Essential Outdoor Gear for Airsoft Enthusiasts

If you're new to airsoft, it's important to focus on the basics before diving into the more specialized components of the game. This article will guide you on what gear you need to start playing, and why certain items are crucial for your safety and comfort.

Getting Started: Recommended Gear for New Players

Boots: Invest in good quality, supportive boots. Ankle injuries can end your fun for a long time, so comfort and support are paramount. Eye Protection: Safety is key in airsoft. Get eye protection that is airsoft-rated, either a pair of ballistic glasses or a paintball mask. At least cover your face with a snood or shemagh to protect your skin from paint.

Protecting Your Eyes and Face

Protecting your eyes and face is the most crucial aspect of airsoft gear. While it's possible to do without full protection, it is strongly recommended. Here's why:

Eye Protection: A good pair of airsoft-rated goggles can prevent paint pellets from damaging your eyes. Prices range from ￡30-60 for a set of airsoft-rated goggles. If you have a budget, consider investing in properly ballistic-rated goggles for enhanced protection. Face Protection: Some airsoft sites, especially those with CQB (Close Quarters Battle) environments, require full face protection like a hard or wiremesh mask. Woodland sites may allow you to use well-fitting ballistic glasses, but combine them with a snood or shemagh to shield your face and neck from paint splashes.

No matter what you choose, don't skimp on your eyes. Your sight is invaluable, and keeping both eyes intact is preferable.

Basic Clothing and Accessories

In addition to eye and face protection, you'll need some basic clothing and accessories to stay comfortable and safe during your airsoft games.

Shirt and Pants: Wear full-body cover. A basic pair of long-sleeve shirts and pants is a good start. Goggles: Full seal goggles or a mesh mask offer better protection than open mesh goggles. Hat: Protect your head with a boonie hat, patrol cap, or ball cap. For a more visible target, use a bright red or orange hat to stand out. Gloves: Comfortable gloves with knuckle protection are essential. Knuckle shots can be quite painful. Knee Pads: Good for protecting your knees, especially if you frequently crawl or move around on the ground. Water Bottle and Cup: Stay hydrated with a basic plastic canteen or Camelbak. Dehydration can affect your performance. Uniform: Start with drab clothes, such as surplus BDU (Battle Dress Uniform) or your preferred camo uniform if you have the budget. Load-bearing gear can be an old belt or a complete CIRAS (Combat, Individual, Reconnaisance and Assessment System) rig. AEG Battery and Magazines: Complete your setup with your AEG (Airsoft Electric Gun) battery and magazines for your chosen airsoft rifle.

Enhance Your Gear with Accessories

Once you have the basics, consider adding more accessories to enhance your game:

Helmets: Whether it's a tactical helmet or a civilian version, adding a helmet can increase your safety and comfort. Lights and Lasers: For an extra edge, add lights and lasers to your setup. These can be essential for night-time games or special ops scenarios.

Remember, as a new player, the most important investment is in your boot and eye/face protection. Once you find a style of rifle that suits you, you can focus on enhancing your gear with additional accessories. Happy gaming!