What Should I Wear To Paintball First Time (Like Jeans Or Pants)

So, you’re ready to take on paintball for the first time. But before you can get out onto the field and start shooting, you must know what to wear. You want to move around easily while protecting yourself from incoming blasts of paint. So what should you wear to paintball for the first time? Here we’ll look at the basic attire you should have while playing paintball.

What to Wear for a First-Time Paintball Experience?

Paintball is a sport that requires participants to be both agile and protected. As a first-time player, you want to make sure that your attire is best suited for both of these needs. Jeans or pants are a popular choice among paintballers. Other options, such as shorts, sweatpants, and athletic pants, are also suitable. But wearing jeans allows for a few advantages that other styles may not provide.

Reasons to Wear Jeans or Pants When Playing Paintball

Here’s why wear paintball pants for your next game.

Protection from the impact of the projectiles

Paintballs are fired from markers at speeds of 250-300 feet per second. This means that when a paintball hits you, it can be quite painful. Wearing jeans or pants adds an extra layer of protection from the impact of these projectiles. Jeans and pants provide coverage for your entire lower body, which helps to reduce any potential pain that you may experience from being hit.

Insulation from weather conditions

Playing paintball in extreme weather conditions can be uncomfortable and even dangerous if you’re not properly prepared. Jeans or kids paintball pants provide extra insulation to help keep your body warm while playing in cold climates. They also protect against the sun’s rays if you’re playing in a hot environment, making them the ideal choice for paintball in any climate.

Comfortability while moving and shooting 

Paintball is an intense sport that requires agility and quick reflexes to be successful. Jeans or pants provide the perfect balance of flexibility and breathability to help keep you comfortable while moving and shooting. The lightweight fabric allows for unrestricted movement while also providing just enough insulation to keep your body warm when needed. You can also wear paintball pants when not playing.

The durability of fabric for long-term use 

Paintballs may not always break in contact with clothing. This can cause the fabric to become stained and damaged over time. Jeans and pants are made with a durable fabric that can withstand multiple shots without becoming too worn out or discolored. This makes them ideal for long-term paintball use, as they will last much longer than other clothing styles.

Reasons Not to Wear Jeans or Pants When Playing Paintball

While jeans or pants are a great option for most paintballers, there are some reasons why you may want to avoid them as well.

Restrictive movement due to fabric weight and structure 

Jeans and pants can be quite heavy compared to other types of fabric. This can make it difficult to move quickly and accurately while wearing them. The fabric is also much thicker than other types of clothing, which tends to restrict movement even further. If you’re looking for an option that will allow for maximum mobility, then jeans or pants may not be the best choice.

Inability to wear necessary protective gear over jeans or pants

Many paintball players wear additional protective gear, such as chest protectors and knee pads, underneath their clothes. Unfortunately, padded paintball pants are usually too thick to fit any of these items underneath them. This can leave you vulnerable to injury if you’re playing without the extra protection that these pieces provide.

Unsuitable for warmer weather conditions 

As mentioned, jeans and pants are great for keeping your body warm in cold climates. However, they can be quite uncomfortable in warmer weather conditions. The fabric tends to become heavy and sticky with sweat, which can make playing paintball even more difficult. If you’re expecting hot temperatures during your game, then you may want to opt for shorts or other styles of clothing that are more breathable.

Examples of Popular Paintball Pants 

If you decide to stick with pants for your paintballing outfit, then there are several popular styles that you can choose from.

Cargo pants

Cargo pants are a great option for paintball as they offer plenty of pockets to store extra ammo and other supplies. The fabric is usually lightweight and breathable, providing the perfect balance between comfort and mobility.

Combat-style trousers

Combat trousers are designed with durability in mind. The thick cotton fabric offers protection against paintballs while still allowing for unrestricted movement. Many of these trousers come with adjustable waist straps, making them easy to customize for the perfect fit.

Tactical pants

Tactical paintball pants are designed with functionality in mind. These camo paintball pants feature multiple pockets to store items and provide extra insulation when needed. The material is usually lightweight and breathable, making them great for all weather conditions.

BDU (battle dress uniform) pants

BDU pants are designed to be both durable and comfortable like Laysick paintball pants, and Dye paintball pants. The fabric is lightweight and breathable, allowing for maximum mobility. The adjustable waist straps make them easy to customize for the perfect fit. They’re also designed with multiple pockets to store items such as ammunition or tools.

Other Possible Clothing for Paintball

Along with the popular styles of pants mentioned above, there are other clothing options available for paintballers.

Long sleeves shirts

Long sleeve shirts are a great way to keep your arms and torso protected from paintball injuries. They’re also usually made of lightweight and breathable fabric, making them comfortable. For an added layer of protection, some players choose to wear a lightweight sweater or jacket over their shirts.

Sneakers or athletic shoes

Sneakers are ideal for paintball as they protect without restricting movement. Make sure to choose a pair that is light and breathable so that you can move quickly and accurately during the game. You can also opt for shoes specifically designed for paintballing, which are more durable and offer better traction.

Protective gear

In addition to clothing, it’s important to wear protective gear when playing paintball. Goggles are essential as they protect your eyes from the impact of the balls. Helmets are another great option, as they provide an extra layer of protection for your head. You can also wear gloves to improve grip on the gun and protect your hands from blisters.

Lightweight jackets and sweaters

Lightweight jackets and sweaters can help to keep you warm during cold weather games. They also provide an extra layer of protection from the balls. Make sure to choose breathable paintball pants and jerseys so that you don’t become too hot while playing.

No matter what clothing you choose, make sure to wear comfortable and breathable fabric that allows for unrestricted movement. Don’t forget to include protective gear such as goggles and helmets to ensure your safety during the game.

Conclusion

The best advice for what to wear to paintball for the first time is to dress comfortably and safely. Wear pants or jeans that fit snugly but won’t be too restrictive when running around on the field. 

It’s also important to wear long-sleeved tops and closed-toe shoes like sneakers or boots to protect your skin from the paintballs. Finally, don’t forget to layer up with a cap and light jacket so you’re prepared for whatever weather conditions come your way.

With the right clothing and equipment, you’ll be ready to make the most of your first paintball experience. Good luck!