Which is the right outfit for me?

There is a whole range of fencing outfits out there, and they all look the same. However, they are all very different. This article will help you figure out what sets each outfit apart and find the options that work best for you.

Sizes

Let's start with an important note. You should know that each manufacturer uses their own measurements system. Some use European (EU) sizes and some use American (US) sizes. It is important to use the size chart specific to each piece of equipment, especially since sometimes the sizes can vary from one model to the next, even within the same supplier.

Also, not all suppliers use the same cutting patterns. If you wear 44 at one supplier, it could translate to 42 or 46 at another who uses the same system, or 52 if it's another system.

When choosing the size of an outfit for a child, consider taking a size above the "perfect" size, so that he or she can grow without having to change outfits too often.

Fit

There are two important aspects to the fit of a fencing outfit. First, there are unisex cuts, men's cuts and women's cuts. For young girls, unisex or men's cuts usually fit best.

The second aspect of the fit of a fencing outfit relates to the body type of the fencer. Fits vary from manufacturer to manufacturer and each is aimed at a specific body type. For example, some offer a generic fit, while others offer a fit for tall and thin.

Some manufacturers offer more than one fit for each of their models. In this case, they have a regular cut, a tall cut (for tall people) and sometimes even a short cut (for shorter or heavier-set people).

As it is difficult to validate if a fit is suitable for you without trying on the outfit, we recommend that you consult the size chart for each model you are interested in (either on the product page or in our full size chart and to validate all the measurements available. This will help you determine if the outfit is right for your proportions.

If you have the chance, it is also possible to try on the different outfits, either at the store (book an appointment) or at our kiosk during a tournament (see our calendar).

Fabrics

Different fabrics are used in the production of fencing outfits. Most manufacturers have at least one range made of polyester or polyamide (Nylon), or a combination of both. These materials are durable, inexpensive and easy to maintain.

Jackets intended for clubs (for instensive use) are made partly or entirely of cotton, which is even more durable and less expensive than polyester, but also warmer, heavier and less elastic. In addition, cotton jackets shrink during the first washes.

Some manufacturers also use more exotic synthetic fabrics to make their high-end outfits. You can find, for example, outfits made of Dyneema or Terylene.

Each fabric has its own properties, including:

• The initial shade of white, and yellowing over time.
• Breathability
• Elasticity
• Durability
• Heat resistance (for example, when washing or during lettering)

When you shop on our site, the descriptions on the product page of each of the fencing outfits will tell you the pros and cons of each fabric.

Linings

Some jackets have liners. These linings can be absorbent (much like a sports shirt ), made of jersey or made of the same material as the jacket itself. Absorbent liners are generally appreciated by people who get very hot in their fencing gear.

Fastening

Zippers on jackets can be arranged in two ways. Either they are placed on the front of the jacket (on the left for a right-handed person and vice versa), or in the back to make it an ambidextrous jacket. Jackets with a zipper in the back are primarily designed for clubs, where the jacket will be loaned to multiple people. Usually, those who get their own outfit opt for a jacket that closes at the front.

When it comes to fencing pants, some manufacturers distinguish between right-handed and left-handed pants, but the majority only offer one type of pants. These "ambidextrous" pants are in fact right-handed. This does not really matter, as the only difference is the location of the back pocket. The majority of left-handed fencers wear "right-handed" pants, and nothing prevents a right-handed fencer from wearing left-handed pants.

Durability vs price

It goes without saying that there are various qualities at various prices. Your goal should be to find the best balance between quality, comfort, durability and price while staying within your budget.

Among the various factors that affect your need for durability, consider who will wear the outfit. If it's for a growing child, durability is much less important than if the outfit is for an adult who intends to use it for 10 years. If the outfit is worn a few hours a week, the needs are not the same as for an athlete who wears their outfit 30 hours a week.

Certification

To understand how fencing outfits are certified and to determine if it is advantageous for you to purchase an FIE outfit, refer to the article What does FIE mean?. The minimum certification required for clothing for all Quebec and Canadian national competitions is 350N. This may vary for provincial tournaments in other provinces.

Some outfits indicate that they have a resistance of 470N or 530N. This is beyond the minimum certification, but there is no intermediate certification between the 350N and the 800N. These outfits are generally of excellent quality and are very durable.

Lettering

If you eventually wish to have your outfit lettered, or to understand what this concept of lettering refers to, consult the article Jacket lettering, what are the options?.