What Fencing Gear do you Need to Start?

Along with a healthy attitude and adequate staying power, a fencer also requires a few other things when fencing. If you are outfitting yourself for competition it's a bit more complicated. If you're starting out you need a fencing jacket, mask, glove and fencing equipment. The fencing equipment you use to practice with includes a foil, saber or epee.

Many clubs will help beginners by lending them fencing equipment when they are just starting out. Once you complete a beginner course, you will be hooked, and will want to get your own fencing gear. There are a couple of different options for beginners.

The initial way to go is to acquire separate items one by one until you have a full set. Another way achieve this is to purchase a starter kit. These kits come with all the fundamental necessities already put together and sold as a package. You have your inventory of the necessary equipment, so what's next? Before you purchase anything or begin to use your new tools, it's wise to have the basic knowledge of their function and how they work.

The fencing jacket is made with the intent of protecting the fencer. It is important to select a jacket which is both well made and provides adequate protective coverage. There is no standard minimum constraint in the US, there is a particular standard of protection in Europe, though. For tournaments which are international in scope, such as Olympic fencing, there are greater requirements.

When you are beginning, the standard costume will be more than sufficient. Your primary decision will be whether you want it in cotton or synthetic fabric. Cotton will probably be less expensive but it is heavier and warmer. Synthetic fabric is lightweight but it will cost a bit more.

The mask is used for safety so make sure you choose a mask that is equipped with enough padding, fits well and doesn't bear down on the top of your head or your chin. Although you can buy non-electric gloves, it really is worthwhile to get a glove equipped with a cuff that you can wear for electric fencing.

This cuff allows you to easily connect the body cord to an electric weapon from under the sleeve. These weapons come in all sizes, small to large, or in separate glove sizes. Picking up gloves that are individually sized will help you get a better fit, but they will also cost you more. The foil is made for thrusting, with a thin blade, and rounded (also known as foiled) tip. Foil blades are greatly flexible, able to bend upon contact with an opponent, thus preventing injuries.