What HEMA Gear Do Beginners Need?
Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) covers multiple weapons and training formats, so the right equipment depends on your school, weapon, ruleset, and intensity. A beginner should buy equipment in stages rather than assuming every item works for every club.
Start With Your School's Rules
Before buying protective gear or a training sword, ask your club which ratings, brands, weapon types, and protection standards it accepts. Tournament rules can differ from ordinary club practice.
Training Swords and Feders
For longsword training, many clubs use synthetic trainers, blunt steel trainers, or feders. Browse our Longswords, Feders, and Blunt & Training Swords. The correct choice depends on the drill or sparring format and your instructor's requirements.
HEMA Masks and Head Protection
A fencing mask is a core piece of protective equipment for many HEMA disciplines. Additional overlays or back-of-head protection may be required for higher-intensity training. Browse HEMA Fencing Masks and review the rating and intended use on each product page.
HEMA Gloves
Hand protection varies greatly by weapon. Light gloves may be suitable for limited applications, while longsword and heavier-contact training generally require substantially more hand protection. See our HEMA Gloves.
Jackets, Gorgets, and Body Protection
HEMA jackets add padded and puncture-resistant protection, while gorgets protect the throat and neck area. Depending on your school, you may also need forearm, elbow, knee, shin, chest, or groin protection. Browse HEMA Jackets, Gorgets, and Protective Gear.
Build a Complete HEMA Kit Gradually
Start with the equipment your school requires immediately, then add protection as your training expands. Fit matters: protective equipment that shifts, binds movement, or leaves gaps can create problems even when the product itself is well made.
Shop all HEMA gear at TRW Armory.