Function over fashion

Will Martin offers guidance on what — and what not — to wear on your first day, covering everything from socks to shooting jackets

Fashionista is not a word that anyone would use to describe me. In fact, I would say that I am decidedly unfashionable, a “chinos and a shirt” man if anything. I was surprised, then, when the Editor asked if I would write a guide on what you should wear on your first day’s shooting.

First and foremost, the following three words should be your mantra: warm, dry and comfortable. Any item of clothing or footwear that does not meet at least one of these criteria should be left for the catwalk. Shooting is not a fashion show; shooting is braving the elements — driving rain, snow, hail and sleet. Come the short December days, you will be thankful that your breeks are wool and your jumper is thick.

Secondly, know your audience. If you are joining a syndicate I imagine you know your fellow Guns and the general dress that is expected. But there is nothing worse than turning up in full tweed when everyone else is in camouflage jackets — I speak from experience — so if you are in any doubt about the dress code, ask. The following guidelines will help Guns joining a small syndicate, shooting in mid-october, avoid any serious fashion faux pas.

Socks

Let’s start at the bottom. Socks are arguably the only piece of shooting attire where you can show some flamboyance. Bright yellow, pink and purple socks are all perfectly acceptable provided they are wool and go up to the knee.

Of course, for most of the time they will be covered by your boots — hence the allowance of flamboyance — but come the end of the day when you remove your boots and enter the shoot room, you may, should you wish, make your fashion statement. For further splendour, flashes may be worn.

Legs

I would recommend plus twos, which should be tweed, though moleskin is fine and perhaps better if your day is “beat one, shoot one”. They should finish exactly 4in below the knee when unfastened; when fastened, they should have a 2in fold which should be tucked into your socks.

Plus fours are worn by golfers and stalkers and, unless you plan to be squatting throughout the day, should be left in the shop. Schöffel isn’t bad for plus twos but Beretta does an excellent pair at a reasonable price. Depending on your girth, a belt or braces may be required.

Shirt

A simple, long-sleeved shirt in a good country check is all that is required here. Barbour does some superb ones, though they can be a little short in the sleeve. Hoggs of Fife also does a good shirt at a decent price.

I like to wear a warm vest under my shirt. My friend James Tusting calls me a wimp, but on a freezing January day, I’m the one who’s laughing.

Tweed waistcoat

I have a lovely three-piece shooting suit from Barbour and I believe it looks rather fine. However, turning up on the first day in full tweed, complete with waistcoat and tags still attached, may be seen as a touch