Fencing is one of the first games introduced in the Olympic Games since its debut in 1896. It is a combat sport involving two individuals with a swordlike weapon, hence the use of protective gear by fencers.
The gloves are an integral part of the fencing kit.
1. What types of fencing gloves are there?
In fencing, there are two types of gloves. There are the sabre gloves used by sabre fencers and gloves used by foil and epee fencers. The latter encompasses all other standard fencing gloves except sabre gloves.
2. What are FIE requirements for fencing gloves?
Like every sport, there is a governing body that establishes rules and restrictions to ensure fairness and safety in a sport.
The FIE (Federate International Escrime) is the governing body of the Olympic sport of Fencing on a global position.
The introductory FIE requirement for a fencing glove is that the sleeve must cover roughly half the forearm of the contender’s brand arm, to prevent the opponent’s blade from entering the sleeve of the jacket. Secondly, by no means should there be an opening in the hand of the glove, even to enable the passage of the body wire.
Lastly, the closure of the glove should be from the center of the wrist upwards towards the thumb.
3. What materials are made for fencing gloves
There is a ton of diversity with gloves, especially in fabric and structure.
Basic gloves are usually made of thin fabric (usually polyester) because it is comfortable when worn for the first time. However, the thin fabric is flexible but not durable.
Others are made of synthetic leather, natural leather, and synthetic fibers (Dyneema). These are a lot thicker and tough, but not as comfortable when worn for the first time.
There is a wide variety of exotic materials like Neoprene, Kevlar, carbon fiber, and rubber (Rubber dots line the palm and inside of the glove to provide more grip).
4. Why do you need fencing gloves?
Hands tend to get struck more often than other parts of the body. It is popular for fencers to handle bruises on the knuckles and wrists, regardless of the fencing weapon used.
A fencing glove safeguards the weapon hand, reduces the impact of an opponent's attacks, and also provides a good grip.
5. Do fencing gloves have to be white?
Fencers often used white gloves, which fed into the assumption that fencing gloves must be white.
It was mandatory to wear white in the early years of fencing but it is no longer obligatory.
Among various fencing brands in the market, the Bout15 gloves stand out.
It is a fencing glove made for players who prioritize ultimate control over their blades. The anti-slip coating on its exterior provides a strong grasp of the weapon.
The gloves ensure that the player’s hands are safeguarded and are as comfortable as possible. Made with Alcantex and breathable fabric, the player can wear the fencing glove for a long time without getting sweaty. The dotted rubber (Anti-slip design) improves the grip and provides sharp point control.
