Does paintball hurt?

The short answer.

A little. A paintball hit stings for a moment, a bit like a sharp flick. How much depends on how far away the shot came from, where it lands and what you’re wearing. Most players say the adrenaline means they barely notice it mid-game.

What a hit actually feels like.

A quick, sharp sting, then it fades. You’ll feel the slap of the paint, see the splat on your coveralls, and raise your hand.

A hit can leave a small red mark, and occasionally a bruise, usually on bare or thinly covered spots. For most people it’s gone within a few days, and it tends to become a badge of honour in the post-game stories.

Most first-timers are more nervous about being hit than they need to be. By the second game, they’re far more focused on winning.

What makes it hurt more, or less.

• DistanceThe closer the shot, the more it stings. That’s why the minimum shooting distance here is 20 feet.
• Where it landsFleshy areas feel it least. Thin skin over bone feels it most.
• What you’re wearingLayers under the coveralls soften hits noticeably.

How the park keeps it safe.

• Full-face masks are compulsory and stay on until you’re back in the safe area.
• Head hits don’t count, and deliberately aiming at someone’s head isn’t allowed.
• Nobody fires from closer than 20 feet. At close range, players use the surrender option instead.
• No blind firing: you must be able to see what you’re shooting at.
• Three marshals per game group: two on the field and one in the gun room.
• Coveralls are supplied, and body protectors are available if you want them.

Six ways to make it hurt less.

• 1. Wear layers.A hoodie or thick top under the coveralls makes a real difference.
• 2. Ask for a body protector.They’re available on the day.
• 3. Use cover.The less of you that’s showing, the fewer hits you take.
• 4. Keep moving.A moving target is much harder to hit.
• 5. Don’t rush in close.Use the surrender option rather than charging.
• 6. Tell a marshalif anything doesn’t feel right. That’s what they’re there for.

Is it OK for children?

Standard paintball is for age 12 (School Year 7) and above. Younger players have gentler options, all private to your group.

Rather not be hit at all?

Try outdoor Laser Tag: all the tactics of paintball across the same kind of woodland, buildings, bridges and bunkers, with unlimited shots and nothing fired. Every booking is private to your group, from £25 per person for 90 minutes, ages 12 and over.

Or pick a target sport, such as Axe Throwing or Archery, where nobody aims at anybody.

Your questions, answered.

In summary.

• It stings, brieflyMost players barely notice mid-game.
• Rules keep it fairMasks on, 20-foot minimum, no head shots.
• Layers help mostBody protectors are available too.
• Painless options existLaser Tag fires nothing at all.