What you need to know
Embarking on the journey of acquiring fencing uniforms can be overwhelming, particularly for newcomers or parents seeking equipment for their children. Our aim is to ease the confusion and streamline the ordering process by offering a comprehensive breakdown of the essential elements.
Handedness holds significant importance in fencing, dictating the strategic placement of garment openings to favor the non-weapon arm. While adults generally have a clear understanding of their dominant hand, it becomes equally vital to determine this information when procuring fencing gear for a child.
By identifying the child’s handedness, we ensure the appropriate selection of garments that prioritise both comfort and functionality during fencing. With this knowledge, we can provide tailored recommendations to enhance their fencing experience.
Fencing is a sport steeped in tradition and one key aspect that reflects this tradition is the fencing uniform. The uniform not only serves to create a distinct visual identity but also plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of fencers during training and competitions.
Please note that while the items listed below form the foundation of your fencing equipment, additional weapon-specific components and wires are necessary. However, we address these specific requirements in other sections of the guide.
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Breeches
Breeches or, knickers are worn to protect the lower body during fencing bouts. They are constructed from robust materials and designed to allow for unrestricted movement while maintaining durability. Breeches are typically tailored to fit snugly around the waist and hips, providing comfort and flexibility for fencing work. These trousers are designed to extend just below the knee.
Browse our fencing breeches - Fencing Uniforms - Breeches (leonpaul.com)
Chest Protector
Protection is very important when fencing, it provides an additional layer of padding and protection against potential impacts from opponents’ weapons. The protector absorbs and distributes the force of hits, reducing the risk of injury and minimizing the impact on sensitive areas such as the breasts or sternum. This item in vital for women and optional for men and children.
Browse our chest protectors - Fencing Chest Protectors (leonpaul.com)
Plastron
The plastron/ underarm protector is an additional protective layer worn underneath the fencing jacket. It is made from sturdy material, usually plastic and covers the front side of the body, providing extra reinforcement for the chest and abdomen.
Browse our plastrons - Fencing Plastrons (leonpaul.com)
Jacket
The fencing jacket is a vital piece of protective gear that covers the upper body, including the torso and arms. It is typically made from durable, lightweight fabric designed to withstand the rigors of fencing. The jacket provides essential protection against potential hits from the opponent’s weapon and features specific padding in high-risk areas such as chest and shoulders. It is available in white and needs to be worn for training and fencing events.
Browse our fencing jackets - Fencing Uniforms - Jackets (leonpaul.com)
Lame (pronounced 'la-may' not 'lame')
An essential component of electric scoring in both Foil and Sabre fencing. It refers to the conductive over jacket that fencers wear to enable valid scoring during bouts. It's important to note that a lamé is not required for Epee fencing, as the entire body is considered a valid target area in this discipline.
Browse our lames - Lame Jackets (leonpaul.com)
Glove
Fencing gloves are worn to protect the hand and fingers from potential weapon hits. They are specifically designed to offer a balance between dexterity and protection, allowing fencers to maintain a firm grip on the weapon while safeguarding their hand.
Browse our fencing gloves - Fencing Gloves (leonpaul.com)
Mask (Not a helmet)
The fencing mask is an essential component of the uniform, providing protection for the head and face. It is constructed from stainless steel which can withstand the force of fencing weapon hits. The mask features a secure strap to keep it in place during intense fencing exchanges.
Browse our masks - Fencing Masks for Foil, Epee, Sabre and Coaches (leonpaul.com)
Please note that while the items listed above form the foundation of your fencing equipment, additional weapon-specific components and wires are necessary. However, we address these specific requirements in other sections of the guide.
FIE 800N / Non FIE 350N Clothing
FIE Clothing
FIE Clothing refers to the garments that complies with the regulations set by the Fédération Internationale d'Escrime (FIE), the international governing body of the sport. FIE-approved garments are designed to provide a specific level of protection, capable of withstanding a minimum penetrating force of 800 Newtons. These garments are mandatory for participation in international events and may also be required in certain countries that adhere to FIE standards.
Non-FIE 350N
Non-FIE garments, on the other hand, meet a lower level of protection, withstanding a minimum penetrating force of 350N. This standard exists in some countries to ensure a basic level of safety and accessibility to the sport.
It’s important to note that fencing regulations may vary by country, so if you are new to the sport, it is advisable to consult with your coach or national federation to determine the minimum requirements in your specific region. They can provide you with guidance on the appropriate clothing standards and regulations to ensure your safety and compliance as you embark on your fencing journey.
Minimum 350N standard
UK
France
Australia
Canada
Minimum FIE 800N standard
Italy
Germany
No minimum standard
USA
While FIE clothing may not be mandatory in all cases, it stands as the pinnacle of quality equipment in terms of safety, design, and style. We highly recommend that customers prioritize the purchase of FIE clothing due to its superior attributes. FIE-approved garments undergo rigorous testing to meet stringent safety standards, providing fencers with optimal protection during training and competitions. Moreover, FIE clothing incorporates innovative design elements and modern styles, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal. By investing in FIE clothing, fencers can confidently embrace the highest level of quality and performance available in the sport of fencing.
Have a look at our Leon Paul FIE Apex Range - FIE APEX Uniform (leonpaul.com)
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