The most important aspect of fencing is safety, which is ensured by following rules and wearing the proper protective equipment. Metro Blades does have a stock of club equipment for beginners and recent intermediates to use, including masks, jackets, and foils, but fencers are required to purchase their own equipment if joining as regular members. Proper equipment needs to be worn at all times during practice sessions. This includes:

Mask – Made from forged steel mesh, the mask protects the head and face. It should be large enough to fit over the chin, but not too big so that it falls off when bending over and shaking the head back and forth. It should be kept free of rust and checked regularly.

Jacket – Made from white cotton/polyester with double-thickness on the sword-arm side, the jacket protects the body. In addition, chest protectors for women are mandatory and come as either cups that fit into pockets in the jacket, or a full bra-like protector worn under the jacket.

Glove – The sword hand is gloved, as this hand is most prone to contact with the opponent’s blade. Note: The club does not provide gloves so all fencers, as well as participants in the beginner’s classes, are responsible for providing their own, or acceptable equivalent.

Pants – Club members and class participants must wear either fencing breeches or track pants to practice - shorts or jeans are not allowed!

Shoes – Club members and class participants must wear indoor trainers or court shoes with non-marking soles, or fencing shoes. Other shoes are not allowed.

If you’re looking to buy fencing equipment, check out the vendors in our “Links” section.