Paintballing injuries that are more common than you might think
If you’re thinking about trying out the sport of paintball, or you’re a veteran who has tried it once or twice, you should be aware that some common paintball injuries can happen if you’re not careful. There are a few simple things you can do to prevent these injuries from happening so that you can have a fun and safe time out on the paintball field.
Common paintballing injuries include:
Bruises: As with any physical activity, you’re likely to get some bruises if you’re not wearing the correct protective clothing. It’s best to wear long sleeves and pants made specifically for paintballing, as these will help prevent bruises from occurring when you are hit. If you do get a bruise, it’s likely to stay around for a short while, and you will have some significant battle scars to show off!
Ankle injuries: It’s not just projectiles that can cause paintballing injuries! Ankle injuries, including twists and sprains, are prevalent in paintballing and are often unavoidable. When you are running across a terrain, whether to reach a flag or flee the enemy fire, you could just simply trip and injure yourself.
Eye and ear injuries: Both eye and ear injuries can be extremely painful and often involve leaving the game early and having a recuperation period after the event has finished. Severe ear or eye injuries could involve temporary vision or hearing loss, so it’s imperative to wear the proper safety equipment to avoid this at all costs.
Concussion: Being hit in the head with a projectile is not to be taken lightly and could cause bruising, cuts and trauma if you are not wearing a helmet. Luckily, this can be easily avoided by wearing the proper head protection!
What clothing should you wear at a paintballing event?
Now that we have looked at the most common types of paintballing injuries, it’s time to learn how to avoid them! As ankle injuries are common, it’s essential that they are protected whilst you are out on the field. If you get an ankle injury mid-play, the chances are you will have to call time out and leave the game early. To avoid this, opt for boots or high tops that offer good foot and ankle support at all times. Hiking boots are a good choice because of their grip along all types of terrain but make sure they are not too heavy, especially if you are playing for a long time.
Time for clothing! Your main aim whilst paintballing is to be comfortable and protected, so loose fitting clothing covering your arms and legs is the best option. Tracksuit bottoms and long sleeve t-shirts or jumpers will protect your limbs, keep you warm if you’re playing in muddy terrain and leave you free to run, jump, roll and generally get into the paintball action. Don’t forget to take a change of clothes with you if you are likely to get wet or muddy – there is nothing worse than leaving your paintballing venue cold and wet!
Lastly, your head and arms are just as necessary to protect when paintballing. Projectiles travel fast when they leave a marker, and a shot to the hand or head can often put you out of action. Consider taking gloves with you to protect your hands from paintballing injuries. If you are a novice player, you will likely be provided with a helmet and goggles when you get to the venue, but you will probably have your own safety equipment to hand if you are a long-term paintball player. A baseball cap or beanie could also be an excellent addition to your clothing.
Paintballing attire to protect your limbs and face!
Paintball is a popular activity enjoyed by many. It is a great way to spend time with family and friends as well as release some stress after a long day at work. Paintball is a fun activity and can be played by people of all ages. With the right safety equipment, paintball can be a fun activity with minimal risk of injury.
One of the most important pieces of safety equipment you need is paintball goggles to protect your eyes and face. If you are wearing goggles, you are much less likely to sustain eye injuries, and you will be able to play for longer before tiring out. Gloves are also an important addition, and with BGUK leather combat gloves, you get armoured knuckle supports built in to protect your fingers and keep you playing.
Lastly, we recommend you purchase head protection to avoid getting a projectile to the head and wiping yourself out of the game. BattleGear UK has a selection of beanies and baseball caps available to keep you protected and help you stay camouflaged whilst you are playing.
This may also interest you:
A guide to choosing the right projectile for your marker
Five expectations when you work with a reputable paintball supplier
Legal vs illegal UK paintballing activities: A BattleGear guide
BattleGear UK has all the equipment you need to stay safe on at your paintball event
Picking out the right paintball mask is crucial for your paintball gear. If you want to be safe and keep your vision protected from paintball impacts, you shouldn’t settle for anything less than the best. That’s why at BattleGear UK, we have curated a massive range of the best safety equipment to support you when you are at a paintballing event. Avoid paintballing injuries, stay camouflaged and dress to impress when you purchase your safety equipment with BattleGear UK.
