Protective Gear
This is a listed of the gear needed to practice the art in a safe and proper way. Keep in mind that most of the gear listed is for working with steel weapons. Less gear is needed for working with synthetics. We recommend to purchase from Purple Heart Armory; 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 the 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 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
Supfen Impact Resistant Gloves 2.0 work as well offering better dexterity, but are not as protective:
ONE HANDED WEAPONS: Since most one handed weapons are lighter and often have complex guards, smaller more dexterous gloves are required. We recommend the following gloves:
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. However, a 350n graded jacket is required.
LONGSWORD: Our recommendation when it comes to all these factors is HEMA Supplies’ Scholar Jacket or SwordShop’s Basic HEMA Jacket.
ONE HANDED WEAPONS: A thinner jacket is recommended. We recommend SwordShop’s Light Jacket or SwordShop’s HEMA hoodie.
Gorget
Throat protection is needed underneath the jacket and mask:
http://www.absolutefencinggear.com/shopping/product_info.php/products_id/1255
Chest Protector
This is originally designed for women; however, they are available for men as well. It optional to wear during sparring.
Women: http://www.woodenswords.com/product_p/p-chest.extend.women.htm
Men: http://www.woodenswords.com/Absolute_Force_Chest_Protector_p/af.chest.htm
Protective Cup for men
A cup is needed for all men practicing the art. This can be found at many different stores or from amazon.
Forearm and Elbow Protection
The forearms and elbows are hit often and need extra protection. These are very much so up to personal choice and can be found at all sports stores or you can buy them used at Play It Again Sports at 5811 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, MD 21704.
We recommend these forearm and elbow protectors:
Shin and Knee Protection
Just like forearm and elbow protection, shin and knee protection are up for personal choice. Shin protection is not as vital as knee protection, and knee protection is required in tournaments. You can get these at all sports stores or you can buy them used at Play It Again Sports at 5811 Buckeystown Pike, Frederick, MD 21704.
We recommend these shin and knee protection:
Shoes
Shoes are also up for personal preference. However, since we sometimes practice on mats, we recommend wrestling, fencing, or boxing shoes as well as basketball shoes. You are welcome to use any athletic shoes that are not used out on the streets so that dirt and bacteria are not brought in.
