What to Wear and How to Behave: A Guide to UK Shoot Day Style and Etiquette

Stepping out on your first driven shoot in the UK can be equal parts exciting and daunting. Alongside the thrill of the day comes a long tradition of countryside etiquette, unspoken rules, and expectations — including what you wear.

Whether you’re game shooting in the rolling hills of Yorkshire or the hedgerows of Norfolk, dressing the part and understanding shoot day etiquette is key to fitting in, staying safe, and enjoying the day to its fullest.

Here’s your no-nonsense guide to what to wear — and how to behave — on a shoot day in the UK.

What to Wear on a Shoot in the UK

The ideal shoot day outfit balances tradition, practicality, and the unpredictable British weather. Here’s a head-to-toe guide:

1. Headwear

• Flat cap: A traditional choice, helps with warmth and keeping rain off your face.

• Wide-brimmed hat: Also acceptable — useful on wet or sunny days.

• Avoid anything too casual (baseball caps, for example).

2. Jacket

• Tweed shooting jacket: A classic and often expected on formal days.

• Waterproof shooting coat: Essential in poor weather; must allow freedom of movement to mount your gun.

Look for something with plenty of pockets and a comfortable fit for raising your gun.

3. Shirt

• Tattersall or check shirts: A traditional staple.

• Thermal base layers: Layering is important — British weather can change quickly.

4. Tie or Cravat

• Not always essential, but often worn on more formal shoots.

• Wearing one shows respect for the tradition and the host.

5. Waistcoat or Shooting Vest

• Offers extra warmth and storage without restricting movement.

• Especially useful for early season or dry days.

6. Breeks or Trousers

• Tweed breeks or plus fours: Often worn with long socks and garters — traditional and still popular.

• Moleskin or cord trousers: A good alternative for less formal or very wet days.

• Avoid jeans or camo trousers — they’re usually frowned upon on driven days.

7. Socks and Garters

• Long shooting socks with flashes (garters) are traditional with breeks.

• Make sure they’re warm and don’t slip down during the day.

8. Footwear

• Leather shooting boots or wellies (e.g. Le Chameau, Aigle): Must be waterproof, comfortable, and provide grip.

• Break them in before the day — there’s often plenty of walking.

9. Gloves

• Optional, but helpful in cold weather.

• Choose a pair with good grip and dexterity.

10. Eye and Ear Protection

• Not just sensible, but often required.

• Ear defenders (plugs or muffs) and safety glasses protect you and others.

Tip: Always check with the host if there’s a dress code. Some formal shoots expect full tweeds, while others are more relaxed.

Shoot Day Etiquette: The Unwritten Rules

What you wear is only half the story. Knowing how to conduct yourself on the day is equally important — especially if you’re new to shooting.

1. Be Punctual

Arrive on time — or better yet, early. Respect the host’s schedule and allow time for the briefing and introductions.

2. Listen to the Briefing

The morning briefing covers safety, pegs, drives, and expected conduct. Pay attention — it’s the most important part of the day.

3. Safety First

• Always treat your gun as loaded.

• Keep the barrels pointed safely at all times.

• Never swing through the line.

• Load only when on the peg and when told it’s safe to do so.

4. Respect the Birds

• Don’t shoot at low birds or "ground game” unless explicitly permitted.

• Pick your shots carefully — shoot cleanly and ethically.

5. Be Gracious

• Thank the beaters, pickers-up, host, and anyone else involved in the day.

• Politeness costs nothing and goes a long way.

6. Mind Your Peg

• Stay within your peg boundaries unless invited to move.

• Don’t crowd the next Gun or encroach on their space.

7. Control Your Dog (If You Bring One)

• Only bring a dog if it’s steady and experienced.

• Make sure it doesn’t distract other Guns or chase game.

• Keep it under control at all times.

8. Dress Respectfully

Even on less formal days, aim to look smart and presentable. Avoid loud colours, logos, or camo unless you’re explicitly told otherwise.

9. Follow the Lead

If you’re unsure of something — when to load, shoot, or move — watch what the more experienced Guns are doing and quietly ask if needed.

10. Tip Your Loader (If You Have One)

• If you’re using a loader, it’s customary to tip them at the end of the day — the amount will vary depending on the shoot.

Final Thoughts

A shooting day in the UK is about more than just pulling the trigger. It’s a cultural experience rooted in tradition, etiquette, and respect — for the quarry, the land, and the people involved. Dressing correctly and behaving with courtesy will ensure you’re welcome back, whether it’s your first day in the field or your fiftieth.

So layer up, brush off your flat cap, and enjoy the day. There’s nothing quite like the camaraderie, the countryside, and the crack of the Guns echoing across the field.