What To Wear For Clay Pigeon Shooting

Dressing for clay pigeon shooting (or clay target shooting) is very different to a formal day’s shooting, so you can leave the tweeds at home. Whilst clay pigeon shooting, it’s important to wear clothing that will allow you to move freely without restriction, but nothing too baggy otherwise your gun might slip out of position.

For a first outing to a clay ground, perhaps for a ‘have-a-go day’ or introductory lesson, it’s acceptable to wear casual, comfortable clothes.

Our handy clothing guide will ensure you’re appropriately dressed, and know what to wear whilst clay pigeon shooting, whatever the weather. Layering is key because, even in summer months, the weather can be unpredictable. On cooler days for example, thermals are advisable or a fleece gilet for extra warmth.

You can wear a T-shirt but we recommend a classic country shooting shirt for all year-round wear or a stretchy polo shirt on a warmer day. Both should allow for ease of movement but not be too loose. Shooting shirts are usually designed with a shooting fit and are usefully cut to a longer length to avoid coming untucked when arms are raised.

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You can wear a smart pair of jeans but we recommend chinos or, if it’s a warm day, summer shorts. Again, you’ll want to avoid something too tight-fitting for ease of movement and, if you’re caught in a sudden downpour, jeans will take time to dry and feel particularly uncomfortable.

Come rain, or shine, be prepared with a lightweight, waterproof jacket or at least one which is windproof and showerproof. It should fit well, allowing you to move freely especially around the arms so it doesn’t impede your mount or swing. It should also have roomy cartridge pockets.

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If you’re shooting on the clay ground in winter, chances are it’s going to be muddy and potentially wet, so a pair of reliable walking boots are advisable. You’re also likely to be walking across uneven ground. In drier, warmer weather you can wear a robust pair of trainers or lighter boots.

There are several reasons for wearing a hat for clay pigeon shooting: for protection from stray pieces of broken clay, to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and to keep you protected from the elements. Opt for an adjustable baseball cap or flat cap.

Shooting glasses and hearing protection are a necessity. If you are going to be shooting clays on a regular basis it’s worth investing in custom fit ear plugs or your own ear defenders. Similarly, it might be worth purchasing your own shooting glasses to protect your eyes from broken clay pieces. If you normally wear glasses, you can shoot in these however prescription shooting glasses are also available.

If the weather’s cold, or you want to protect your hands from a hot shotgun barrel, a pair of well-fitting gloves are a good idea, as long as you can still grip the shotgun securely.

This guide should help you decide what to wear for clay pigeon shooting. If you need any further assistance choosing your kit for clay pigeon shooting or any other country sport, do get in touch with our friendly team at sales@alanpaine.co.uk.

Explore our complete clay shooting clothing collection to find everything you need to wear for clay pigeon shooting and all manner of country pursuits: