What Makes a Great Fencing Jacket
A fencing jacket is more than just protective clothing — it’s your second skin on the piste. The right jacket can be the difference between confident, unrestricted movement and a day spent fighting your gear instead of your opponent.
A great fencing jacket achieves three things: protection, comfort, and durability. The best ones don’t sacrifice one for the other. They resist thousands of blade impacts while staying flexible, breathable, and lightweight — allowing you to move freely through every lunge, parry, and riposte.
For fencers training or competing seriously, upgrading to an 800N fencing jacket isn’t optional — it’s essential. And among modern options, Prieur’s Superlight 800N line stands out as the perfect blend of elite protection and all-day comfort.
Understanding 800N Protection
If you’ve ever wondered what “800N” means, here’s the short answer: it’s a safety rating that measures the fabric’s puncture resistance.
The “N” stands for Newtons, the unit of force. An 800N fencing jacket must resist a force of 800 Newtons before being pierced — meeting the highest FIE safety standard.
This level of protection is mandatory for all FIE competitions and strongly recommended for anyone fencing at the national level.
Compared to 350N training jackets, an 800N model offers:
Double the puncture resistance
Longer fabric life
Peace of mind under pressure
At Prieur, every 800N jacket is built to exceed the standard, using layered, tightly woven technical fabrics that maintain their resistance even after years of use. Whether you fence foil, epee, or sabre, you’ll have confidence that your jacket can handle any hit that comes your way.
Fabric Technology and Comfort
Not all 800N jackets are built the same. Many competitors use stiff or heavy fabrics that feel protective but limit range of motion — not ideal for long lessons or competition days.
That’s where the Prieur Superlight 800N fabric shines.
Developed through years of material innovation, Superlight combines elite-level protection with ultra-low weight and exceptional breathability. It’s designed to move like a second layer of skin — offering top-tier resistance without the stiffness of traditional 800N materials.
What sets Superlight apart:
30% lighter than standard 800N fabrics
Soft-touch inner weave for comfort against the skin
Breathable micro-mesh structure for superior airflow
The result is a jacket that feels cool, mobile, and competition-ready — perfect for long travel days or back-to-back events.
This same Superlight fabric is also used in Prieur’s 800N fencing pants, ensuring consistent comfort and performance throughout your uniform.
Tailoring, Fit, and Mobility
No two fencers move exactly the same — and your jacket should reflect that. The fit of a fencing jacket directly impacts comfort and movement: too tight, and your reach or rotation suffers; too loose, and the extra fabric can feel bulky and distract from your performance.
Prieur’s 800N jackets — especially the Superlight line — are engineered with athlete-specific sizing and ergonomic patterning to deliver both protection and freedom of movement.
They’re available in both men’s and women’s cuts, designed to match natural posture and fencing form:
Men’s 800N Superlight Jackets: Broader shoulder design with a fitted waist for full arm extension and balance.
Women’s 800N Superlight Jackets: Shaped seams and curved panels that move comfortably with your form.
Each size is carefully graded to ensure a precise fit off the rack, eliminating stiffness or restriction that can hold you back. Pair your jacket with our Superlight 800N pants for a complete uniform system — lightweight, breathable, and harmonized across every movement.
Maintenance and Longevity
High-performance fencing gear deserves careful upkeep. Your jacket goes through constant motion, sweat, and impact — so proper care keeps it safe and sharp for seasons to come.
To preserve your 800N fencing jacket’s protective layers:
Air it out after each session. Hang to dry fully — never store damp gear.
Machine wash on gentle. Use cold water and mild detergent; avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
Air dry only. High heat can degrade protective fibers.
Inspect seams and closures regularly. Repair early signs of wear.
Store flat or on a hanger. Avoid tight folds or compression.
The Superlight fabric dries quickly and resists odor retention, making maintenance simple and travel-friendly — another reason it’s become Prieur’s most popular choice among competitive fencers.
Visual Guide: Jacket Care Tips
Choosing Your Prieur 800N Jacket
Selecting the right fencing jacket depends on your competition level and training volume. Here’s a quick guide:
For a complete uniform, combine your jacket with:
Together, they form a fully compliant, high-performance system trusted by elite athletes around the world.
The Prieur Difference
Since 1788, Prieur has been a leader in fencing innovation, trusted by Olympic and World Cup fencers for gear that combines craftsmanship, protection, and comfort.
Our 800N jackets — including the Superlight series — are designed and manufactured in France using premium European textiles. Every seam, panel, and closure is tested to meet the highest standards of durability and flexibility.
We don’t just meet regulations — we redefine comfort and confidence for modern fencing athletes.
Final Thoughts
Your fencing jacket is an investment in both performance and safety. Choosing an 800N fencing jacket ensures you’re protected at every level, from club training to international competition.
For fencers who want the best balance of lightweight feel, breathability, and elite protection, the Prieur Superlight 800N Jacket delivers unmatched comfort without compromise.
Train harder, fence longer, and stay cooler — all while meeting the FIE’s top safety standard.
Shop the Collection:
Lightweight. Protective. Proven.
Fence with confidence — fence with Prieur.