Dinosaur costumes are usually made of fabric and foam padding to create the shape of the dinosaur. Here are some typical ways dinosaur costumes are designed and worn:

  • The head is often a molded foam or fabric mask that fits over the wearer’s head. It may have openings for the eyes, nostrils and mouth so the wearer can see and breathe. Elastic bands or a velcro strap keeps it secure on the head.
  • The body is made of a padded jumpsuit, similar to an animal mascot costume. The tail is usually padded foam and attached to the back of the suit. For two-legged dinosaurs, the wearer’s legs stick out of the bottom of the suit. For four-legged styles, the wearer’s arms operate the front legs from inside the costume.
  • Some suits have plastic molded claws or scales sewn onto the fabric exterior to look more realistic. Spikes and plates down the back can also be molded from foam or fabric.
  • The coloration and patterns are printed or sewn onto the fabric exterior. Details like teeth and claws may be painted onto the foam parts.
  • Smaller dinosaur costumes may just involve mask, tail, and padded gloves or booties to give a dinosaur look without the full body jumpsuit.
  • The costume is stepped into from the back and usually zips or velcros closed. Arm, leg and head openings allow comfortable wearing. Fans and vent flaps are sometimes built in to increase airflow and cooling.

So in summary, imaginative use of materials like foam, fabric and plastic, along with creative construction allows people to transformed into walking dinosaurs!