How to Wear Fencing Gear

Although fencing uses a blunt weapon, wearing the proper fencing gear is crucial in protecting yourself from injury. Fencing clothing is typically made of white, thick cotton. The white color allows judges to more easily see hits by a sword. These steps outline the gear worn during fencing.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Put on a fencing jacket. It zips up the back and has a strap that goes between the legs. It should be form-fitting and cover the groin area. The collar is upright to protect the neck.

2. Protect your sword-side body and arm by placing a plastron under the jacket. A plastic chest protector is also mandatory for women.

3. Cover the legs with breeches or knickers that fall just below the knee. The lower legs are covered with knee-high or thigh-high socks.

4. Slip on a glove that also covers the sleeve on the sword hand only. The other hand is held behind the back.

5. Choose an appropriate mask. All masks have a bib to protect the neck; however, in competition the bib must be sewn on, not just snapped in. Sabre fencing requires a special mask.

6. Wear a flat-soled athletic shoe. Fencing shoes may be purchased that have specially-designed soles to grip fencing surfaces and withstand the wear from lunging.

7. Purchase an electronic scoring vest, called a lame, for competition foil or sabre fencing. The valid target zone is different for the foil and sabre so the jackets are also different. The lame is made of conductive wire mesh and registers a hit by an electric weapon.

Tips & Warnings

• Although street clothes are okay during a lesson, always have the legs covered and wear an official fencing mask and glove.

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