Getting Started The Sport Most people don't understand the sport so to help students and parents we've included an overview of the three different weapons and how the sport is played. Click here to download the pdf file. For a Parent's Guide to Fencing, courtesy of fencing.net, click here. The Equipment Fencing does require some specialized equipment. Unfortunately, you won't find it in a general sporting goods store. You must either go to a fencing supplier or order through the mail. Lucklily, there are three fencing suppliers in Northern New Jersey and some in New York City. Most of the manufacturers and retailers also have web sites. Go to our links page to see more. Fencing is scored with electrical equipment competitively. Electrical equipment is more expensive and unnecessary for beginning students. Most of the fencing suppliers have specially priced starter kits of non-electrical equipment, and often these can save you money. Here is a list of items that you need to get started: Mask $75-100 It is important to get a good mask. Prieur, Allstar, Uhlmann, Soudet, Negrini all make high quality masks. Glove $15 An inexpensive glove is fine. Don't bother with expensive washable ones. Weapon $25-35 Foil, Epee, or Sabre Buy a non-electric weapon and try to avoid plastic grips. Jacket $30-45 A front zip is easier to put on than a back zip but must be purchased in either a right or left-handed model. These come in cotton or stretch nylon. Remember that cotton shrinks. Plastron $20 This is a chest and arm protector worn under the jacket. Knickers $30 Knickers are either cotton or stretch nylon. You'll probably want the same material as your jacket. Equipment Bag $30 A specialized bag to put everything in. Not essential, but very useful. Other items that you will need but that you probably already have: Sneakers White Knee Socks Click here to download an expanded pdf version of this information.