Shoes: special Adidas fencing shoes, white soled squash trainers or similar.

Socks: special fencing socks are not required unless you chose to purchase breeches- see below.

Trousers: Comfortable trousers or track suit trousers. Special fencing breeches are not required.

Shirt: tee shirt or similar.

Protective jacket: the level of protection offered by the jacket is denoted by its Newton impact rating. The higher the rating the higher the level of protection and the price. High level of protection is not required in the Salle d’Armes, however the more expensive jackets are usually more comfortable and longer lasting. Ladies’ jackets have a different cut to men’s’ jackets.

Breast protectors: for ladies only. To be fitted under the protection jacket.

Glove: a special protection glove (Epee leather glove 350 Newton or similar) is worn on the hand holding the weapon. If you are right handed you would need only one right hand glove, if left handed, one left hand glove.

Protection mask: insulated 1600 Newton FIA epee mask or similar. Do not purchase Electric Sabre mask. ‘Leon Paul’ have introduced a new semi- transparent mask.

Weapon: the predominant weapon used in the Salle d’Armes is the epee. Available blades, their quality and balance vary greatly, not only between different manufacturers but also within a single range. If you have no experience with swords or fencing, it is advisable to ask the fencing master to select a weapon for you.

The epee should be fitted with depressible point, like an electric epee, but with the epee guard socket removed. The epee guard should be the lightest available, fitted with epee cushion. Only rubber or leather French grip may be used at the Salle d’Armes- specify right or left hand. Orthopaedic or pistol grip may not be used.

Fencing bag: is not required. Equipment may be left at the Salle d’Armes at owner’s risk.

Ensure all your equipment is comfortable and allows freedom of movement.

Soudet-Prieur: 76 Bd. Richard Lenoir 75011 Paris, France Tel 33 1 43 14 33 15 Fax 33 1 43 14 33 16

One of the world’s leading retailers and manufacturers.

Leon Paul: Unit 1 & 2 cedar way, Camley street, London NW1 Tel 020 7388 8132

A famous British manufacturer and retailer.

Duellist: 256 Twickenham Road, Isleworth, London, TW7 7DT Tel/Fax 020 8892 3775 Mob.0956329968

Excellent specialist supplier of fencing equipment.