How to Buy Foil Fencing Equipment

Fencing is a competitive sport that requires self-discipline, quick thinking and skill. The right fencing gear ensures safety and can enhance your match play. Learn how to buy the right foil fencing gear that fits your body type and provides safety.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Find a fencing jacket. Jackets are commonly made from nylon or cotton. While cotton is softer, nylon jackets won't shrink.

2. Choose a protective vest called a "lamé" to wear in foil fencing. The lamé is made of metallic material that reacts when a foil point touches it. The vest goes on over the jacket.

3. Pick a sword for fencing. The foil is one of three types of fencing swords. The foil sword has a flexible blade and is used to touch--not slash--the opponent. You touch the foil to the lamé of an opposing player to register a point.

4. Purchase a fencing glove for your sword hand. The glove is padded to offer protection and generally made of suede to give you tactile awareness while you handle the foil.

5. Acquire a fencing mask. The mask is the most important piece of protective equipment in fencing as it keeps the head, face and neck areas safe. The mask should fit your head snugly and have a bib in the front to protect your neck.

6. Buy fencing shoes that are lightweight and have good gripping soles.

7. Select a breast protector if you are a woman. This is must for both practice and competition.

Tips & Warnings

• Buy basic foil fencing gear in a kit from a reputable vendor. The kits include a jacket, practice foil, mask and glove and are more cost-effective for a novice in fencing.
• Measure yourself before you purchase foil fencing gear. Don't forget to measure your hand and your head to ensure a proper glove and mask fit.

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