Friday 22 August 2014

What to Wear to Your First Shoot

Kit yourself out from head to toe and look like a seasoned pro on your first shoot. 

Ear Protection: Hearing protection is a must on shoots. Specialised Ear Defenders offer the best protection but may be uncomfortable on warm days, in which case disposable ear plugs are also suitable.

A Cap: A tweed flat cap is traditional but you can opt for a waxed cap or hat if you prefer. On informal shoots a baseball cap, in an appropriate, natural colour will protect your eyes from low sun.

Jacket: On cold or wet days a warm, waterproof jacket will provide protection against the elements. On warmer days, a light sports blazer will also look smart and help complete your outfit for a formal shoot. Numerous options exist for every budget and weather, from high end GoreTex jackets such as Musto's Whisper and Storm Jackets (Storm jacket coming soon), to packaway rain macs such as Musto's Fenland Packaway. A shooting jacket should allow for unrestricted movement with good stretch across the back and articulated sleeves.
Shop Mens Shooting Jackets / Shop Womens Shooting Jackets

Waistcoat: On warm days and on more informal shoots, a waistcoat can be worn as an outerlayer if you wish. On cold days it is worn beneath the jacket as an extra layer of insulation and on formal shoots it is a smart part of a traditional shooting outfit. Waistcoats are traditionally tweed, in green - brown shades. Again, ensure your waistcoat allows for freedom of movement with plenty of stretch across the back. On informal shoots a bodywarmer will be a suitable alternative.
Shop Mens Bodywarmers / Shop Womens Bodywarmers

Shirt: A green or brown check or tattersall shirt is traditional, however more flamboyant colours are becoming popular. Avoid wearing bright colours to a grouse shoot where the quarry may spot you too early. Shooting shirts should be longer in length than standard shirts to allow them to be tucked in securely and not ride up. Shop Mens Shirts / Shop Womens Shirts

Tie: A tie will be an essential part of your outfit on a formal shoot, but optional on informal shoots. On rainy days it will help to protect against rain droplets by securing the shirt collar close to the skin.

Gunslip: On formal or informal shoots you will need to carry your gun in a Gunslip. The gun should remain sheathed until you reach your peg and be put away again at the end of a drive.

Cartridge Bag: A small canvas or leather bag in which to carry your cartridges will be very useful.

Breeks or Trousers: At a formal shoot, tweed breeks would be expected. When buying, ensure that they are a little long. This way you can hitch them up and fold the loose material over your boots to form a waterproof seal. On informal shoots moleskin trousers are becoming increasing popular for their durability and water resistance. In foul weather you may prefer waterproof overtrousers. Shop Womens Breeks and Trousers / Shop Mens Breeks and Trousers

Shooting Socks: Shooting socks are worn knee high, meeting the hem of the breeks, with a garter to stop them slipping down. They are an important and iconic part of a shooting outfit and are where you can have some fun. There are a great variety of colours and patterns for you to choose from.

Boots: When spending long hours standing in the field in all weather you need sturdy, waterproof boots with a solid sole. Leather boots are extremely popular but good quality wellingtons are also acceptable, we recommend Le Chameau or Aigle. On informal shoots a good quality pair of walking boots could be worn.





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