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Protective and Electric Equipment
While the weapon is the most important component, several fencing gears are necessary for protection and safety. The mask is crucial as it covers the front and sides of the head. It is made of metal wire mesh. The heavy fabric below the mask is the bib which protects the neck. Jackets are made of heavy cotton denim or Kevlar similar to bulletproof jackets. The gloves protect the hands and provide a better grip on the weapon. The plastron (underarm protector) is an undershirt or vest worn underneath the jacket. A chest protector is a molded, durable hard plastic breastplate. Knickers are short fencing pants with suspenders. Long-padded socks and fencing shoes finish off the fencing attire. For most competitions, one needs to fence electric to keep scores. Thus, special electric equipments are needed. Lames are jackets with metal wires that conduct electricity signaling the scoring system to differentiate on and off target hits. Body wires are used to connect the fencer's weapon and lame to the reels. Fencers attach their body wires to cords that can be pulled back and then spooled on a reel. Scoring boxes notify the judge to stop play or assist him to determine valid hits. The piste is the metal strip that indicates the playing area. |
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