Protective Gear
This is a listed of the gear needed to practice the art in a safe and proper way. We recommend to purchase from Purple Heart Armory (woodenswords.com), Sword Shop (swordshop.ca), or Absolute Fencing (absolutefencinggear.com); however, there are many other vendors to choose from. We have provided links to the gear below, but this does not mean you need to buy these specific items. It is simply our recommendations. Gear from other vendors are valid and acceptable as long as they fit protective standards. If you have any questions, reach out to an instructor.
Fencing mask
A fencing mask of at least 350N is needed. For tournaments you will need back of the head protection. This can be bought as one piece or separately. These can found here:
The mask without back of the head protection:
http://www.woodenswords.com/Absolute_Force_HEMA_Basic_Fencing_Mask_p/af.mask.basic.htm
Deluxe mask with back of the head protection:
http://www.woodenswords.com/Absolute_Force_HEMA_Basic_Fencing_Mask_p/af.mask.basic.htm
Back of the head protection:
http://www.woodenswords.com/Absolute_Force_HEMA_Mask_Cover_p/af.cover.htm
Gloves
LONGSWORD: Due to the size of the weapon and exposed hands, more protective gloves are required for Longsword classes. We recommend the following gloves:
SPES Heavy Gloves or any clamshell gloves offer the most protection:
http://www.woodenswords.com/SPES_Heavy_Gloves_V1_0_Pair_p/spes-heavy.gloves.htm
SINGLE SWORD WEAPONS: Since most single swords are lighter and often have complex guards, smaller more dexterous gloves are needed. We recommend the following gloves for most single swords:
SF HEMA Kevlar Gloves with Fingertip Protectors
Fencing Jacket
There are many many choices when it comes to fencing jackets. Some are thicker and offer more protection but lack mobility. Some are thin but lack protection. Some are priced higher and some are cheap. It is more up to the student to decide what jacket suits them. However, a 350n graded jacket is required.
LONGSWORD: Our recommendation is something similar to SwordShop’s Basic HEMA Jacket.
Single Sword: A thinner jacket is often more desired. We recommend SwordShop’s Light Jacket or Absolute Fencing’s Coaches Jacket
Gorget
Throat protection is needed underneath the jacket and mask:
http://www.absolutefencinggear.com/shopping/product_info.php/products_id/1255
Chest Protector
A chest protector is highly recommended for both classes.
Curved: http://www.woodenswords.com/product_p/p-chest.extend.women.htm
Flat: http://www.woodenswords.com/Absolute_Force_Chest_Protector_p/af.chest.htm
Protective Cup (if applicable)
A cup is required and this can be found at most sports stores or from amazon.
Forearm and Elbow Protection
The forearms and elbows are hit often and need extra protection.
We recommend these forearm and elbow protectors:
https://www.woodenswords.com/product_p/pha.f.forearm.el.std.htm
Shin and Knee Protection
We recommend these shin and knee protection:
Shoes
Shoes are also up for personal preference, but they do need to be closed and designed for athletic use.
