If you’re new to sporting clays, one of the most common questions is: “What should I wear?” The good news is that you don’t need expensive gear to get started. At Etowah Valley Sporting Clays, we welcome first-timers and seasoned shooters alike, and we’ve built this guide to help you feel comfortable and prepared.
1. Clothing: Dress for Comfort and Safety
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Tops: A t-shirt, polo, or breathable long-sleeve works well. In cooler weather, add a lightweight jacket or shooting vest with pockets for shells.
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Bottoms: Jeans, cargo pants, or durable shorts. Avoid anything overly tight or delicate, you’ll be outdoors and moving often.
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Shoes: Closed-toe shoes are required. Sneakers, hiking boots, or sturdy walking shoes are best since you’ll walk across gravel and grass.
2. Safety First: Eye and Ear Protection
Eye and ear protection are non-negotiable. Shooting glasses shield your eyes from clay fragments and dust, while earmuffs or earplugs protect your hearing. If you don’t own any, EVSC’s Pro Shop has options for purchase or rental.
3. Optional Accessories to Consider
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Hats or Caps: Help with glare and sun protection.
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Sunscreen & Bug Spray: Outdoor conditions can shift quickly in North Georgia. We also have these in the lodge if needed.
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Gloves: Some shooters prefer padded shooting gloves for grip and comfort, or warmth in the winter.
4. Gear and Rentals Available at EVSC
No need to invest in gear right away. EVSC offers:
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Shotgun rentals for beginners
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Ammo and safety gear onsite
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Golf cart rentals to move between stations
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Pro Shop gear if you’d like to purchase your own
This makes it easy to simply show up, gear up, and enjoy your day.
5. What to Bring: Your Clay Shooting Checklist
Here’s a quick, easy checklist for your first outing:
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Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing
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Closed-toe shoes
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Eye & ear protection (or rent onsite)
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Sunscreen and water bottle
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Valid ID if renting firearms
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A great attitude and your group of friends or coworkers
6. Why EVSC Makes It Easy for Beginners
From bachelor/bachelorette parties to corporate outings, many first-time guests visit EVSC with little to no gear. That’s why we provide everything you need to get started, and professional instructors if you want to improve your skills quickly.
7. FAQs About Clay Shooting Gear
Q: Do I need special clay shooting clothes?
Not at all. Start with what’s comfortable. Many shooters eventually add a vest for convenience, but it’s optional.
Q: Can I bring my own gear?
Yes! Bring your own shotgun, ammo, and protective equipment if you prefer.
Q: What if I forget something?
Our Pro Shop and rental services ensure you’ll never be unprepared.
Final Thoughts
Clay shooting is meant to be fun and accessible, not intimidating. With the right clothing, safety gear, and positive mindset, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable day outdoors in North Georgia.
👉 Ready to gear up and experience clay shooting for yourself? Call us today.
📞 Call: (706) 265-1611
📧 Email: evscevents@gmail.com
🌐 Website: etowahvalleysportingclays.com
📍 Location: 619 Sporting Hill Dr., Dawsonville, GA
