Are you wondering what to wear to escape room outings? These time-limited puzzle/adventure games that are almost “ripped” from the storylines of our favorite movies and video games are a great option for an evening out with friends, a family outing, and even team building with coworkers. Naturally, you’d want to dress to impress and have a great time. On the other hand, you may also wonder if there’s any dress code or tips you should consider. Here’s what you need to know.
Escape Room Attire—The Basics
The key idea behind dress choice in an escape room is that you must move and reach out quickly and easily. Some escape rooms even include limited crawling, jumping, or climbing. In other words, you need all four limbs to be highly nimble and mobile. You should also be comfortable with what you’re wearing, so you won’t be distracted by discomfort.
Stretchable and Breathable Clothing
Clothes made of stretchable and breathable fabrics like cotton, nylon, or spandex will ensure you remain comfortable (for example, no stiff collars that you need to loosen frequently) and mobile. And make sure you wear the right-sized clothes. For example, while jeans are generally comfortable and don’t hinder movement, tight jeans are uncomfortable and could end up distracting you mid-game.
Consider the Team and the Occasion
Who is on your escape room team? Is it your friends? Colleagues from work as part of an office event? Or are you leading a group of students on a school trip?
For example, spandex would be suitable for a friends’ group but certainly not at an office team event or a school trip, which would both demand more formal attire.
Furthermore, consider the larger occasion. Are you just going out for an escape room, or is it part of a wider trip? In the latter case, you should dress keeping the entire itinerary in mind, not just the escape room.
Layering for Comfort
Some escape rooms vary the temperature inside the experience for increased immersion. For example, in a Christmas-themed game, you could face air conditioners at full blast to simulate the North Pole. Or, it could be the exact opposite – a high temperature set to simulate a path to hell. In such cases, it’s better to dress in layers, for example, a light jacket on top of a loose T-shirt. Then you can put on or take off the jacket as needed. You can, of course, ask the gamemaster to adjust the temperature, but it’s quicker and easier to just put on or take off a jacket.
Footwear Tips
Some players forget footwear, but choosing the right one for an enjoyable escape room adventure is equally crucial. Wear flat shoes like sneakers or loafers with adequate padding because you will be standing and moving most of the time. Some escape rooms require limited jumping or crawling—In such cases, footwear with excellent traction, such as athletic shoes, is crucial. Avoid heels or slick shoes like dress shoes, as they can affect balance and restrict movement.
FAQ
What should I avoid wearing to an escape room?
Avoid tight or stiff clothes like dress pants that restrict movement. Fragile clothes, such as silk blouses that could rip easily, should also be left off your dressing plan.
Can I bring a bag or purse into the escape room?
It isn’t advisable primarily as it’ll become a distraction—You’ll constantly need to remember whether you’re carrying it or not. Many escape rooms outright ban carrying bags or purses into the game area. Instead, use a secure belt bag or a small pocket.
Do escape rooms ask you to dress to match the game theme?
Not as a matter of course. Some escape rooms may run time-limited promotions that request teams to dress for the theme, or even require it. Any such request will be clearly mentioned on the website.
On the other hand, you may have fun dressing up for the theme—For example, donning fedora hats and dark-colored coats and trousers to a noir-themed game. If you make such plans, coordinate with the entire team.
Finally, if the escape room visit is for a special occasion, check with them if they allow decorations. If they do, Google for decor options (like our Australian friends did for the party decorations Sydney can offer), and take some along.
Wrapping Up
To conclude, balancing flexibility and mobility with style is crucial in choosing escape room attire. Breathable and stretchable clothes and flattish shoes with traction are your best bet. You can also dress for the theme; If you do, remember to coordinate with the team. Finally, for parties, check if the escape room allows decorations, and carry some along if they say yes.
