Airsoft Gear and Equipment

These are the items every airsoft player should have for protection and comfort during gameplay.

1. Eye and Face Protection

• Why It’s Important: Eye protection is the most critical piece of safety gear in airsoft. BBs can travel at high speeds (sometimes over 400 FPS), and eye injuries are a serious risk.
• Types of Eye Protection:
  • Full-Seal Goggles: These provide complete protection around the eyes, ensuring no BBs can enter from the sides or top. Many airsoft fields, including Airsoft Experience, require full-seal goggles for all players.
  • Mesh Goggles: An alternative to plastic or polycarbonate goggles, mesh goggles are popular for preventing fogging. However, some fields may not allow them due to the risk of small BB fragments passing through.
  • Full Face Masks: Covering both the eyes and face, these masks offer maximum protection, particularly for beginners or close-quarters battles (CQB).
• Additional Protection: Adding a lower face mask or balaclava can help protect your teeth and face without sacrificing comfort.

Tip: Choose goggles or masks with anti-fog features for better visibility during extended games.

2. Clothing and Footwear

• Tactical Clothing: Wearing the right clothing can significantly improve your airsoft experience, especially in outdoor or woodland environments. Tactical clothing helps with camouflage, protection, and mobility.
  • BDUs (Battle Dress Uniforms): Durable, camouflaged clothing that is standard for many airsoft players. Available in various camo patterns to suit different terrains, BDUs provide both comfort and protection.
  • Long-Sleeved Shirts and Pants: Even if you’re not wearing a full tactical suit, opt for long-sleeved clothing to protect your skin from BB hits, which can cause welts or bruising.
  • Gloves: Tactical gloves protect your hands from hits and allow for a better grip on your gun. Fingerless gloves or gloves with reinforced knuckles are popular among players for added protection without sacrificing dexterity.
• Footwear:
  • Tactical Boots: Proper footwear is essential for maintaining stability and protecting your ankles during rough terrain play. Tactical boots provide extra support and grip, reducing the risk of injury.
  • Hiking Shoes or Sturdy Sneakers: For casual or indoor play, sturdy footwear with good grip is sufficient. Just ensure your shoes offer adequate ankle support to prevent twisting.

Tip: Our Airsoft Experience experts recommend camo patterns and footwear that suit your specific playing environment, whether it’s woodland, urban, or indoor.

3. Gloves and Headgear

• Gloves: As mentioned, gloves are important for hand protection. Choose gloves with padding but enough flexibility for pulling the trigger and handling gear.
• Headgear:
  • Hats or Helmets: Helmets can provide added protection and tactical advantage, especially in MilSim scenarios. Hats or caps help shield from sun or protect from overhead BB hits.
  • Shemaghs or Neck Gaiters: These provide extra protection for your neck and can double as face protection in a pinch.

Tip: Gloves with padded palms and ventilated designs are ideal for extended games to prevent fatigue and maintain comfort.

Optional gear is not always necessary but can enhance your performance, comfort, or the tactical aspect of your gameplay. Our Airsoft Experience experts recommend a wide variety of optional gear, allowing players to customize their loadout according to their needs.

1. Tactical Vests

• Why Use a Tactical Vest?: A tactical vest not only provides extra protection but also allows you to carry more equipment such as magazines, radios, or hydration packs.
• Types of Vests:
  • Plate Carriers: Provide maximum protection and carry capacity. Plate carriers often feature MOLLE (Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment) webbing, allowing you to attach additional pouches and gear.
  • Chest Rigs: Lightweight alternatives to full vests, designed for players who prioritize speed and mobility over heavy protection. Chest rigs can carry extra magazines and essentials while keeping you light on your feet.

Tip: Ensure your vest is fitted properly to avoid movement or discomfort. 

2. Knee and Elbow Pads

• Why Use Them?: If you’re playing in rugged outdoor environments or CQB scenarios, knee and elbow pads can protect your joints from scrapes and bruises when you drop to the ground or lean around corners.
• Features: Look for pads with adjustable straps and non-slip surfaces for better movement and stability.

Tip: Even if you don’t anticipate crawling or crouching much, knee pads can be a lifesaver when you least expect it. 

3. Communication Devices

• Radios: Team communication is key in airsoft, especially during tactical games. Radios (walkie-talkies) allow for real-time coordination with your team, enhancing strategy and teamwork.

Headsets: Combine your radio with a hands-free headset to keep your focus on the game while staying in contact with your teammates.

Taking care of your gear is just as important as using it on the field. Proper maintenance and storage can extend the life of your equipment and ensure it’s ready for action when you need it.

1. Gear Maintenance

• Clothing and Tactical Gear: Wash your tactical clothing regularly, but avoid using bleach or harsh detergents, which can weaken the fabric. Inspect your vests, gloves, and pads for wear and tear after every game.
• Goggles and Masks: Clean your goggles with anti-fog solutions and store them in a protective case to prevent scratches. Avoid leaving masks in hot environments (such as in your car) as it can warp the plastic or degrade the materials.
• Gloves and Footwear: Wipe down gloves and boots after every use, and store them in a cool, dry place to prevent odor or damage.

2. Gear Storage

• Store in a Dry Place: Humidity and moisture can degrade your gear. Store your equipment in a cool, dry area. Consider using airtight containers or gear bags for organized storage.
• Organize for Easy Access: When packing your gear for a game day, keep your essentials like goggles, BBs, and magazines in easily accessible compartments. 

Tip: Keep a spare set of essential items, such as goggles and gloves, to ensure you’re always prepared, especially during long games or tournaments.

At Airsoft Experience, we understand that having the right gear is crucial for enhancing both your performance and enjoyment, whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors. Our team can assist you in selecting the appropriate gear based on your play style and the type of airsoft scenarios you prefer. With a wide range of both essential and optional equipment, we make sure you’re fully prepared for any game, whether it’s your first time playing indoor or outdoor or you’re a seasoned player looking for an upgrade.