Fencing Practice Equipment

The Best Fencing Practice Equipment for Olympic-style Competition

If you are a new fencer or the parent of a student just starting in the sport, you may be wondering about the elements —the essentials and what attributes you may need to look for — when shopping for your student's fencing practice equipment.

Ultimately, the most important things to look for when you are choosing the right equipment are durability, comfort, and, of course, safety! When you invest in high-quality fencing practice equipment provided by Morehouse Fencing Gear, you can train with confidence, knowing that your safety is covered. You can perform at your personal best.

Let's examine the fencing practice equipment items you may need and see why they are essential to your child or your own success as a fencer.

Why is the Fencing Gear Required?

Fencing is a kind of swordsmanship that gives you points when you strike your opponent in various sections of the body. In electronic scoring, your light on the points system turns on, and the match stops. If one person hits the other, that person scores. If both people strike each other, the person who initiated the match scores. There are more components that go into the various rules of play for epee, sabre, and foil, but this is primarily the idea behind these forms of the game in both dry and electric fencing. It is imperative to have specialized gear for fencing that provides comfort and agility in your movements. The best fencing practice equipment helps you be both nimble and precise in your movements.

Essential Fencing Practice Equipment

When you enter the world of fencing, you’ll realize just how much practice it takes to excel in this sport. With multiple practice classes and private sessions a week, you need to ensure you have the right equipment for your practice and beyond. Here are some of the pieces of equipment that you must have to play and compete!

Fencing sword — For swords, you have the option to use a foil, epi, or sabre sword. The foil is a light thrusting sword in which the player aims at the torso, requiring precise techniques. The epee is a slightly heavier thrusting sword in which you target the entire body, having to play from a more defensive style. And saber swords allow you to play a more quick game where footwork and reflexes are essential – this sword is a curved, slashing sword that targets the upper body.

Fencing Mask — Your mask is essential for your safety during any practice sessions or fencing competition. The mask is made up of a metal mesh guard to protect the competitor's face, as well as an enclosed portion that covers the back of the head, protecting you from any injuries.

Fencing Jacket (Lamé) — The jacket protects the torso, the central area where you will be hit for point scoring.

Pants (Knickers) — The knickers cover to just below the knee, protecting the legs during bouts. These must have good ease of movement.

Fencing Glove — The gloves cover the hand holding the sword, supplying a good grip as well as safeguarding it from any mistaken touch.

Body Cord — The body cord connects the competitor's weapon and suit to the scoring equipment via electrical impulses. This is how the scoring is kept during electric fencing.

Underarm protector (plastron) and Chest protector (for women) — Provides supplementary protection under the fencing jackets to support the fencing competitors.

Shoes and Socks — fencing competitors need safe shoes that provide traction and comfort during the bout.

How to Choose the Right Fencing Practice Equipment

As you shop for your fencing sport, you must choose lightweight and breathable items. Some of the other things to consider are personal preferences of fit and style, the kind of fencing that you will be doing and the level that you will be doing it at, how frequently you will be using your items, and the budget that you have.

Materials Used and What Makes Good Equipment

Due to the nature of the competition, you need to find durable cut-resistant materials that give you flexibility for unrestricted movement. With the rules of play, you need to have electrical conductive components for scoring. Ultimately, your clothing, shoes, and weapon should feel comfortable and securely fit your body to provide the maximum benefit.

The top five things to look for are durability, comfort, safety, flexibility, and style.

1. Durability allows you to withstand frequent contact with blades without wearing them too quickly; having high-quality materials should help your equipment resist the daily use of fencing.

2. Comfort in your mask, jacket, and pants is imperative so that you can quickly move. Be sure that each item fits snugly but is not too tight.

3. Safe fencing equipment is designed with durable wire mesh, padding, and other elements that will protect your head, hands, body, arms, and legs with the proper materials.

4. Flexible Fencing Equipment will allow you to move freely without restriction. Look for jackets and pants that give you movement, made from flexible fabrics.

5. Style comes with the fencing apparel as it's streamlined and classic — but you can add aesthetically pleasing accessories and bold colors to help you stand out on the fencing strip!

Benefits to Expect from Quality Equipment

When you have the proper fencing practice equipment, you can expect to experience —

• Improved performance

• Reduced risk of injury

• Increased comfort during training and competitions

• Enhanced safety for both fencers

• Better protection against cuts and hits

Checking your Equipment

As soon as you receive your fencing equipment, be sure to check that it all feels right. It's always a great idea to check with your coach or training staff to ensure that you have the correct items and the proper fit according to their standards. Be sure to check your products' instructions for cleaning and maintenance, adequate storage, and when you need to replace your items. Taking good care of your fencing practice equipment will help you in the long run as you train and compete in this thrilling sport.

Shopping for Fencing Practice Equipment

We hope you have a good foundation as you shop for fencing practice equipment —and that you love this sport! Morehouse Fencing Gear was established by an Olympian who knows what it takes to win. All of our items are available for a full refund up to 90 days after purchase, ensuring you have exactly what you need to compete at a high level.