Nothing ruins an outing faster than being denied entry at check-in. Here are the mandatory footwear rules and athletic dress codes for Activate Games in Oak Brook, Illinois.
Because Activate involves running on high-tech glass and optical sensor floors, dodging laser tripwires, and sprinting across responsive tiles, the facility enforces strict safety guidelines regarding what visitors can wear on the arena floor.
The Non-Negotiable Rule: Closed-Toe Athletic Sneakers
Staff members inspect every player’s footwear at the reception desk before assigning an RFID wristband. If your footwear does not comply with the safety criteria, you will not be allowed onto the game floor—and tickets are non-refundable for footwear non-compliance.
| Footwear Category | Permitted at Activate? | Reason / Facility Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Athletic Running / Tennis Shoes | YES (Mandatory Standard) | Provides rubber grip, shock absorption, and toe protection |
| Crocs / Foam Clogs | STRICTLY PROHIBITED | Lack of ankle support; slip hazard on smooth glass tiles |
| Sandals, Slides & Flip-Flops | STRICTLY PROHIBITED | Zero foot protection; high risk of stubbed toes and falls |
| Boots (Work / Winter / Fashion) | STRICTLY PROHIBITED | Hard soles can damage pressure-sensitive LED sensor panels |
| High Heels / Dress Shoes | STRICTLY PROHIBITED | Pointed heels will puncture or crack floor matrices |
| Barefoot or Socks Only | STRICTLY PROHIBITED | Zero traction; extreme slip and hygiene hazard |
Recommended Clothing: Treat It Like a Gym Workout
Within 15 minutes of dodging lasers in Strike or jumping across Mega Grid, your body temperature will spike. Dress in breathable, moisture-wicking athletic wear:
- Tops: T-shirts, athletic tank tops, or lightweight moisture-wicking shirts. Avoid heavy wool sweaters, bulky hoodies, or jackets.
- Bottoms: Athletic shorts, joggers, or flexible leggings that allow full range of motion for squatting and lunging. Avoid stiff denim jeans or dresses/skirts.
- Hair: If you have long hair, bring an elastic band to tie it into a tight ponytail or bun. In laser rooms like Arena, swaying loose hair regularly breaks optical beams and triggers point deductions.
- Eyewear: If you wear glasses, ensure they fit securely or use an athletic strap, as rapid head turns can send frames flying across the arena.
What to Do with Coats, Bags & Cell Phones
Activate Oak Brook provides rows of free electronic digital lockers in the staging lounge. You can set a temporary 4-digit PIN to safely lock away your winter coat, purse, car keys, and cell phone before entering the gaming concourse.
