How to Dress for a Theme Park Visit

Giving advice about what to wear for a day out at a theme park might seem a little curious but having worked at a park for several years I can tell you that clothing is a major consideration. Guests who dress inappropriately can run into trouble and the problems do not stop at being uncomfortable. The wrong attire can result in being denied access to a ride and can cause operational and safety issues too so here are some tips on how to dress for a successful day out.

Footwear

By far the biggest issue is your footwear. You will be walking and standing for a long period of time and so comfort is a major consideration. Even if you are prepared to brave the pain of stilettos don’t wear them because they may result in you missing out on some of the attractions. There are certain rides where you will be required to wear shoes. This is generally to protect your feet if you have to be evacuated from the ride as such an event can require a lengthy walk on the structure of the attraction. Pointed heels are often banned as many evacuation paths have metal grids for floors in which heels can become stuck. Pointed heels are also generally not allowed on any ride which has an inflatable boat as the vessels can be burst by the footwear.

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Most theme parks have water rides on which you will get wet to some degree and walking around in wet feet can be very unpleasant. It is best not to wear socks, to take a spare pair of socks or to wear sandals or aqua shoes for water rides. Flip flops are a poor choice because you will be forced to wear them on the rides which have evacuation tracks but they may fly off on the circuit.

Scarves and Hats

Loose garments are a nightmare for ride operators. Hats and scarves can fly off on the circuit and either block a sensor or cause an obstruction on the track. If either of these things happens the ride will then cease operating causing delays to those waiting in the queue. The owners of the garments may also find that they are damaged beyond repair. It really is best not to wear accessories to a park but sadly many people do.

Jeans

Denim is pretty much the default clothing for most people but unfortunately it is one of the worse things you can wear to a park. Jeans are hot in the summer and slow to dry if they get wet. You are much better off wearing lightweight shorts and trousers which will keep you cool and will dry quickly after a good drenching on the rides.

Casual is Best

Some people just cannot resist dressing up wherever they go and must always be sporting their designer labels but you should really dress down for a theme park. Choose clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty and damaged because there is a high chance that you will not leave the park in the same state that you entered it! Your clothes will get wet on the water rides which can damage some clothing and then there are the ride cars to consider. Thousands of people sit in the seats every day and so they can become very grubby. Unsavoury guests leave chewing gum on the rides and platform floors and drinks are often spilt around the park. Oil can also work free from the mechanics of the rides and drop onto guests so you are best to dress down for your visit. Leave the Brodie cashmere and Versace jeans at home if you don’t want to ruin them.

Presume that you are going to get wet and grubby at a theme park and it will help you to choose what to wear. Dress presuming the worst and avoid loose accessories and high heels for the safest and most comfortable experience.

Byline

Article by Sally Stacey who currently divides her time between writing and running her bridal shop having worked at a theme park for several years.