Fencing is an Olympic sport with a long tradition of safety and fairness. Unlike casual costume swords, fencing weapons are designed to flex and bend, and the clothing worn by fencers is built to withstand puncture and impact. Over the years, standards bodies have defined specific safety levels to ensure that equipment can handle the stresses of the sport. This guide explains what those safety ratings mean, how they are tested and who sets the rules, and highlights what is required for competitions in the United States.
Governing Bodies and Safety Standards
Several organizations influence fencing equipment standards:
- Fédération Internationale d’Escrime (FIE) – the sport’s international governing body. FIE rules require clothing material to resist punctures from at least 800N of force and specify protective levels for gloves and masks. FIE‑approved gear is mandatory at World Cups, World Championships and the Olympics.
- European standard EN 13567 – defines two clothing protection levels: CEN Level 1 (350N) and CEN Level 2 (800N). For masks, it sets Level 1 (350–400N) and Level 2 (1600N) ratings for the fabric bib.
- USA Fencing – the national federation in the United States. USA Fencing generally follows FIE technical rules but allows lower‑rated (non‑FIE) gear for domestic tournaments.
Understanding Newton Ratings
Protective clothing and masks are tested using a high‑speed puncture machine. The Newton (N) value measures how much force a piece of fabric can withstand before being pierced. A higher number means greater resistance. For example, Level 1 clothing must resist at least 350N, while Level 2 clothing must withstand 800N.
Clothing Safety Levels: 350N vs 800N
Fencers wear a jacket and breeches (pants) that protect the torso and legs. The main safety categories are:
350N (CEN Level 1)
This rating is common for beginner and club‑level gear. The fabric is tested to resist 350N of force. Level 1 clothing is accepted at most local and regional competitions in the U.S. and is less expensive and lighter than FIE gear. However, it provides less puncture protection than Level 2 clothing and is not permitted at FIE‑sanctioned events.
800N (CEN Level 2 / FIE)
FIE regulations require clothing to withstand 800N or more. These jackets and breeches are typically made from multiple layers of ballistic nylon or Kevlar‑like fabrics and are more durable. They are mandatory for international competitions and provide greater peace of mind for serious athletes. Fencing Club’s clothing collection includes both 350N and 800N options.
Plastrons (Underarm Protectors)
A plastron is an extra layer worn under the jacket on the sword arm. USA Fencing requires plastrons for all tournaments. They are available in 350N or 800N ratings; the higher‑rated plastrons pair with 800N jackets for FIE events.
Mask Safety Levels and the 12kg Punch Test
Fencing masks protect the head and neck. All competition masks must pass a 12kg punch test, where a spring‑loaded tester delivers 12kg of force to the mesh to ensure it does not collapse. The main differences lie in the bib (the padded cloth covering the throat):
350–1000N Bibs (CEN Level 1)
Non‑FIE masks often have a bib rated for 350N (some manufacturers offer 400–1000N). They are suitable for club fencing and most U.S. competitions. However, they are not allowed at international tournaments.
1600N Bibs (CEN Level 2 / FIE)
FIE‑approved masks feature a 1600N bib and use high‑grade stainless steel mesh. This level of protection is required for World Cups, World Championships and Olympics, and is recommended for advanced fencers and for travel to international competitions. The bib rating applies only to the cloth; the metal mesh itself is tested via the punch test.
To determine a mask’s rating, look for a label on the metal strip near the back. Level 1 masks may say “350N,” whereas Level 2 masks may say “1600N” or “FIE.” Some brands differentiate via colored padding (e.g., blue padding for Level 1 and black padding for Level 2). You can explore Fencing Club’s range of FIE and non‑FIE masks in the complete masks collection.
Gloves
Fencing gloves protect the weapon hand and are tailored to each weapon:
- Foil and Épée – Standard gloves cover half the forearm and are often rated around 350N. They must be free of holes and cannot be taped.
- Sabre – Because sabre includes cutting actions, the glove must provide more protection. FIE rules require 800N protection on specific areas of the glove, 200N strength on seams and 350N on the cuff. USA Fencing enforces the 800N sabre glove requirement at all levels.
A manchette (over‑glove) made of conductive material is worn over the sabre glove to register hits. Gloves sold by Fencing Club meet the relevant protection standards.
Weapons and Blades: FIE vs Non‑FIE
While clothing and masks protect you, the weapon itself also has safety considerations. FIE‑approved blades are made from maraging steel, a specially heat‑treated alloy that endures more bending cycles and is less likely to snap. Non‑FIE blades are typically high‑carbon steel; they are lighter and cheaper but wear out faster. At FIE events, maraging blades are mandatory, but in U.S. domestic competitions non‑FIE blades are permitted.
Parents of young fencers often ask whether their child needs an FIE blade. For youth fencers, heavier maraging blades may be harder to control, and a standard blade is usually adequate until they reach higher‑level events. Browse Fencing Club’s complete weapons and blades collections to see both FIE and non‑FIE options.
Additional Protective Gear
- Chest Protectors – Required for women and optional for men. USA Fencing rules stipulate that foil chest protectors must have a soft EVA foam layer on the outside.
- Socks and Shoes – Knee‑high socks covering the legs are mandatory. Fencing shoes provide grip and lateral support but are not rated by Newton value.
USA Fencing Equipment Requirements
For domestic tournaments (local, divisional, regional and national competitions) in the United States, the rules are slightly different than at FIE events:
- Uniforms: Standard (non‑FIE) jackets and pants are acceptable. Uniforms must be clean and free of holes or tears, and warming‑up pants are prohibited.
- Plastrons: Required for every fencer.
- Sabre Gloves: 800N gloves are mandatory at all levels.
- Masks: Must pass the 12kg punch test, have a conductive bib for foil, and feature an elastic strap to prevent the mask from falling off.
- Chest Protectors: Required for women; foil chest protectors must have a soft external layer.
- Weapons: Two working weapons and two body cords (plus mask cords for foil and sabre) must be brought to a competition. Non‑FIE blades are acceptable for U.S. events.
Names on uniforms are only required at national championships, NACs, the July Challenge and Junior Olympics. When in doubt, consult your tournament’s information packet or the USA Fencing rulebook.
Choosing the Right Gear
Selecting fencing equipment depends on your experience level, goals and budget:
- Beginners and Recreational Fencers: 350N clothing and masks with 350–1000N bibs offer adequate protection at a lower cost. These items are suitable for most club practices and local tournaments.
- Competitive and International Fencers: If you plan to fence internationally or attend events that require FIE gear, invest in 800N jackets and breeches, 1600N masks and maraging blades. These items last longer and provide the highest level of protection.
- Youth Fencers: Lighter, non‑FIE blades are often easier to manage for younger athletes. Upgrade as they advance toward higher‑level competitions.
Gear Up with Confidence
Fencing gear safety levels exist to protect athletes while allowing the sport’s speed and precision to shine. Whether you are just starting out or preparing for an international event, choose equipment that matches your needs and complies with the appropriate standards. Investing in the right gear not only keeps you safe but also builds confidence on the piste.
Fencing Club offers a full range of jackets, breeches, masks and weapons for all skill levels. Explore our clothing collection, complete masks, complete weapons, and blades to find gear that meets the safety standards discussed in this guide. Our knowledgeable team can help you select the perfect equipment so you can fence confidently and safely.
