Gear for Historical Fencing Classes in Port Townsend, WA

Uniform

Nathan Barnett, fencing instructor Yes, we prefer white button-down shirt, black pants or skirt. Tie, pocket watch, both optional. All skin covered. Don’t have such stuff, don’t sweat it. Work towards getting there so we look less like a bunch of oddballs playing in the park, if that’s possible.

Protective gear

Disclaimer: I haven’t tried all of these and quality tends to shift over time and with manufacturers. Safety is important, even if I tend to be flip in class. Gear up for better training.

Mask

Disclaimer: I don’t know the difference between these, but I’d tend to go upscale for masks. You only get one head):

A mask ($100)
Another mask ($75)

Arms “Vambraces”

I’ve often got a couple loaners. You only need right, but left is good to have.
Leather do-it-yourself vambraces are fine. Go thick for fewer bruises
Fancy plastic vambraces ($60)

Gloves

Any darn hardware store work glove is fine for starters
Leather gauntlets with Kevlar over fingers/forearm
Non-reinforced leather gauntlets

Protection

Men are strongly encouraged to wear cups. I’m not going to check. Your stuff, your call
Women are strongly encouraged to wear a plastron. Example: https://www.leonpaulusa.com/clothing/chest-protectors.html I can’t offer specific guidelines, but seems smart.