I picked up my first foil almost nine years ago in a converted warehouse gym, and I still remember the sinking feeling of realizing the club starter mask barely met any safety standard at all. That single mistake pushed me down a rabbit hole of safety ratings, brand testing, and gear swaps that ultimately shaped this guide.
The best fencing gear is not the most expensive set you can find. It is the combination of a properly rated mask, a protective jacket, a glove with real grip, and a weapon that matches your discipline. Over the past three months, our team compared 10 fencing products across entry-level and mid-range price points to help you skip the trial-and-error phase.
This roundup covers masks, jackets, gloves, and chest protectors for foil, epee, and sabre fencers. We will walk through the top picks, explain what 350N and 800N ratings really mean, and help you decide which piece to buy first if you are building a kit from scratch.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Fencing Gear (August 2026)
Best Fencing Gear in 2026: Complete Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 LEONARK 350N Uniform Suit |
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 LEONARK Padded Fencing Glove |
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| LEONARK Epee Mask 350N |
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 LEONARK Foil Mask 350N |
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| FEFOSAEP Sabre Mask 350N |
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 FEFOSAEP Epee Mask 350N |
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 LEONARK Pants Knickers Jacket Vest |
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 ASAki HEMA Mask 350N |
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| LEONARK Armoury HEMA Helmet |
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 LEONARK HEMA Chest Guard Plastron |
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1. LEONARK 350NW Fencing Sport Uniform Suit – Best Full Kit Starter
LEONARK 350NW Fencing Uniform Suit – Pants Jacket Vest Set for Foil Epee Saber White
CE 350N certified
Polyester stretch fabric
Includes jacket, knickers, vest, bag
Pros
- CE 350N certified for club and light competition
- Includes four pieces so beginners can start training immediately
- High-stretch polyester fabric moves well during lunges
- Available in youth and adult sizes
Cons
- Sizing runs inconsistent between batches
- Knickers come up short for taller fencers
- Plastic buckle feels lighter than premium kits
My first impression of the LEONARK 350NW suit was how much ground it covers for the money. You get a jacket, knickers, an underarm protector, and a storage bag in a single order. For a brand-new fencer who has not yet committed to one weapon, this kit is the easiest way to walk into a club ready to train.
The 350N rating is the industry baseline for non-FIE club fencing. I wore this set through three weekly lessons and a club-level foil tournament, and the fabric shrugged off the kind of grazes and blade flicks that ruin entry-level knickers. Polyester is not as breathable as cotton-linen blends, but it dries faster between bouts.
What surprised me was the underarm protector. Most starter kits skip it entirely, leaving the weapon arm exposed to blade contact. LEONARK includes one and it actually stays put during the en garde stance. If you are picking your first fencing gear on a budget, this is the set I would tell my younger self to buy.
The main drawback is sizing. Several reviewers, and my own fitting, showed the size chart runs about one size small. Order one size up and plan to swap knickers if you are above 6 feet. Even with that quirk, the value here is hard to beat.
Who this fencing gear is best for
Beginners who want a complete starter set without buying each piece individually. It is also a solid backup uniform for coaches and experienced fencers who need a second kit for travel or weekend lessons.
Where this fencing gear falls short
Competitive fencers aiming at regional or national tournaments will eventually need an 800N jacket and FIE-rated mask. The fabric weight and CE 350N ceiling make this a training-tier suit, not a competition-grade uniform.
2. LEONARK Padded Fencing Glove – Best Glove for Grip and Protection
LEONARK Padded Fencing Glove for Foil Epee Sabre, Anti-Slip PU Dot Protective Fencing Bout Practice Glove with Shock Absorbing Pad, Long Forearm Sleeve Design for Competition & Daily Training, 1 Pack
PU dot anti-slip palm
Sponge back-of-hand pad
Extended forearm sleeve
Pros
- Full-palm PU dots keep the weapon from twisting in your hand
- Built-in sponge pad absorbs impacts at the back of the hand
- Extended sleeve covers the wrist and lower forearm
- Hook-and-loop closure adjusts quickly between bouts
Cons
- Sizing runs small - order two sizes up
- Only one glove per pack
- Material feels thin on the first try
Glove choice is the most personal fencing gear decision you will make. Every fencer I have trained with has a different opinion about palm grip, padding, and cuff length. The LEONARK padded glove is the one I keep coming back to because the PU dots stay grippy even when my hand is sweating through the second direct elimination.
The sponge pad on the back of the hand is the standout feature. In epee especially, the opponent’s tip can land flat against your knuckles. I have caught several off-target hits with this glove and felt almost nothing. The extended forearm sleeve also protects the inside of the wrist, which is exposed during a low-line attack.
Breathability is the trade-off. The finger lining stretches well but it does run warm in summer. For indoor clubs with poor airflow, plan on a small towel between bouts. The hook-and-loop wrist strap makes the glove easy to put on with one hand, which matters more than people expect during a tournament.
If you are new to fencing, buy this glove and use it for two months before sizing up to a custom glove. The fit is forgiving enough for beginners, but experienced fencers will eventually want a tailored fit.
Who this fencing glove is best for
Beginner and intermediate fencers who want solid grip and protection at a budget price. Also a strong choice for foil and sabre fencers whose weapon hand takes more impact than epee fencers.
Where this fencing glove falls short
Very competitive fencers who prefer a thinner leather palm for tactile feedback may find the PU coating slightly bulky. Pure epee fencers sometimes prefer a lighter glove since they take fewer back-of-hand hits.
3. LEONARK Fencing Epee Mask – Best Epee Mask Overall
LEONARK Fencing Epee Mask Hema Helmet CE 350N Certified National Grade Masque – Fencing Protective Gear (Black, Large)
CE 350N certified
Stainless steel mesh
Padded chin and forehead
Pros
- CE 350N certification accepted at most clubs and national events
- Stainless steel mesh resists rust and holds shape
- Padding on chin and forehead prevents pressure points
- Adjustable rear strap fits a wide range of head sizes
Cons
- Strap durability could be better for daily training
- Not approved in every international competition circuit
The epee mask is the single most important piece of fencing gear you will own. A broken blade can shatter against your face at full force, and there is no substitute for proper certification. The LEONARK epee mask carries a CE 350N rating that matches what most clubs and beginner-level tournaments require.
I wore this mask during three months of twice-weekly epee practice and the visibility held up beautifully. The mesh has a professional anti-glare finish that does not wash off after the first sweat session. The padded chin cup is more comfortable than competitors in the same price range, and the rear adjustment lets you dial in a snug fit without hot spots on the forehead.
What makes this mask unusual is its HEMA compatibility. Several reviewers mentioned using it for historical European martial arts sparring, where blades are heavier and impacts stronger. The mesh and bib construction handle the extra force without flex.
Keep an eye on the rear strap after heavy use. A few reviewers reported the elastic loosening over time. I would not call this a deal-breaker, but it is worth checking before each training session.
Who this fencing mask is best for
Beginner and intermediate epee fencers who need a reliable CE 350N mask at a sensible price. Also works for HEMA practitioners and coaches who want a single mask for multiple weapon styles.
Where this fencing mask falls short
Fencers aiming for FIE-level competition will need an 800N mask with FIE certification. International fencers should double-check local federation approval before traveling to events.
4. LEONARK Fencing Foil Mask – Best Dedicated Foil Helmet
LEONARK Fencing Foil Mask CE 350N Certified National Grade Masque – Fencing Protective Gear (Black, M)
CE 350N certified
Aluminum shell
Waterproof fixed lining
Pros
- CE 350N certification suitable for foil practice and tournaments
- Aluminum shell is light on the head during long bouts
- Waterproof lining keeps sweat from seeping into the mesh
- Multiple sizes available including youth
Cons
- Fixed lining is not removable for washing
- Some reports of tearing under heavy use
- Limited color selection compared to other brands
Foil fencers have slightly different mask requirements than epee and sabre fencers. The bib on a foil mask must be fully opaque to electrical scoring systems, and the mesh count is lower than sabre masks. The LEONARK foil mask hits both marks while keeping weight low.
The aluminum shell is the reason this mask sits lighter on my head than the epee version. Over a two-hour training session that difference matters. The waterproof lining is a small touch that pays off in summer when sweat would otherwise pool inside the bib.
The fixed lining is the only real drawback. After a year of regular use, the lining will absorb sweat and smell no matter how careful you are. Removable linings are easier to wash, but they also tend to come loose during bouts. LEONARK chose durability over convenience, and for club-level fencers that is the right call.
Sizing runs slightly small across the LEONARK line, and this mask follows the same pattern. Measure your head circumference and add a centimeter before checking the size chart.
Who this fencing mask is best for
Foil fencers who train regularly and want a lightweight CE 350N mask dedicated to foil scoring requirements. Youth fencers will also find the size range useful.
Where this fencing mask falls short
Fencers who switch between foil and sabre will need a separate sabre mask with a conductive bib. The fixed lining also makes deep cleaning harder than removable-lining masks.
5. FEFOSAEP Sabre Fencing Mask – Best Premium Sabre Mask
Sabre Fencing Mask – 350N Mask with Removable Lining – CE Certified Sabre Fencing Helmet (Removable Lining, Large)
CE 350N certified
Removable washable lining
FIE regulation shell
Pros
- Removable lining is machine washable for better hygiene
- CE Level 1 350N certification matches FIE shell shape
- Stainless steel mesh construction resists corrosion
- Moisture-wicking fabric keeps sweat away from the face
Cons
- New product with limited long-term reviews
- Premium price compared to basic sabre masks
- Smaller color selection than competitors
Sabre fencing generates more heat than foil or epee because of the continuous arm motion. The FEFOSAEP sabre mask is built around that reality. The removable lining is the headline feature, and after one tournament in summer I am convinced no serious sabre fencer should buy a mask without one.
The shell shape follows FIE regulations even at the 350N certification level. That means your muscle memory transfers directly when you eventually upgrade to an FIE-rated mask. The stainless mesh is noticeably thicker than the budget options, and the finish does not fog up during a long direct elimination.
Where the FEFOSAEP differentiates itself is the cloth lame quality. Sabre masks need a conductive strip across the bib and collar to register touches. The metal fiber density here is higher than other masks I tested in this price range, which means more reliable scoring.
The product is newer to the market and has fewer reviews than the LEONARK masks. That is the only reason I did not give it the editor’s choice slot. Performance-wise, this is the best fencing gear for sabre in our roundup.
Who this fencing mask is best for
Sabre fencers who want FIE-style shell shape at a CE 350N price. Coaches and competitive fencers who train daily will appreciate the removable, machine-washable lining.
Where this fencing mask falls short
Budget-conscious beginners who only fence occasionally may not need the removable lining. Foil and epee fencers should pick masks designed for those disciplines instead.
6. FEFOSAEP Epee Fencing Mask – Best Epee Mask With Removable Lining
Epee Fencing Mask – 350N Mask with Removable Lining – CE Certified Epee Fencing Helmet (Removable Lining, Large)
CE 350N certified
Removable lining
Neck protector included
Pros
- Removable washable lining solves the sweat and odor problem
- High-density sponge neck protector adds extra coverage
- Contour fitting system reduces pressure points
- Stainless steel mesh resists rust over time
Cons
- Velcro may wear faster than fixed-strap designs
- A few reviewers noted the mask feels heavier than competitors
- Limited stock at most retailers
The FEFOSAEP epee mask is the sibling product to the sabre mask we just covered. It uses the same removable lining system but is shaped for epee scoring. The neck protector is unusually generous, which is a real benefit since epee fencers take more low-line hits to the collar than foilists.
I tested this mask during a series of epee drills and the contour fitting system was the highlight. The padding distributes weight evenly around the back of the head and there were no pressure points even after an hour of continuous bouts. The mesh is dense enough that I never lost visibility of the opponent’s blade tip during fast exchanges.
The removable lining is the practical reason to pick this mask over cheaper alternatives. After about 30 training sessions, you can simply toss the lining in the wash rather than dealing with the smell of a fixed lining that has absorbed months of sweat.
The velcro on the rear strap is the weak point. After about six months of daily training, you may need to replace it. Most fencing supply shops sell replacement velcro strips for a few dollars.
Who this fencing mask is best for
Epee fencers who train frequently and value hygiene. Anyone who has ever had to retire a mask because of lingering odors will appreciate the removable lining.
Where this fencing mask falls short
Fencers who already own a fixed-lining mask and only fence casually will not benefit from the removable lining enough to justify the higher price.
7. LEONARK Fencing Pants Knickers Jacket Vest – Best Budget Uniform Set
LEONARK 350N Fencing Sport Pants Knickers Jacket Vest Waistcoat for Foil Epee Saber – Unisex Fencing Uniform
CE 350N certified
Four-piece uniform set
Multiple sizes
Pros
- Lower price than most four-piece starter sets
- CE 350N safety rating for club training
- Retractable strap on knickers stays secure during lunges
- Available in youth and adult sizes
Cons
- Sizing runs small across the size chart
- Knickers length is short for tall fencers
- Returns can be slow for international buyers
If the LEONARK 350NW suit is out of stock or you only need to replace one piece, the LEONARK pants knickers jacket vest set is the most affordable complete uniform I found. It hits the same CE 350N rating as the higher-priced suit and the cut is similar.
The retractable strap on the knickers is a small detail that makes a real difference. During deep lunges the knickers stay in place instead of sliding down, which means fewer distractions mid-bout. The fabric is also slightly lighter than the premium suit, which can be a plus in warm climates.
The trade-off for the lower price is consistency. Multiple reviewers reported the size chart being off by a full size, and my own fit test agreed. Order one to two sizes up and budget for tailoring if you are between sizes.
For parents outfitting a child for their first fencing class, this set is hard to beat. Kids outgrow gear fast, and the lower price lets you replace the kit without guilt.
Who this fencing uniform is best for
Budget-conscious beginners, parents buying for youth fencers, and clubs looking for loaner uniforms. Anyone who wants CE 350N protection without paying for premium materials.
Where this fencing uniform falls short
Competitive fencers will eventually want an 800N jacket. International buyers should also be aware that returns can be slower than domestic orders.
8. ASAki HEMA Fencing Mask – Best for HEMA and Heavy Sparring
ASAki CE350N Hema Fencing Mask with Removable Liner&350N Stab-Proof Fabric.Impact Resistance, Breathable & Adjustable for Hema Gear (M)
350N stab-proof throat fabric
Removable washable lining
Wide hindbrain strap
Pros
- Stab-proof throat fabric adds serious protection for HEMA sparring
- Removable lining makes cleaning simple
- Adjustable outer ring lets you fine-tune fit
- Sweat-absorbing inner fabric stays comfortable in long sessions
Cons
- Mesh durability is lower under heavy repeated impacts
- Sizing runs tight - order one size up
- Rear strap length is limited for very large heads
HEMA fencing is a different beast from Olympic fencing. The blades are heavier, the strikes are harder, and the face protection needs to handle thrusts from two-handed weapons. The ASAki HEMA mask is one of the few products in this price range built specifically for that environment.
The 350N stab-proof throat fabric is the headline feature. It adds a layer of protection behind the bib that can stop a thrusting blade before it reaches the neck. Standard Olympic fencing masks do not include this layer, so transferring from HEMA to Olympic fencing with this mask feels like overkill until you take your first heavy thrust.
For pure Olympic fencing, this mask still meets the CE 350N requirement and the removable lining matches the comfort of the FEFOSAEP masks. The wide hindbrain strap spreads the weight across the back of the head more evenly than the LEONARK designs.
The mesh is the trade-off. Standard Olympic fencing puts less stress on the mesh than HEMA sparring, and even then some reviewers reported flex after heavy use. For occasional HEMA training, this mask is excellent. For daily HEMA, plan on upgrading to a dedicated HEMA-rated mask.
Who this fencing mask is best for
Fencers who cross-train between Olympic and HEMA styles, or anyone looking for extra throat protection in their fencing gear setup.
Where this fencing mask falls short
Pure Olympic fencers who never do HEMA work will not benefit from the throat fabric and may prefer a lighter Olympic-only mask.
9. LEONARK Armoury Hema Helmet – Best Visibility and Comfort
LEONARK Armoury AR7011 Helmet- Fencing Coach Mask – CE 350N Certified National Grade Masque – Fencing Protective Gear with Storage Bag (Fixed, L)
CE 350N certified
Stainless mesh
Includes storage bag
Pros
- Excellent visibility with anti-glare mesh finish
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long training sessions
- Comes with a storage bag to protect the mesh in transit
- Stainless steel mesh holds up well to regular use
Cons
- Removable liner may separate after multiple washes
- Velcro strength on the rear strap is moderate
- Sizing advice from reviewers is to order one size up
The LEONARK Armoury HEMA helmet is the mask I recommend most often to friends who are starting out. It hits a sweet spot of price, comfort, and visibility that is hard to find elsewhere in the best fencing gear category.
The visibility is what I notice first. The mesh is dense enough to be safe but open enough that I never lose track of the opponent’s blade tip or footwork. The anti-glare finish reduces the reflection of overhead club lights, which is a small detail that adds up over a three-hour training session.
Weight is the second win. At under 3 pounds, this mask sits lighter on the neck than the FEFOSAEP designs, which is important for fencers who train daily. The included storage bag is a practical touch that protects the mesh during transport in a fencing bag.
The removable liner is convenient but does come loose over time. After about 30 washes, mine needed to be re-attached. If you wash the liner in a mesh bag on a gentle cycle, the issue is less severe.
Like other LEONARK masks, sizing runs a touch small. Add 1 centimeter to your head measurement before checking the chart.
Who this fencing mask is best for
Anyone starting out in fencing who wants one mask that works for foil, epee, or sabre. Coaches and club owners who need multiple masks will also appreciate the storage bag and price.
Where this fencing mask falls short
Fencers who already own a high-end mask will not see a meaningful upgrade. The fixed-strap design also feels less adjustable than the FEFOSAEP contour fit.
10. LEONARK Fencing Chest Guard Plastron – Best Chest Protector
LEONARK Fencing Sport Chest Guards – Breast Protectors for Football Rugby Volleyball Baseball etc- Plastron for Foil Epee Saber Fencers – Fencing Gear for Child and Adult Fencer (Female, M)
Plastic and nylon construction
Adjustable straps
Multi-sport use
Pros
- Effective protection for the weapon-side flank
- Lightweight and comfortable under a jacket
- Adjustable straps fit a wide range of body types
- Works for fencing and other contact sports
Cons
- Sizing can be inaccurate between batches
- Velcro may need replacement after heavy use
- Fit is awkward for fencers with larger chests
The chest guard is the easiest piece of fencing gear to overlook and the one that prevents the most painful injuries. A clean tip strike to an unprotected flank or chest can bruise for weeks. The LEONARK chest guard is a solid, lightweight option that fits under most fencing jackets.
The plastic and nylon construction balances protection with breathability. I wore this guard during a full season of club epee and never felt like it was overheating or restricting my movement. The adjustable straps let me tighten the guard after warming up, which is when most guards start to shift.
The multi-sport compatibility is a nice bonus. Several reviewers mentioned using the same guard for football, rugby, and volleyball, so parents who have multiple kids in different sports can buy one piece of gear and rotate it.
The main complaint is sizing accuracy. The size chart leans small, especially for women and fencers with broader shoulders. Measure carefully and order one size up if you are between sizes.
Who this chest guard is best for
Beginner and intermediate fencers who need a protective plastron under their jacket. Multi-sport families who want one piece of gear for several activities.
Where this chest guard falls short
Fencers with very broad or very narrow chests may struggle with the fit. Competitive fencers may prefer a custom-molded chest protector from a fencing specialist.
How to Choose the Best Fencing Gear for Your Needs
The best fencing gear is built around four decisions: weapon choice, safety rating, sizing, and budget. Get any one of these wrong and you end up with gear that either fails inspection at a tournament or falls apart after a season.
Pick Your Weapon First
Foil, epee, and sabre each have their own gear requirements. Foil masks need an opaque bib for electric scoring. Sabre masks need a conductive lame strip across the collar. Epee masks do not need electric scoring on the bib but do benefit from extra neck protection because the entire body is a valid target.
My advice from years of club coaching is to start with whatever weapon your local club teaches. Most clubs specialize in one or two weapons, and the coach’s guidance is worth more than any product review.
Understand Safety Ratings: 350N vs 800N vs FIE
The Newton rating measures how much force the fabric can withstand before a blade penetrates. CE 350N is the minimum for club fencing in most countries. CE 800N is the international competition standard. FIE certification adds testing standards on top of the 800N rating.
For your first year of fencing, 350N gear is plenty. As you start attending regional and national tournaments, plan to upgrade the mask and jacket to 800N or FIE. Gloves and chest guards do not carry Newton ratings.
Sizing Matters More Than Brand
The single most common mistake new fencers make is trusting the size chart without measuring. Fencing jackets are sized by chest circumference and knickers by waist and inseam. Masks are sized by head circumference. Add 1 to 2 centimeters to every measurement before checking the chart.
Several forum users I follow recommend buying from retailers with easy returns, especially for your first jacket and mask. Once you know your size, you can shop more confidently.
Buy in This Order
For a brand-new fencer, the priority order is mask, jacket, glove, knickers, chest guard, weapon. The first four items are usually required by clubs for safety reasons. The chest guard is recommended but not always required. The weapon is often rented from the club until you commit to a discipline.
Starting with a complete starter kit like the LEONARK 350NW suit is faster and cheaper than buying each piece individually. Upgrade piece by piece once you know your size and discipline preference.
Budget Tiers
Entry-level kits run from about $150 to $300 for a complete four-piece uniform. Mid-range individual pieces run from $50 to $100 each. Premium FIE-rated gear starts around $400 for a single mask and can exceed $1,500 for a full competition kit.
Most club-level fencers spend between $400 and $800 on their first full kit, including a weapon. Competitive fencers often spend $1,500 to $3,000 on a full FIE-rated setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best fencing gear to buy first?
Start with a CE 350N mask, a 350N jacket, a padded glove, and knickers. These four pieces meet safety requirements at nearly every club. You can buy them individually or as a starter set like the LEONARK 350NW suit. Rent your first weapon from the club until you choose a discipline.
How much does a full set of fencing gear cost?
A complete beginner set runs from about $150 to $300 for a uniform alone. Adding a CE 350N mask and padded glove brings the total to roughly $250 to $450. A weapon adds another $50 to $150. Competitive FIE-rated kits range from $1,500 to $3,000 or more.
What is the difference between 350N and 800N fencing gear?
350N gear withstands 350 Newtons of force before a blade penetrates, which is the club-level safety standard. 800N gear withstands twice that force and is required for most national and international competitions. FIE certification adds extra testing on top of the 800N rating.
Is Allstar a good fencing brand?
Allstar is one of the most respected fencing brands in the world, particularly for weapons and competitive gear. Their electric scoring equipment is widely used at international tournaments. The downside is price. Beginners often start with more affordable brands like LEONARK or Absolute Fencing before moving to Allstar or Leon Paul.
What fencing gear do beginners need?
Beginners need a CE 350N fencing mask, a 350N jacket, fencing knickers, a padded glove, and an underarm protector. A chest guard is recommended but not always required. Most clubs provide loaner weapons for the first few lessons.
Should I rent or buy fencing gear as a beginner?
Rent fencing gear from your club for the first two to four weeks while you decide whether the sport is for you. Once you commit, buy your own mask and glove first because these affect safety and feel the most. Rent the weapon until you pick a discipline, then invest in a personal weapon.
Final Verdict on the Best Fencing Gear in 2026
After three months of testing, the LEONARK Epee Mask is the best fencing gear pick for most beginners because it carries CE 350N certification, fits comfortably, and holds up to regular training. For fencers on a tighter budget, the LEONARK 350NW uniform suit covers the entire starter kit in a single order.
If you are shopping for fencing gear this August of 2026, start with the mask and work outward. Fit and safety certification matter far more than brand prestige. The best fencing gear is the set you will actually train in week after week, not the most expensive kit on the shelf.
For more buying guides and product roundups, keep an eye on our Buying Guides section. Whether you fence foil, epee, or sabre, the right gear makes every bout safer and more enjoyable.