Gear Guide
What I actually use (and what I learned the hard way)
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Getting Started
Getting Started
When you first start fencing, you don’t need everything right away. Most clubs provide beginner gear. But as you move up, having your own equipment makes a big difference — especially for comfort and consistency.
What I Use & Recommend
What I Use & Recommend
Mask
Mask
I use a Prieur FIE Foil Mask (1600N), and one of the first things I noticed is how much lighter it feels compared to basic club masks.
It’s more comfortable during longer practices, and the balance feels better too.
If you’re upgrading, weight and padding matter more than you think.
Uniform (Jacket, Plastron, Chest Protector)
Uniform (Jacket, Plastron, Chest Protector)
I ordered my fencing uniform from PBT Fencing.
I wasn’t sure about sizing at first, but their customer service helped a lot — I sent measurements like height, weight, and arm length, and the fit turned out really good.
Important:
PBT doesn’t accept returns, so make sure to confirm your size before ordering.
Electric gear (lame, body cords, mask cords) is only needed once you start competing. Most beginners don't need this right away.
Electric gear (lame, body cords, mask cords) is only needed once you start competing. Most beginners don't need this right away.
I also use: PBT lame (electric vest)
PBT non-slip glove (this one gets recommended a lot, and I understand why)
Body cords and mask cords
The lame feels really solid and well-made, and overall PBT gear has been very reliable for me.
Where I Bought My Gear
Where I Bought My Gear
🇫🇷 Prieur (USA)
I ordered my mask from Prieur, and they also have a U.S. store, which made shipping much faster.
Prieur USA Online Store: https://www.prieurusa.com/
The mask feels noticeably lighter than beginner ones, and much more comfortable during longer practices.
🇭🇺 PBT Fencing (Hungary)
Website: https://shop.pbtfencing.com/
Ordering process (a bit different, but not hard):
Create an account
Place your order
Next day: they email you with shipping cost
Log in and complete payment
Shipping was surprisingly fast — mine arrived in about 3 days via FedEx.
The price is reasonable, and their customer service is really helpful.
What I Wouldn’t Recommend
What I Wouldn’t Recommend
Mask Bag (PBT)
Mask Bag (PBT)
The quality wasn’t great —the zipper didn’t feel smooth, and it was a bit small for the mask. It works, but I wouldn’t prioritize buying this.
Buying Gear Too Early
Buying Gear Too Early
It’s tempting to buy everything at once when you start, but I don’t think it’s necessary.
Your preferences can change pretty quickly in the beginning, so it’s better to start simple and upgrade later.
Cleaning Tips (Important but easy to miss)
Cleaning Tips (Important but easy to miss)
I learned this from reading fencing forums:
Don’t use detergent with bleach — it can damage your fencing uniform.
I use a sports detergent (unscented), and it works really well:
Removes sweat smell
Cleans stains (even small blade marks)
Gentle on fabric
You don’t need the most expensive gear to start.
But having equipment that fits well and feels comfortable makes a bigger difference than I expected.
New to fencing and not sure where to start training? Check out the Practice Roadmap.
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