New students do not need to worry about bringing equipment: we can supply anything necessary until you start to acquire your own kit.
All students must wear a t-shirt and tracksuit bottoms or similar. No jeans or shorts.
This is a list of the protective equipment you will eventually need. Much of this can be purchased from PBT UK, though we recommend you discuss with an instructor first. Discuss purchasing weapon simulators as we have a list of preferred suppliers.
Weapons must be approved by a senior instructor, no exceptions. All weapons must be tipped, clean, serviceable and free from nicks and burrs.
You will see reference to 350N, 800N, etc. This means that the clothing has been tested to withstand at least 350 Newtons of force.
Protective Equipment
Mask, 1600N, Black. Mandatory. A back-of-head protector is strongly recommended.
Padded Jacket, 350N or greater. Mandatory.
You will need a more padded jacket for sidesword than for rapier, though we recommend you discuss your specific needs with an instructor. We don’t care about the colour or style, though most go for black. You go for it. Just make sure you’re wearing a club patch.
Breeches, 350N or greater. Optional, though you’ll have to get them if you want to compete.
Same advice on padding, etc. as for the jacket.
Gloves. Mandatory
Padded for sidesword (Red Dragon or similar), normal fencing gloves for rapier. We recommend protective finger inserts when using any weapon (including shell hilt daggers) other than a cup hilt rapier. Red Dragon gloves and finger inserts are available from the Knight Shop
Groin Guard. Mandatory, regardless of gender
Throat Protection (gorget). Mandatory.
Must fit inside the jacket.
Plastic Chest Protector. Mandatory.
Elbow and Forearm Guards. Optional, though mandatory for competition.
Shin / Knee Guards. Mandatory, though light ones are suitable for rapier.
Shoes and socks are Mandatory. There cannot be any exposed skin.
© The Renaissance Sword Club
The Renaissance Sword Club is a martial arts club teaching sword fighting and historical fencing classes and lessons in Surrey and Berkshire.