If you’re a parent new to the sport of fencing, welcome—this is an exciting journey. Fencing is safe, fast, and incredibly fun for kids. It cultivates focus, confidence, and athleticism. But the first question most parents ask is: what exactly do we need to buy to get started? In this guide, we’ll walk you through a practical kids fencing gear checklist, explain what each item does, how to choose the right size, and where a trusted brand like Prieur fits in.
This article is designed for parents looking for a clear, expert-backed youth fencing equipment checklist, including a kids fencing gear list for beginners and suggestions for a starter fencing kit for kids. We’ll also link to some extra resources to help you build a complete fencing knowledge base on your site.
Who This Guide Is For
- Parents of children ages 6+ who are new to fencing
- Families evaluating beginner gear versus renting from a club
- Caregivers looking for safe, regulation-compliant equipment
- Parents seeking a convenient starter fencing kit for kids
- Coaches and club admins who want a shareable gear guide
These readers want clarity on:
- The essential kids fencing gear list and how to size it
- Budget versus premium options, and when to upgrade
- Safety standards (CE ratings, FIE vs. non-FIE)
- Durability and washability for busy family schedules
- Trusted brands like Prieur that offer beginner-friendly bundles
The 8-Item Kids Fencing Gear Checklist (Quick Overview)
- Mask (with bib)
- Jacket
- Underarm Protector (Plastron)
- Glove (weapon hand)
- Chest Protector (mandatory for girls; common for boys)
- Fencing Pants
- Socks and Shoes
- Weapon and Body Cord (foil, epee, or sabre)
We’ll cover each item in depth below, including how to choose the right size, safety standards, and where Prieur’s products shine.
Safety and Standards: What Parents Should Know
Before diving into the list, a quick word about standards:
- CE Certification: Most entry-level club gear (non-FIE) is CE-certified for safety and suitable for youth practice and local competitions.
- FIE Certification: Designed for high-level competition and stronger puncture resistance (e.g., 800N or 1600N materials). This is more of an upgrade as kids progress.
- Weapon Type: Your club will recommend which weapon your child starts with—foil, epee, or sabre. This impacts the mask type, glove cuff, and body cord.
External resource suggestions:
1) Mask: The First Line of Defense
A properly fitted mask is the cornerstone of kids fencing gear. It protects the face, head, and throat (via the bib).
What to look for:
- Fit: The mask should feel snug, not loose. When your child nods or shakes their head, it should stay put.
- Sweat Management: Kids get warm quickly. Choose padding that wicks moisture and can dry between sessions.
- Weapon Compatibility:
- Foil masks often require a conductive bib (for competition)
- Epee masks do not require a conductive bib
- Sabre masks are fully conductive for scoring
- Safety: CE-certified is standard for beginners. FIE masks are available for advanced fencers.
Prieur pick:
- Prieur Youth Mask (Foil/Epee/Sabre variants) with comfortable interior foam and strong bib construction—designed for kids’ head sizes with adjustable harnesses.
Pro tip: Write your child’s name on the back strap—club mask racks can get busy.
2) Jacket: Full-Torso Protection
The fencing jacket protects the torso and arms. Youth sizes are tailored for smaller frames and better range of motion.
What to look for:
- Cut and Mobility: Kids need easy arm lift and torso rotation for lunges.
- Breathability: Lightweight fabrics keep practices enjoyable.
- Closure: Secure zipper and Velcro overlay to keep the jacket closed.
- Handedness: Jackets are typically ambidextrous; underarm protectors manage handedness.
- Safety: Look for CE ratings for beginners. Upgrade to FIE for higher-level competition as your child grows.
Prieur pick:
- Prieur Youth Jacket (350N) for beginners—durable and comfortable with reinforced seams for frequent use.
Sizing tip: Measure chest, waist, and height; choose a snug-but-not-tight fit. Your club can help confirm sizing.
3) Underarm Protector (Plastron): Hidden, Essential Protection
The plastron is worn under the jacket, adding extra puncture resistance on the weapon side and covering armpit areas that are not fully protected by the jacket alone. For kids, this is a must-have for both training and competition.
What to look for:
- Side-Specific: Right-handed or left-handed options
- Comfort: Breathable materials help keep kids cool
- Compliance: CE-rated is sufficient for beginners; FIE is optional for advanced levels
Prieur pick:
- Prieur Youth Plastron with ergonomic cut for arm lift and extension.
Parent note: Kids often forget to pack this—add it to your “always-in-the-bag” list.
4) Glove: Grip, Control, and Safety
The glove protects the weapon hand from abrasion and minor impact while improving grip.
What to look for:
- Fit: Snug fingers without pinching. Too loose reduces control; too tight restricts movement.
- Palm Material: Non-slip grips help beginners maintain a steady hold.
- Cuff Length:
- Foil/Epee: Standard cuff
- Sabre: Often requires a glove with conductive cuff for scoring (check your club’s rules)
- Ventilation: Mesh zones keep small hands cooler.
Prieur pick:
Cleaning tip: Air dry after practice. Avoid high heat; it can stiffen the material.
5) Chest Protector: Mandatory for Girls, Recommended for Boys
Chest protectors provide additional safety and confidence—especially important at the youth level where technique is developing.
What to look for:
- Correct Size: Youth models should cover the chest without restricting breathing or movement.
- Comfort: Smooth edges and proper curvature for kids.
- Compliance: Required for girls in most competitions and widely used for boys for extra protection.
Prieur pick:
- Prieur Youth Chest Protector with contoured fit; works seamlessly under Prieur jackets and plastrons.
6) Fencing Pants: Mobility and Coverage
Fencing pants extend from waist to just below the knee and are worn with long socks to protect the legs.
What to look for:
- Material: Durable, lightweight, and flexible for lunges and quick direction changes.
- Waistband: Secure and comfortable; adjustability is helpful as kids grow.
- Reinforcement: High-stress areas (thighs/knees) should be reinforced.
- Compliance: CE-rated is standard for beginners.
Prieur pick:
Sizing tip: Pair with long socks to ensure no skin is exposed between the fencing pants and socks.
7) Socks and Shoes: Footwork Matters
Footwork is foundational in fencing. Appropriate shoes and socks improve safety and performance.
Socks:
- Long, non-slip socks that reach to the knee
- Cushioned but not bulky
- View our Prieur Socks here!
Shoes:
- Court-style or fencing-specific shoes with good lateral support
- Shock absorption in the heel for repetitive lunging
- Flat profile and grippy sole for quick starts and stops
- See our shoe offerings!
Prieur note:
- We pair well with most reputable youth fencing shoes. If you’re building a starter fencing kit for kids, ask us about recommended footwear partners.
Parent tip: Label shoes and keep a backup pair of long socks in the gear bag.
8) Weapon and Body Cord: The “Fun Part”
Your child’s club will advise whether to start with foil, epee, or sabre. Beginners often start with foil, but this varies by program. You’ll also need a body cord to connect the weapon to the scoring apparatus.
Foil:
- Lighter, target is torso
- May need a conductive bib mask for competition
- Body cord with 2-pin configuration
- Complete Prieur Foils
Epee:
- Heavier, full-body target
- No lame (conductive jacket) required
- Body cord with 3-pin configuration
- Complete Prieur Epees
Sabre:
- Cutting weapon; target is everything above the waist
- Requires conductive mask and jacket (lame)
- Body cord with 2-pin configuration
- Complete Prieur Sabres
Prieur pick:
- Prieur Youth Foil/Epee/Sabre options available with child-friendly grips (French or pistol) and balanced weight.
- Prieur Body Cords designed for durability and easy maintenance.
Maintenance tip: Keep a small zip bag with spare tips, screws, and an allen key. Clubs appreciate prepared parents!
Optional but Recommended: The Starter Fencing Kit for Kids
For families who prefer a simple, cost-effective purchase, a kids fencing gear list can be bundled into a single starter fencing kit for kids. This typically includes:
- Mask
- Jacket
- Plastron
- Glove
- Chest protector
- Fencing Pants
- Socks (sometimes included)
- Weapon and body cord (weapon-specific)
Prieur Starter Kit suggestion:
- Prieur Youth Beginner Kit (Foil/Epee/Sabre variants): Bundled pricing, cohesive sizing, brand consistency, and fewer sizing mismatches. Contact our team to match your club’s requirements.
How to Choose the Right Size (Without Stress)
- Use our youth size chart: Measure height, chest, waist, hip, and arm length. If between sizes, consider growth room, but avoid oversizing that compromises safety.
- Try-on at the club: Many clubs keep sample sizes.
- Ask Prieur support: Share your child’s measurements and weapon type; we’ll recommend a size set that aligns with your club’s specifications.
Care and Cleaning: Keep Gear Fresh and Safe
- Jacket, Fencing Pants, and plastron: Cold wash, gentle cycle, air dry.
- Glove: Spot clean and air dry.
- Mask: Wipe down interior; air out between sessions; replace padding if worn.
- Body cord and weapon: Coil cables gently; wipe blades dry; check screws weekly.
- Bag organization: Use a dedicated fencing bag; small pouches for spare parts.
Care tips resource:
Budgeting and When to Upgrade
- Entry level (CE-rated) gear is ideal for the first year or two.
- Upgrade to FIE jacket/mask/plastron as your child:
- Enters regional/national competitions
- Increases training volume
- Outgrows entry-level gear and needs higher durability
Prieur approach:
- Start with Prieur Youth 350N jacket and Fencing Pants for beginners.
- Upgrade to FIE components as performance goals increase, keeping your existing Prieur fit preference.
Common Parent Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can my child share gear with a sibling?
A: Some items can be shared (weapon, body cord, bag), but fitted items like mask, jacket, Fencing Pants, glove, and chest protector should be individually sized for safety and hygiene.
Q: Do we need a lame (conductive jacket) right away?
A: Only for foil and sabre competition. Many clubs let beginners start without or borrow one during early practices. Ask your coach.
Q: Is fencing safe for kids?
A: Yes. With the right kids fencing gear list and proper instruction, fencing ranks high in safety among youth sports. Always follow your club’s guidelines and maintain the gear.
Q: What’s the difference between French and pistol grips?
A: French grips are straight, often recommended for developing hand strength and blade control; pistol grips offer ergonomic control. Your coach can guide this choice.
Sample Packing List: Practice Day
- Mask
- Jacket
- Plastron
- Glove
- Chest protector
- Fencing pants
- Long socks
- Shoes
- Weapon + body cord
- Water bottle, small towel
- Spare screws and tool
Print this checklist and keep it in the gear bag!
Internal Link Suggestions (for Your Website)
- Types of Fencing Swords in 2025: Epee, Foil, and Sabre Explained
- Choosing the Right Fencing Uniform: A Guide
- The Essential Guide to Fencing Equipment
These internal links will help readers navigate related content, improve session duration, and support SEO through topic clusters.
Why Choose Prieur for Kids Fencing Gear
- Youth-first design: Our cuts, padding, and closures are engineered for juniors.
- Club-aligned options: CE-rated beginner gear with upgrade paths to FIE.
- Bundles that make sense: Cohesive starter fencing kit for kids—fewer sizing headaches and better value.
- Quality and support: Durable materials, clear sizing support, and responsive customer service.
Featured Prieur picks:
- Prieur Youth Mask (Foil/Epee/Sabre)
- Prieur Youth Jacket 350N
- Prieur Youth Plastron
- Prieur Youth Glove (Foil/Epee/Sabre conductive options)
- Prieur Youth Fencing Pants 350N
- Prieur Chest Protector (Youth)
- Prieur Body Cords and Beginner Foil/Epee/Sabre
Conclusion: Set Your Young Fencer Up for Success
A clear, complete youth fencing equipment checklist removes guesswork and lets your child focus on learning, playing, and thriving. Starting with the essentials—mask, jacket, plastron, glove, chest protector, Fencing Pants, socks/shoes, and a correctly sized weapon/body cord—ensures safety and confidence from day one.
Prieur is here to help you build the perfect kit. Whether you want individual pieces or a streamlined starter fencing kit for kids, we’ll guide you on sizing, club requirements, and upgrade timing.
Call to Action
Ready to equip your young fencer?
- Explore the Prieur Youth Starter Kit and individual kids fencing gear on our shop page.
- Subscribe to our newsletter for sizing tips, gear care guides, and exclusive offers.
- Follow Prieur on social media for tutorials, parent checklists, and behind-the-scenes from competitions.
Your child’s fencing journey starts with the right gear. Let’s build it—together.