Section 2: Equipment
Core Requirements
Tag requires no equipment whatsoever. This is one of the game's greatest strengths — it can be played anywhere, anytime, by anyone, with nothing but open space and willing participants. No ball, no net, no bat, no goal. Just players and a place to run.
Optional Boundary Markers
- Cones: Plastic sport cones can be used to mark the boundaries of the playing area, especially on open fields where natural landmarks are absent
- Chalk: Sidewalk chalk can outline boundaries on paved surfaces such as playgrounds, driveways, or parking lots
- Natural landmarks: Trees, sidewalks, fences, walls, and painted lines on sports courts all serve as effective boundary markers
- Rope or tape: In indoor settings, masking tape or jump ropes laid on the floor can define the play area
Optional Identification for IT
- Pinnie or vest: A brightly colored vest or pinnie worn by IT makes it easy for all players to identify who is chasing
- Hat or bandana: A hat, bandana, or headband passed to the new IT upon tagging
- Pool noodle or foam baton: In some variants, IT carries a soft foam object and tags by touching other players with it, reducing disputes about whether a tag occurred
- Flashlight: Required for Flashlight Tag (nighttime variant); a standard handheld flashlight used by IT to "tag" by shining the beam on a player
Optional Safe Zone Markers
- Base markers: Cones, hula hoops, mats, or chalk circles to designate safe zones or bases where players cannot be tagged
- Flags or ribbons: Used in Flag Tag variants where players wear flags tucked into waistbands; pulling a flag constitutes a tag
Footwear and Clothing
- Closed-toe athletic shoes are recommended for outdoor play on grass or hard surfaces
- Bare feet are acceptable on soft grass or sand but increase the risk of cuts and stubbed toes
- Loose, comfortable clothing that allows free movement is ideal
- Avoid scarves, necklaces, lanyards, or dangling accessories that could catch on objects or other players