synthetics that melt with heat. Choose denser fabrics.
Short shorts or ultra-light athletic shorts if you’ll be drawing from a holster or kneeling. Skin protection matters.

Eye Protection: ANSI Z87.1 and Fog-Free Vision

If you remember one standard today, make it this: ANSI Z87.1. That mark on your lenses means the eyewear meets an impact and protective standard designed for industrial hazards—exactly the kind shooting ranges present. Everyday fashion sunglasses may look good, but they’re not designed for a stray piece of jacket, a steel splatter, or an unpredictable ejection. Put simply: shooting range safety glasses must be ANSI Z87.1 (or Z87+) rated.

A quick comparison that saves confusion:

Eyewear for Range Use

Type of Eyewear	Key Features	Suitability for Shooting
Dedicated safety glasses (ANSI Z87.1)	Built for impact, side shields or wrap design, clear/amber/smoke options, anti-fog options available.	Best for indoor and outdoor shooting.
Ballistic-rated shooting glasses (often ANSI Z87+)	Even higher impact resistance, designed for shooters; some offer prescription inserts.	Ideal for frequent shooters.
Fashion sunglasses (no ANSI mark)	Unknown impact resistance, often no side coverage, not reliable against fragments.	Avoid on the firing line unless they carry an ANSI Z87 marking.

If you wear prescription lenses, consider prescription safety glasses or an over-the-glasses (OTG) ANSI-rated frame. Some ranges sell OTG options. It’s worth it. Those of us who’ve had a steel splinter ping off a lens never forget the sound or the relief.

Fog control is more than comfort; it’s safety. Indoors, humidity and temperature differences make lenses cloud up when you pause or breathe heavily. Solutions that work:

Anti-fog coatings or wipes designed for safety glasses. Keep a small wipe in your pocket.
Ventilation and fit. Frames with subtle vents reduce trapped moisture.
Avoid pressing a face mask tight against the nose bridge inside; divert breath downward if you must wear one.
Keep your eyewear and sweatband clean. Oils invite fog.

Hearing Protection: NRR and Doubling Up

Ranges are loud enough to damage hearing. The solution is simple math: NRR (Noise Reduction Rating) and smart fit. Indoors, you’ll almost always want to double up—foam earplugs under electronic earmuffs—so you get high protection plus awareness of commands.

What’s a good NRR for indoor shooting? Aim for earmuffs with an NRR in the high 20s or low 30s, and combine with foam plugs (usually rated around NRR 30) for real-world protection. The combined effect doesn’t add linearly, but doubling up markedly reduces the sharp impulse that fatigues you.

Guidelines:

Foam earplugs properly inserted transform your experience. Roll tight, pull the ear up and back, insert deeply, hold for the foam to expand.
Electronic muffs let you hear voices and range commands while suppressing gunfire. Wear them over the plugs.
Avoid wearing the band of your earmuffs over a thick hood or beanie; it breaks the seal and slashes protection.

Basic NRR guidance by environment:

Indoor pistol bays: Double up—foam plugs plus electronic muffs, target combined high protection.
Indoor carbine or rifle indoors: Double up essential.
Outdoor pistol: Good muffs alone can suffice; doubling up is still nice during long sessions.
Outdoor rifle with brakes: Double up is strongly recommended.

Eye vs Ear quick pairing to keep in mind:

Indoors: ANSI Z87.1 clear lenses, plugs + electronic muffs.
Outdoors bright sun: ANSI Z87-rated tinted or photochromic lenses, muffs or plugs depending on neighbors and caliber.

Shoes: Traction, Stability, and Closed Toes

“Can you wear sandals to a gun range?” No. Not as a suggestion and not as a dare. Ranges ban them because hot brass falls and bounces in wildly unpredictable arcs, and because many floors are slick with dust or powder. You want a rubber sole with good traction, closed toes, and a stable platform.

What works well:

Athletic sneakers with grippy soles. Good for indoor lanes and most outdoor pistol bays.
Light hikers or range boots. Better on gravel and uneven ground, with ankle support.
Flat, stable training shoes for competitive practice. Stability helps your stance and transitions.
Avoid: open-toe footwear, high heels, dress shoes with slick leather soles, and thin slip-ons.

A simple comparison of common options:

Footwear at the Range

Footwear Type	Pros	Cons
Running/athletic sneakers	Comfortable, good grip on concrete, breathable	Less support on rocky or muddy ground.
Light hiking shoes/boots	Great traction, ankle support, durable	A bit heavier and warmer.
Flat training shoes (cross-trainers)	Stable base for stance, good indoors	Not ideal on loose gravel.
Work boots with composite toe	Durable and protective	Can be stiff for long range days if unbroken.

Clothing: Tops, Bottoms, and Fabrics That Make Sense

High neck vs V-neck for shooting

There’s a reason “why no V-neck at shooting range” is a common question. Brass doesn’t care about your fashion. It finds gaps. Wear crew necks, mock necks, zip-neck layers, or button-ups that close. If a top has a lower neckline, add a light scarf or neck gaiter when you’re on the line.

Long sleeves vs short sleeves

Long sleeves offer more protection against hot brass and sun, but you don’t need to roast. In summer, a breathable long-sleeve UPF shirt is ideal outdoors. Indoors, short sleeves are fine if the collar is high. For drills that place your support arm near a hot barrel, long sleeves spare your forearm.

Cotton vs synthetic for shooting range

Materials matter both for comfort and for safety around ejected brass. Thick cotton handles brief contact with hot casings better than a thin polyester that can melt. But cotton soaks sweat. A solution: blends or technical fabrics that are denser, not flimsy, and ideally treated for moisture management. Merino blends work extremely well across seasons.

Fabric notes for the range:

Cotton: Comfortable, non-melting, but heavier when wet. Good as an outer layer indoors; supplement with technical underlayers in heat.
Polyester/nylon technical shirts: Manage sweat and dry fast; choose denser weaves for better brass resistance. Avoid ultra-thin, clingy gym tees.
Merino wool blends: Breathable, temperature-regulating, and odor-resistant. Excellent base and mid-layers.
Denims and canvas: Durable for pants; resist abrasion when kneeling or using barricades.

Bottoms: tactical pants vs jeans vs leggings

Jeans: Rugged and familiar. Look for some stretch for mobility. Real belt loops for a stiff belt.
Cargo or “tactical” pants: Purpose-built pockets, gusseted crotch, kneepad compatibility, durable. Great for outdoor and positional shooting.
Leggings: Yes, you can wear leggings to a shooting range when the fabric is dense and not see-through, and when you’re not doing holster work. Pair with a longer top and ensure they won’t snag. Compression styles with thicker knit are better. For holster practice, you’ll want a belt—most leggings don’t provide that.

Pockets and belts

Bring pockets. You’ll be moving magazines, markers, a multitool, and a shot timer. A stiff belt (EDC or gun belt) is a quiet hero; it keeps a holster, mag pouches, or even a dump pouch from wandering. Even if you’re renting a lane and not drawing from a holster, a decent belt keeps your pants stable once you load pockets with ammo or steel magazines.

Hats and hair management

A brimmed cap matters. It deflects overhead brass and shields your eyes from glare. For long hair, tie it back in a ponytail or bun and tuck it under the cap; keep it clear of your eye and ear protection seals. Avoid high buns that lift the headband of your muffs.

Gloves for shooting

Optional, but thin gloves with good trigger feel can help when policing brass, setting steel, or shooting in the cold. Pick gloves designed for shooting or light work—dexterous fingertips, no bulky seams.

Women-Specific Guidance: Practical Choices That Solve Real Range Problems

Women’s shooting range outfit decisions deserve more than the usual “don’t wear a low-cut top.” Hot brass management, hair and hat fit, pocket realities, and support all matter.

Tops and necklines

Crew necks, mock necks, or quarter-zips keep brass out of your collarbone area.
A light neck gaiter is a simple insurance policy for indoor lanes where brass bounces.
Sports bras should be supportive and smooth. Avoid spaghetti straps under a loose top that can catch brass. Be mindful that underwires can feel uncomfortable when you shoulder a rifle, depending on fit.

Leggings and pants

Dense, non-sheer leggings are fine for a casual indoor lane session, especially when not drawing from a holster. For dynamic drills or outdoor courses, pick pants with belt loops and pockets.
If you prefer leggings, consider a belt-compatible athletic waistband or an over-belt designed for training days. Otherwise, use a range bag or pocketed top for carrying essentials.

Hair, jewelry, and makeup

Hair: low ponytail or bun, tucked under a cap. Keep it from sliding under your ear cups.
Jewelry: avoid long necklaces, dangling earrings, and stacked bracelets that clack or snag. Simple studs are fine.
Makeup: indoor ranges can be warm; sweat-resistant sunscreen outdoors; skip oily products that fog glasses.

Pregnancy and nursing

Given lead exposure and the impulse noise environment, most medical guidance and occupational safety bodies advise avoiding shooting during pregnancy, especially indoors. If you’re nursing and choose to shoot, handle lead with care: use D-Lead wipes or soap before touching your child or pumping equipment and wash range clothes separately. Consult your healthcare provider and consider spectating rather than shooting until you’re comfortable with the risk.

Men-Specific Notes: Belts, Fit, and Practical Comfort

Men’s shooting range attire is straightforward but benefits from detail:

Belts: a stiff EDC/gun belt supports holsters and magazine carriers; even if you’re not carrying, it stabilizes pants loaded with gear.
Shirts: crew neck tees or collared performance polos keep brass off and breathe well. Tuck in if you’re drawing from a holster.
Pants: jeans with some stretch or cargo-style pants with gussets let you kneel without cutting circulation. Pockets for magazines matter.
Facial hair: a full beard can interfere with some respirators but not with ear pro; focus on muff seal against hair at the jawline.

Beginners: First-Time Shooting Range Attire That Works

If it’s your first time at a gun range, what to wear is simple:

Closed-toe shoes with rubber soles.
High-collar shirt, short or long sleeves.
Long pants or sturdy leggings.
Brimmed cap.
Eye and ear protection (you can usually rent or borrow, but bringing your own is more comfortable).
Minimal jewelry, hair tied back.

And bring curiosity. Ask how to post your target, how to handle magazines, and how they want you to stage your case. Range staff appreciate good questions more than guesswork.

Indoor vs Outdoor Clothing Details: A Closer Look

The same shooter will dress differently for two reasons: environment and tempo. Indoors, the environment is controlled but intense; outdoors, the environment is variable but the noise is easier on your head.

Indoor priorities

Fog-free Z87.1 eyewear.
Higher NRR hearing, often doubled up.
Slick-free shoes for concrete.
Light layers you won’t overheat in.
Lead management: wipes or soap, don’t touch your face, no food in the bay.

Outdoor priorities

Sun and wind protection (UPF shirts, brimmed cap, buff).
Lenses you can adapt to changing light (amber for flat light, smoke for bright).
Weather-resilient shoes or boots, possibly waterproof.
Layers for temperature swings across the day.
Gloves for setting steel, pounding target stands, or picking up brass.

Season and Climate: Dressing for Summer Heat, Winter Cold, Rain, and Desert Sun

What to wear to a shooting range in summer

Lightweight, long-sleeve UPF shirt or a high-collar short sleeve with a neck gaiter for brass control.
Breathable pants or rugged shorts where allowed; many ranges permit shorts, but long pants offer better protection against brass and kneeling surfaces. If you opt for shorts, choose knee-length and sturdy fabric.
Moisture-wicking base layers to prevent chafing.
Tinted ANSI-rated eyewear; a hat that breathes (mesh back is fine outdoors).
Hydration system or water bottle; some belts accommodate a small bottle pouch.

Hot weather shooting clothes tips

Lighter colors reflect heat.
Avoid clingy, ultrathin synthetics that can melt if they meet hot metal.
Consider merino-blend tees for odor control and comfort.

Winter shooting range clothing

Base layer: moisture-wicking, not cotton. Merino is excellent.
Mid-layer: fleece or light insulated jacket.
Outer layer: windproof softshell or hardshell, smooth sleeves that won’t snag your draw.
Gloves: thin trigger-finger gloves; keep a warmer pair for breaks.
Footwear: insulated boots if you’ll stand on cold ground; wool socks.
Plan how layers interact with your belt and holster. You may need to size up the outer layer or use an over-belt.

Rainy day shooting range outfit

Waterproof shell with a smooth front (avoid large, loose storm flaps that snag).
Quick-dry pants; avoid heavy denim that stays wet.
Waterproof or water-resistant footwear with defined tread.
Pack a small towel in your range bag to keep hands and gear dry.

Desert range clothing sun protection

UPF long sleeves, wide brim or billed cap with a neck flap or buff.
High-hydration plan; light merino base that stays comfortable in heat.
Dust management: clear and amber lenses; keep a microfiber cloth for lenses.

Lead Safety and Hygiene: Clothing Considerations

Indoor ranges especially present lead hazards from primers and bullet dust. Your clothing choices and aftercare matter.

Bring D-Lead wipes or soap and clean your hands and face before eating or drinking. NIOSH and CDC stress handwashing after handling firearms and ammunition.
Keep range clothes separate from baby gear and food prep areas. Launder range clothes separately if you shoot frequently.
Avoid touching your face on the line; use a clean cloth if sweat rolls.

Contacts vs glasses at a shooting range

Contacts are fine, but eye protection is still mandatory. Dry air indoors can bother contact wearers; bring drops.
Prescription shooting glasses or OTG safety glasses solve both vision and protection; fog management is similar.

Hearing Protection Over Hats and Hoodies: Fit Tricks

Can you wear ear muffs over a hat or hoodie? You can, but the seal is the deal. Thin caps are okay; thick hoods and knit beanies break the seal. Solutions:

Wear the hood down on the line.
Choose a low-profile cap with a thin crown.
If you must wear a hooded garment for weather, put muffs on first and pull the hood over lightly, making sure the cups remain sealed.

Holster-Friendly Clothing for Practice

If your range permits holster work (some indoor ranges do not), your outfit needs to support it. That means:

A stiff EDC/gun belt sized to your pants and gear.
A shirt that clears easily without bunching. Hem length that you can reliably sweep out of the way.
Pants with a comfortable rise; belts sit differently with appendix carry (AIWB) versus strong-side outside-the-waistband (OWB).
Avoid long, drawstring hoodies or oversized jackets that drape into the holster. Zippered outer layers are easier to manage.

Tourist Ranges and Date Nights: Comfort Without Looking Tactical

Tourist shooting range what to wear

Closed-toe shoes, high-collar shirt, jeans or casual pants, brimmed hat.
Rented eye/ear pro is common; bring your own if you’re particular about fit and cleanliness.
Keep it simple. A calm, comfortable outfit beats tactical cosplay every time.

What to wear to a gun range on a date

Functional meets presentable: a dark crew-neck tee, clean jeans with a proper belt, and good sneakers. For women, a fitted high-collar top and sturdy pants or leggings with a long shirt work well. Skip the jangly accessories.

Shooting Range Outfit Ideas for Beginners

Keep it minimal and safe:

Top: crew-neck tee or polo; add a light overshirt if you want more coverage.
Bottom: jeans or cargo pants; leggings if thick and you’re not doing holster work.
Shoes: athletic sneakers or light hikers.
Hat: baseball-style brimmed cap.
Eye/Ear: ANSI Z87.1 safety glasses, electronic muffs plus foam plugs for indoor.
Add a small microfiber towel and hand wipes.

Women’s vs Men’s Attire Summary

These are more overlap than difference. The fit and support details change, but the principles are the same: high collar, closed toes, good belt, pockets for tools, safe jewelry and hair choices, and protection from brass and environment. Both benefit from breathable, brass-resistant fabrics and an understanding of how ear pro and eyewear fit with hats, hair, and layers.

Common Questions Answered

Why can’t you wear sandals to a gun range?
Hot brass and slippery surfaces. Casings fall into sandals and stick to skin, causing burns and reflexive movement with a loaded firearm—an obvious hazard. Most ranges ban open-toe footwear for that reason.

Can you wear shorts to a shooting range?
Usually yes, especially outdoors, but long pants protect better against brass, sun, and contact with rough surfaces when kneeling or moving. If you choose shorts, pick knee-length, sturdier fabrics.

Can you wear leggings to a shooting range?
Yes, with caveats. Choose dense, non-sheer leggings. Pair with a long top. For holster work or dynamic practice, pants with belt loops are better. Be mindful of heat and metal contact.

Can you wear hoodies to a shooting range?
A hoodie is fine as a layer, but avoid pulling the hood up under earmuffs; it breaks the seal. Make sure drawstrings don’t dangle near the muzzle when you present from a holster.

Do I need long sleeves at the shooting range?
Not required, but they help. Long sleeves reduce brass burns and sun exposure. Plenty of shooters use short sleeves with a high collar and do just fine; consider the environment and your comfort.

What kind of hat is best for the shooting range?
A brimmed cap with a firm bill. Mesh back is fine. In heavy sun, a wider-brimmed hat works outdoors, but ensure your earmuffs seal properly around it.

What is ANSI Z87.1 and do my glasses need it?
It’s a widely recognized standard for protective eyewear impact resistance. Range eyewear should be ANSI Z87.1 rated—or Z87+—for safety. Check the markings on the frame or lens.

What is a good NRR for indoor shooting?
Choose high-NRR earmuffs and double up with foam plugs for indoor ranges. Proper fit matters as much as the printed rating.

Can you wear ear muffs over a hat or hoodie?
Yes over a thin cap; avoid thick materials that break the ear seal. Keep hoods down on the line or put them lightly over muffs after a good seal is set.

What fabrics are best to prevent hot brass burns?
Denser weaves of cotton, cotton blends, merino, or robust technical fabrics. Avoid ultra-thin synthetics that can melt if a casing lodges briefly.

What should women avoid wearing to a shooting range?
Low-cut tops, open-back tops, thin or sheer leggings, dangling jewelry, and shoes with exposed toes. Manage hair and pick supportive bras that work with your shooting position.

What should I bring to a shooting range for the first time?
Eye and ear protection, brimmed cap, closed-toe shoes, high-collar shirt, pants with a belt, a small towel, and lead-removal wipes. A simple range bag with ammo, targets if needed, and water.

Range Bag Essentials: A Practical Add-On to What You Wear

Your clothing sets the stage, but a well-packed bag keeps you focused:

Eye protection (ANSI Z87.1) and spare lenses.
Ear protection: electronic muffs and foam plugs.
Hat, light gloves, and a neck gaiter.
D-Lead wipes or soap; hand sanitizer for general use.
Microfiber cloth and anti-fog wipes.
Water bottle and a small snack (eat away from the bay, wash hands first).
Tape, stapler, and markers for targets; small multi-tool.
Spare batteries for muffs or optics; small trash bag for spent wipes and tape.

A Simple, Printable Clothing and PPE Checklist

Wear:

High-collar top (crew neck or zip neck)
Long pants or sturdy leggings
Closed-toe shoes with rubber soles
Brimmed cap
Belt (stiff if using holsters or pouches)

Pack:

ANSI Z87.1 eye protection (clear for indoor, tinted options for outdoor)
Ear muffs (high NRR) + foam earplugs
D-Lead wipes or soap
Anti-fog wipe and microfiber cloth
Light gloves (optional)
Neck gaiter or scarf (optional; great indoors and in wind)
Weather layer (shell, fleece, or sun shirt as needed)
Water bottle

Lead and Noise Safety: Why This Guide Emphasizes PPE

Manual dexterity, vision, and hearing are your primary tools at a range. Protect them. The ANSI Z87.1 standard exists to guard your eyes from high-velocity debris. NRR exists because one session at a busy indoor range is enough to cause ringing that may not fade. Authoritative references:

ANSI Z87.1 outlines protective eyewear performance and testing. Look for Z87 markings on frames/lenses.
CDC/NIOSH provides guidance on lead exposure at ranges and the importance of handwashing and proper hygiene.
Range rule examples from reputable facilities reinforce the basics: eye/ear protection, closed-toe shoes, and sensible clothing choices.

Gun Range Etiquette That Touches Clothing

No food or drink on the line. Even if you brought a power bar, consume it in a designated area after washing hands.
Pick up your brass if the range allows, and don’t invade the next lane’s space to get it. Gloves help.
Keep bags and jackets out of walking lanes. Nobody needs to trip over your gear.
If a hot casing does find your collar, keep the muzzle downrange and finger off the trigger while you deal with it. Clothing reduces the chance of this, but controlling your reaction matters more.

Putting It All Together: Indoor vs Outdoor, Summer vs Winter “Uniforms”

An indoor “uniform” that just works

Clear, ANSI Z87.1-rated glasses with anti-fog wipes.
Foam earplugs plus electronic earmuffs.
Crew-neck tee or performance polo; optional light overshirt.
Jeans or cargo pants with a stiff belt.
Athletic sneakers with good grip.
Brimmed cap and a compact neck gaiter tucked in your pocket.

An outdoor “uniform” for variable days

ANSI Z87-rated glasses with interchangeable lenses.
Electronic earmuffs; foam plugs for rifles or busy lines.
UPF long-sleeve shirt or breathable tee with a neck gaiter.
Cargo pants or jeans with stretch.
Light hikers or boots with tread.
Cap; add a shell or fleece as needed.
Sunscreen and hydration.

Edge Cases: Specialty Matches, Training Courses, and Holster Days

Competition and training ramp up movement and time on your feet. Dress for agility and endurance:

Shoes: stable trainers or light hikers that let you sprint, brake, and pivot confidently.
Pants: gusseted, stretch, or athletic cut; knee-friendly for barricade work.
Shirt: high collar, breathable, tuckable for a clean draw.
Belt: two-layer competition or EDC belt that holds holster and pouches without sagging.
Gloves: thin gloves for stage setup and tear-down; most shooters remove gloves to shoot unless it’s cold.

Shooting Range Dress Code Examples and How to Interpret Them

You’ll see phrases like “no open-toe shoes,” “no low-cut shirts,” “eye/ear protection required in shooting area,” and “no exposed midriff.” Interpret conservatively. If you wouldn’t be confident doing a burpee in your outfit while keeping everything covered and protected from scuffs or heat, reconsider it. A dress code isn’t fashion police; it’s a safety net for the least-experienced shooter in the room.

Materials, Fit, and Comfort: Fine-Tuning for Long Days

Waistband comfort: if you’re wearing an inside-the-waistband holster during practice, a breathable, slightly wider belt distributes pressure better.
Shirt hem length: long enough to tuck if needed, short enough not to catch on gear. Quarter-zip tops are gold for temperature control.
Sleeve cuffs: snug cuffs stay out of the way and keep brass off your forearms; loose cuffs are easily managed with a light watch or wristband.
Sock choice: nothing ruins a day faster than blisters. Pick performance socks indoors and wool blends outdoors.

Final Thoughts: Dress for Skill, Not for Instagram

Shooting is a craft. Good clothing keeps your focus on learning and execution, not on a blister, a burning casing, or a fogged lens at the worst moment. “What to wear to a shooting range” is less about looking the part and more about simplifying your environment so you can be safe, effective, and respectful of those around you.

If you take nothing else with you:

Wear a high-collar top, closed-toe shoes with traction, and ANSI Z87.1 eye protection.
Choose hearing protection with adequate NRR and double up indoors.
Bring a brimmed cap, fit your gear so it doesn’t fight you, and leave the dangling jewelry at home.
Adjust for season and location, and consult your local gun range dress code before you go.

Everything after that is comfort and style. The fundamentals—protection, enablement, respect—do the heavy lifting. Show up dressed to shoot, and the line becomes a place where your attention stays where it belongs: on safe handling, steady sights, and honest improvement.