A successful fencer must possess a rather large variety of different items such as, an outstanding positive attitude and a whole lot of extreme patience. For the beginner, they will need a fencing mask, jacket, glove, and a practice weapon or fencing equipment. A fencing starter kit may include an epee, saber, or a foil.

Many clubs will lend you fencing gear when you are just starting and doing a beginner course. Once you complete the course, and are hooked to it, you will be encouraged to buy your own set of gear. There are two different options for a beginner.

The first option is to buy the equipment piece-wise, until you have a full set. The other option is to purchase a starter kit, these kits contain all the basic elements of fencing requirements already assemble and sold as a unit. You have a list of required items, but what do you do with it? Prior to purchasing or using your own equipment it is important to have a solid basic understanding of both capability and purpose of each item.

The fencing jacket is made with the intent of protecting the fencer. It is important to select a jacket which is both well made and provides adequate protective coverage. There is no standard minimum constraint in the US, there is a particular standard of protection in Europe, though. For tournaments which are international in scope, such as Olympic fencing, there are greater requirements.

When you are just beginning the basic equipment will more than suffice. The main choices you will be making in this regard are whether to go with cotton or synthetic materials. Cotton is heavier and hotter in use, but is also cheaper. The synthetic materials are of a lighter weight, but they are more expensive.

The mask is also for protection so be sure to select a mask that has sufficient interior padding, does not press on the top of the head or chin, and fits with ease. Even though you can purchase non-electric gloves it is almost always worth buying a glove with a cuff that can be used for electric fencing.

To easily attach the body cord to an electric weapon, use a cuff like this one. They come in all standard sizes and can also be obtained as gloves. This will give you an enhanced fit, but the cost will be higher. In order to thrust, the foil is used. It has an extremely slender blade and a round or foiled edge. When striking your adversary, the blade of the foil bows so that you do not hurt anyone.

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