Playing airsoft calls for specific tactical gear that both protects you and keeps you comfortable so you can move freely. Airsoft footwear is an essential part of the outfit and must be chosen with care. This article explains how to put your gear together.
What does a set of airsoft gear include?
As with every physical activity, airsoft requires a complete kit so you feel at ease and protected, both from your opponents and from the hazards of the terrain.
The uniform and replica weapons
The uniform is similar to military dress: it lets you stay hidden from your opponents and blend into the surroundings. It therefore consists of tactical pants and a military jacket or a T-shirt, which can be completed with a vest for carrying BBs. Firearm replicas should be chosen according to your role in the game: snipers and players who specialize in close-quarters engagements simply don't need the same type of replica. The terrain also has a major impact on the choice of weapon and gear in general, which is why it is important to seek advice from professionals to pick the right replica model.
Tactical gear
This category covers goggles, masks, gloves and one of the most important items of all: protective footwear. Each of these accessories is designed to protect a specific part of the player's body:
- Shooting goggles: mandatory safety equipment that must be chosen with care to avoid any serious eye injury.
- The mask: protects the rest of the face — mouth, teeth, cheeks and so on.
- Protective gloves: these must be high quality. The hands take a real beating from impacts, scratches from vegetation and more.
Tactical footwear
It is worth looking more closely at protective footwear: the boot model you choose must be of high quality. In fact, few fans of this sport give their footwear the attention it deserves. Yet your boots are exactly what will allow you to move efficiently across rough or difficult terrain. Quality footwear, such as the models in the Magnum range, can clearly give you the edge over your opponents.
What to look at when choosing your footwear
Footwear is essential in every sport, and especially in those that involve running and moving over unstable or hard-to-negotiate ground. During an airsoft game, your boots allow you to keep moving for a long time and without pain, while also protecting you from the terrain and from other players. There are therefore several factors to consider when choosing the right pair.
Protection
It is essential that your footwear be safe and heat-resistant so that it protects you from the elements. Above all, it must hold the foot firmly thanks to a good lacing system. After several hours of airsoft you will perspire, and it is important that your boots wick away moisture to keep the foot properly supported inside the boot. Finally, your (quality) pair of boots must provide good cushioning. They have to support your weight on steep ground, so the cushioning midsole needs to be nice and thick for greater comfort and safety, and to prevent injuries, particularly to the back and legs.
Ergonomics and comfort
The footwear usually recommended for an airsoft game is combat-boot-style footwear. Made of leather and high-cut, these boots combine all the features listed above to ensure protection. However, combat boots are often heavy to wear: during prolonged effort they can become a handicap. Bear in mind that more ergonomic models exist for an airsoft game, such as intervention boots.
We offer several types of leather and fabric intervention boots from Magnum, combining durability with everyday comfort. Thanks to the fabric panels, the boot is lighter and does not hinder more technical movements.
Magnum's Spider X Urban range is also an excellent choice. This breathable, very lightweight boot lets you stay comfortable while giving you the best possible protection, thanks to a non-slip sole that delivers optimal cushioning to keep you injury-free. Its light weight will keep you sharp and fast.
Why is it so important to be properly equipped when playing airsoft?
Airsoft is an activity in which two teams face off: players are equipped with firearm replicas loaded with plastic BBs. These are generally rifles for long-range shooting and pistols for close-quarters combat. Whatever the style of engagement, every shot can potentially cause injury. The replica is not the only important choice to make for a game: tactical gear matters just as much, because it makes airsoft safe to play — a sport that demands good physical condition to run, aim at your opponent and take the shot (ideally right on target!): hence the importance of choosing a good pair of boots.
Our other Airsoft Gear articles
- How do you choose the ideal pants for playing airsoft?
- What outfit is recommended for playing airsoft?
- Choosing the right airsoft outfit