Blackfriar’s has partnered with Ox & Plow to provide club apparel.

 

Gear requirements

When getting started in HEMA the question of “what gear do I need and where to buy it?” is often asked. This guide is intended to help a new student who wants to move past the beginner classes.

Where to Buy

The main suppliers of HEMA gear in the United States are Purpleheart Armoury and SoCal Swords . Both carry a wide range of protective gear and weapons. Outside of the US there are other options such as Superior Fencing, however shipping costs and times can be greater.

Getting started

To progress past the beginner classes and patriciate in intermediate level classes or meetups the minimum required gear is a mask and gloves. A sword is good however there are often loaner weapons available.

Mask: The Absolute Fencing (AF) HEMA Basic Fencing Mask is an affordable and durable mask. Other options are available with various features such as removable liners and overlays. Any mask needs to be rated at 350N (or better) of puncture resistance and be made for HEMA activities.

Gloves: For light drill work any pair of padded gloves will provide protection against incidental contact and abrasions. Medium gloves (example) add more padding and some protective plates however are not suitable for actual sparring with weapons beyond a padded swords. Going straight to heavy gloves is an option for fencers planning on sparring.

Sword: A synthetic sword is an affordable option for learning techniques and partner drills. That said, it’s not a requirement to start with a synthetic. Going straight to a steel sword can save the cost of buying a synthetic to start followed by a steel. A good synthetic sword will be balanced much like a steel sword, we use Black Fencer and Purple Heart synthetics in our beginner/intermediate classes for this reason.

Sparring

To participate in sparring with steel or synthetic weapons we follow the same gear standards used at most HEMA tournaments. Here is a basic outline:

  • Head protection, including overlay to cover back of head and neck.

  • Rigid trachea protection (gorget).

  • Heavy padded jacket with at least 350N puncture rating.

  • Heavy gloves from brands such as SPES, HF Armory, or Sparring Gloves.

    • Black Dragon brand gloves are usually not permitted in a tournament. Use at own risk.

  • Hard elbow protection is required, forearm guards highly recommended.

  • Hard knee and shin protection required, padded pants or skirt recommended.

  • Genital protection such as an athletic cup.