How much does it cost to get involved in fencing?
Beginner's dry fencing setup: about $100 - $200 US
Includes: cotton jacket, glove, dry weapon, mask
FIE Competition setup: about $500 - $1000 US
Includes: FIE 800N jacket & britches, FIE 800N mask, at least
2 FIE (maraging) electric weapons, body cord, socks, glove,
shoes, lame (foil & sabre only), sensor (sabre only).
Note: costs can be as much as halved by avoiding purchasing
FIE certified clothing and arms. While such equipment is
required at national (Canada and Europe, but not USA) and
international levels of competition, most local tournaments
will overlook it. If you use a cotton or synthetic knit
jacket, however, be sure to wear a plastron underneath.
Club costs vary, but are usually on the order of $50-$100 per year
for each day per week of fencing. Many clubs will provide or rent
equipment to beginners.
Link to the next chapter: What kind of cross-training
will help my fencing?