How to Dress for a Protest
I've seen protests get disorderly over everything from war or foreign aid to seemingly harmless topics like arts and music in schools. Before you go to a protest, think about the kind of event it will be, whether or not there will be a counter-protest, and whether or not there will be a large police presence. Dress accordingly.
Hopefully, you won't need any of these, but the point is that you'll be happy you have them if things go south in a hurry. Also, when putting on items like goggles or a gas mask, keep in mind that you're walking a line between being prepared for what may happen and telling others that see you that you expect trouble. You may make yourself a target for police, or draw the ire of other protesters who just want to peaceably gather without any trouble. Keep this in mind when packing.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be on your feet for a long time, sometimes for long hours and you may be marching. Wear shoes you're comfortable standing, walking, or running in.
- Wear multiple layers that cover your skin. Wearing layers will make sure you're comfortable in any temperature. Wearing clothing that covers your skin will reduce your exposure to the sun, wind, and yes, to gas or pepper spray if things get out of hand. Dressing in thick layers will also help soften the impact from beanbag rounds and rubber bullets. However, don't do this thinking you'll be able to go toe to toe with police. At most, it won't hurt as much so you have time to get out of the area without being incapacitated by pain.
- Wear goggles or shatter-resistant glasses if you plan to be up front. If you plan to be on the front lines in front of a counter-protest or the police, you need something to protect your eyes in case things get ugly, preferably something with a seal around the eyes. Sure, you don't want pepper spray in your eyes, but you don't want spit from someone shouting at you in your eyes either.
- Wear a zippered backpack. Don't keep your personal belongings in a wallet. Any large crowd of people is perfect for pickpockets, even protests. Keep your belongings in a zippered backpack that you wear square on your back instead.
- Wear a second backpack on your stomach. Stuff this second backpack with towels or a second set of clothes in a sealed plastic bag. The padding on your front will give you a little protection if the police jab you back with a baton (and give you a chance to comply and move back without falling down in pain) and gives you another place to store items you want quick access to, like an ID card, permit to gather, or something else you may need to present to the police when asked.