Whether you’ve been invited for the first time on the moors or you’ve been counting down the days to the Glorious Twelfth for years, knowing what to wear for grouse shooting is essential.
Grouse shooting is steeped in tradition and set against the breathtaking moors. The day is exhilarating, but the conditions can be challenging, and your clothing needs to be able to handle both. The right kit can make or break your day, think comfort, practicality, and respect for tradition. Our guide covers everything from the traditional peg attire for guns to practical kit needed for beaters and pickers-up so you’ll be ready to enjoy everything the grouse moors have to offer.
Women’s shooting attire
It is essential that your chosen pieces allow for freedom of movement, offer protection against the elements and respect the tradition of the sport.
Shooting jacket: Tweed is the classic choice, durable, weather-resistant and blends into the natural landscape.
Breeks or plus twos: In a complementary coloured tweed to your shooting jacket, or for less formal shoots many guns favour moleskin.
Shirt or roll neck: A collared shirt, or roll neck top. Often paired with a tie to add a touch of tradition.
Layering: Wool jumper and waistcoat or fleece layer will keep the chill away without restricting movement.
Footwear: Waterproof leather boots with good ankle support are a must for uneven moorland ground. Avoid wearing brand-new boots, break them in beforehand.
Essential accessories:
- Cap or baker boy hat
- Ear protection
- Shooting gloves
-
Shooting socks and garters
What to wear beating on the moorland
If you’re part of the beating line, you’ll be covering a lot more ground than the guns. Walking through the heater, bracken and sometimes boggy ground can be challenging so your clothing needs to be rugged, comfortable and ready for the elements.
Waterproof jacket and waterproof trousers: Breathable materials will help avoid overheating, touch fabrics will help to withstand brambles and overgrowth.
Base layers: Thermal or moisture wicking tops to help regulate body temperature.
Sturdy boots: Waterproof leather boots with good ankle support are a must for uneven moorland ground. Avoid wearing brand-new boots, break them in beforehand.
Essential accessories:
What to wear picking-up on the moorland
Pickers-up will work their dogs to retrieve shot game. Like beaters, you’ll be moving across varied terrain, but you’ll also need clothing that’s comfortable for waiting in one spot for extended periods.
Waterproof outerwear: Long coat is favourable. Tough, flexible trousers, ideally with reinforced knees for comfort when bending or kneeling.
Layering system: Base layer, mid layer and an outer shell allowing you to adapt to changing conditions.
Essential accessories:
- Cap, flat cap or baker boy hat
- Waterproof gloves
- Waterproof socks
- Whistle
- Game bag
