Chest Protectors#

Our steel trainers are designed to flex during a thrust. Most sabres flex at 7-8kg (15-17lbs) of force and a longswords at 12-16kg (26-35lbs), so you’re going to feel it. Chest protectors increase comfort (especially against stiffer swords) and also safety by providing an additional layer of defence in the case of a broken blade.

Consider your chest protector and gorget in tandem, as you don’t want these to interfere. Some chest protectors offer little upper body coverage, with the expectation your gorget will come down to fill the gap. Other chest protectors will come up closer to the neck, with the expectation that you will wear a smaller profile gorget that yields out of the way.

Recommendations#

All of the below recommended chest protectors are accepted by local tournament organizers. Just about anything will pass gear check, even “bucket tech.”

Women’s Chest Protectors#

While some fencers can get away with a flat “men’s” chest protector, women and femme-presenting fencers should investigate women’s chest protectors. A men’s chest protector has all the same problems as a “unisex” t-shirt while also being rigid, whereas women’s chest protectors are designed to accommodate different bust sizes.

MAC sells a durable cuirass-style cupless women’s chest protector which some fencers consider more comfortable. There is also a variant with moveable armhole segments and optional protective brace. Although these protectors stick out a bit, both can accommodate a sports bra.

Basic “boob armour” chest protectors also exist but are not recommended, as they’re made out of thin materials that tend to crack (“men’s” chest protectors, though also thin, are less susceptible to this due to their simpler shape). These chest protectors don’t stick out as much, but aren’t designed to work well with sports bras. If you absolutely must get this kind of chest protector, look for one with an extension plate for the stomach. PBT used to sell such a model but does not list it on their website anymore. Swordshop has a basic version which is not recommended due to its lack of rib coverage, and is included only as an example of what not to order.

A third option is a brigandine, detailed below.

Men’s Chest Protectors#

For men or fencers with fairly flat chests, a basic chest protector may be sufficient. You can get this one from North Armoury or this one from Swordshop.

If you happen to be ordering from HF Armory and need a chest protector, they’ve got one too that you can easily add to an order, as well as a larger variant with more comprehensive coverage.

If you’re looking for something more substantial, the MAC chest protector has moveable armholes and an optional protective brace.

Brigandine#

Another popular option is a brigandine. These are usually worn over the jacket and look stylish while they protect you. Whereas most chest protectors are made of one or two pieces of plastic, brigandines are a flexible canvas of plates, which some fencers find more comfortable.

You can get a brigandine from HCA. They’re not yet carried by a lot of other sellers, but that could change over time.