Protective Equipment

I simplified the explanation of each of these topics.  For an indepth study of each topic please consult the documentation section of this web site for the USFA rulebook, or the bibliography of books written by much more competent instructors and authors also please consult major eqiupment providers

The Mask

After the weapons themselves, the most identifiable piece of equipment to non-fencers probably remains the mask.

Shown on the left, the current conventional wire mesh mask.   Current USFA rules require a maximum seperation of the mesh of 2.1mm, and a minum gauge of 1mm wires used in the mask's construction.  Further, the mask must withstand without deformation a 12kg pressure as well as a 1600N punch test.

The most often asked question from beginners and non fencers consists of "how do you see through it?"  Although the mesh appears blocking from a distance, when your eyes are close (inside) it becomes second nature and fencers do not even notice it. This hidden aspect of a fencers face add to the mistique of the sport but also takes the blame for making the sport "audience unfriendly". Some people claim the inability to directly see a fencer takes some of the image identification away from the sport.  As a result, FIE (the International Federation governing the sport) began requiring a new form of the mask employing clear plexiglass in place of the mesh for international competitions.

One manufacture , Zivkovic Modern Equipment Inc., began producing these masks several years ago.  Speaking with other fencers that never experienced this mask, we wonder how the clear plastic will hold up to scratching and nicking from blade contact. However, I note we never used such masks and posses no firsthand experience to backup these fears.

The mask show above meets requirements for all USFA Foil and Epee events.  However, electric Sabre masks differ slightly in that the entire mask consists of conductive metal mesh (since the entire head counts as valid target area, and must conduct for the electric scoring equipment).  Further, the bib (section of cloth covering the neck) consists of the same conductive cloth weave used in the lame (metalic vest worn to allow electronic scoring).

The Shoes

Personally, I place the mask first in equipment for a new fencer to purchase.  The comfort level achieved through a good fitting (and well washed) mask alleviates many disctractions.  Next probably the weapons, freeing the fencer from worries over equipment failures at competitions, placing that level of control within their own hands.  However, although some would argue, I felt the greatest increase in my performance after purchasing specialized fencing shoes.

Fencers use a specialized form of small, quick, precise foot movements. The standard advance/lunge requires the foot to swing forward, landing on the heel, then rolling smoothly down.  Shoes should offer the greatest traction available, to allow fencers to stop immediately with no skid, or press off their back foot into a lunge with the speed of a cobra.

Because the fencing foot stance lies asymetrically (in brief, stand with your hand preference forward.  Place this foot's toe to heel line directly toward this point.  Now place the rear foot at a 90 degree angle to the first, heels almost touching, toe pointing 90 degrees away from the other.  The torso falls into a 45 degree angle between the feet.  Bring the front foot forward so your heels are now about shoulder length apart, bender your knees into a half sqaut with your back straight and your butt in.  Your know in a very bad gaurd stance, but you get the idea.)

As a result, running shoes do not serve well.  The rear foot must apply pressure completely laterally, while the front horizontally. The best generic shoes come from cross trainers.  When the fencer wants great performance, the switch to fencing shoes. Fencing shoes consist of low weight (need to move the feet fast), good support and both lateral and horizontal strength, but most importantly, rolling heels.

Shown below notice the specialized rolled heels.

The Jacket

Under Construction

The Knickers

Under Construction

Written 9-12-99 by David K. Grant
free to distribute if :

• credit to author included

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