Equipment Used In All Blades

Equipment Used in All Blades

The following protective equipment is used in épée, foil, and sabre. Requirements can vary by age group, club, tournament, and governing body.

Plastron

A plastron is an underarm protector worn beneath the jacket. It provides an additional protective layer on the weapon-arm side and can be a standard fabric or FIE-rated model. The basic plastron serves the same purpose in all three weapons. 

Chest Protector

A rigid chest protector is available for all three weapons. Requirements depend on the fencer’s competition level and governing body; women are generally required to wear one, while it may be optional for men.

In foil, a rigid chest protector must be worn beneath the plastron and uses an approved padded exterior layer to reduce the chance of an unintended bounce or deflection affecting a touch. Always confirm current requirements with your club, event organizer, or governing federation before competition.

Fencing Shoes and Socks

Fencing shoes—or flat-soled indoor court shoes—provide traction and lateral stability for lunges, advances, retreats, and directional changes. Dedicated fencing shoes often add reinforcement along the inside edge to withstand repetitive footwork.

Fencing socks extend to just below or above the knee so that no skin is exposed between the breeches and shoes during a lunge. Many designs include reinforced cushioning in the shin, heel, and toe, plus moisture-wicking fabric and compression support for a secure fit.