Fencing is a dynamic and elegant sport that requires precision and skill. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into the world of fencing or a competitive fencer aiming to upgrade your fencing equipment, understanding the essentials is crucial. In this guide, we’ll explore the necessary fencing equipment for getting started in fencing and what competitive fencers need to excel.
Essential Equipment for All Fencers
Regardless of the weapon you choose—foil, epee, or sabre—there are several essential items every fencer needs:
Jacket
Underarm Protector
Pants
A protective garment designed to cover the arms and torso, providing necessary safety during bouts.
An additional layer worn beneath the jacket to protect the underarm area from thrusts.
Known as knickers, these are designed to protect the legs and knees.
Socks
Glove
Shoes
Long socks that extend up to the knees, ensuring there is no gap between the pants and socks.
A single glove worn on the sword hand for grip and protection
Lightweight, non-slip shoes designed to provide agility and support.
Bag
A sturdy bag to transport and store your fencing equipment. To find the perfect bag for your needs, consider factors like size, durability, and compartments. For more detailed guidance, check out our article on How to Pick the Right Fencing Bag For You: A Comprehensive Guide
Foil-Specific Equipment
Foil fencing focuses on precision and targets the torso. Here is the fencing equipment specific to foil fencers:
Mask w/ Electric Bib
Foil Lame Vest
A mask with a conductive bib to register touches on the target area.
A metallic vest that covers the target area to allow hits when doing electric fencing.
Foil/Sabre Body Cord
Foil/Sabre Mask Cord
Connects the fencer’s weapon to the scoring box.
Ensures a stable connection between the electric bib and the lame.
Foil Weapon
A lightweight weapon, foil has the smallest bell guard of the three weapons.
Epee-Specific Equipment
Epee fencing allows the entire body as a valid target. Equipment necessary for epee fencers includes:
Mask w/ No Electric Bib
A standard mask without a conductive bib.
Epee Body Cord
Links the weapon to the scoring box.
Epee Weapon
A heavier weapon with a stiffer blade and a large bell guard.
Sabre-Specific Equipment
Sabre fencing focuses on cutting actions, with only the upper body as target area. Required equipment for sabre fencers includes:
Mask-Fully Electric
A fully electric mask to accommodate sabre touches.
Sabre Lame Jacket
Covers the target area with a conductive surface for scoring.
Sabre Weapon
A lightweight weapon with a curved guard.
Beginner Fencing Equipment
For beginners, investing in affordable and basic fencing equipment is advisable. Here’s a quick checklist:
350N Jacket and Pants
Body and Mask Cords
Adequate protection for initial practice and learning.
We recommend having at least two of each type of cord. This will be sufficient for starting practice sessions.
Complete Weapons
Fencing Bag
We recommend having at least two completely built weapons. Basic versions provide a cost-effective start.
View our guide on How to Build Your Fencing Blade for more details!
When you’re first starting out, a small fencing bag that is easy to transport and sufficient for basic gear. For more detailed information, check out our Comprehensive Guide on How to Pick Your Fencing Bag
Fencing Starter Kit
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get all the equipment you need, take a look at our fencing starter kits. We offer a wide range to suit everyone’s needs: Prieur USA Starter Kits
Competitive Fencing Equipment
Competitive fencers require more durable and specialized equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:
Cords and Weapons
Fencing Bag
Prepare for long competition days and extended bouts with extra gear. We recommend having three or more additional cords and weapons.
Consider investing in more advanced blades like BF/Maraging for resilience.
View our guide on how to Build Your Fencing Blade: Tips for Selecting the Best Components
A large fencing bag, designed for travel, will allow you to easily transport all the gear required for tournaments. Check out our guide on how to Pack Your Fencing Bag for Effortless Tournament Travel!
800N Jacket and Pants
Stenciling Needed
This is required for FIE Competitions. Offers enhanced protection for high-intensity competition.
Fencers are required to have their last name stenciled on their gear for certain tournaments.
By equipping yourself with the right gear, you’ll be prepared to advance from practice sessions to national competitions confidently. Whether you’re just starting or competing at the highest levels, investing in quality equipment tailored to your needs will enhance your fencing experience and performance.
Purchase Your Fencing Gear at Prieur USA
Ready to gear up for your fencing journey? Look no further than Prieur USA for all your fencing equipment needs. Our extensive selection of high-quality fencing gear ensures you’ll find everything from beginner essentials to advanced competitive equipment.
Why Choose Prieur USA?
- Wide Range of Products: Whether you’re just starting out or upgrading to compete at the national level, we have the perfect gear for every fencer.
- Quality Assurance: Our products are made from durable, top-quality materials to ensure maximum performance and safety.
- Expert Guidance: Not sure what you need? Our team of experts is available to help you make the best choice based on your fencing style and level.
- Convenient Shopping: Shop online with ease and have all your equipment delivered straight to your door.
Visit us at Prieur USA and step confidently into the world of fencing with the best gear at your side.