2026 UPDATE: While a fencing mask and proper gloves are still considered the bare minimum for Lightspeed fencing, elbow guards and shin guards are now considered mandatory for sparring as well as competition. Here’s everything you need:

  • Head & neck protection

  • Hand & wrist protection

  • Elbow protection

  • Shin protection

  • Lightspeed blade

HEAD & NECK PROTECTION

The simplest thing to buy to protect your head and neck is a fencing mask. These come in a variety of protective levels and weapon specializations. Any weapon specialization is fine, and the lowest protective level-- typically rated for 350N-- is more than adequate. Choose a three-weapon or epee mask for the most economical purchase.

If you want something better tailored to Lightspeed, please consider a Lightspeed CNBC Fencing Mask. These masks are designed for, and only for, Lightspeed fencing:

  • Enhanced visibility

  • Light weight

  • Removable forehead pad for painting and decoration

ARE HEMA MASKS OKAY?

Technically, yes, HEMA masks are fine, but we discourage them as they are typically fully black, which goes against our values which emphasize viewership and comprehension. This is a sport meant to be seen and enjoyed by our fans, sometimes in low light, not for you to hide in the dark!

Click to buy a standard fencing mask

Click to buy a CNBC mask!

 

HAND & WRIST PROTECTION

HEMA and kendo gloves are sufficient but can be expensive and a bit overkill. Your most economical choice will be lacrosse or hockey gloves, though they occupy a wide range of price and protection levels. Here’s everything you need to check before you buy your gloves:

  • Must be men’s lacrosse gloves (regardless of your gender— women’s lacrosse is played differently and their gloves are not designed for this kind of impact).

  • Should have a cuff or skirt for protection of the inner wrist. We generally recommend a cuff over a skirt. Skirts are tightened via laces or cords which wear out fast.

  • Should be designed for adults, intermediate level or above

  • A good medium sized glove should weigh at least 100 grams, or retail for at least $70. If it weighs or costs less, it’s probably not padded enough. Get discount gloves here.

  • Hockey gloves offer better protection than lacrosse but are stiffer, and are better for advanced users. Lacrosse gloves are generally adequate.

  • Click here for a pre-filtered list at SportStop.com!

This Nike Vapor 2015 glove has a cuff for inner wrist protection. A good choice for Lightspeed Saber fencing.

This Easton Stealth glove has a padded skirt that ties together to protect the wrist. Discontinued product but great choice if you can find it.

This Warrior Burn glove lacks any wrist protection. It is illegal for competitive use and not recommended for sparring.

This STX Stallion 50 has a wrist skirt and is inexpensive but is geared toward kids and is not padded enough for competitive Lightspeed Saber fencing.

 

ELBOW PROTECTION

Generally any elbow guard you can buy should be adequate. We also carry some in our store.

 

SHIN PROTECTION

The main purpose of shin protection is to give your opponent a safe target to strike below the waist. Your shin guards should protect a reasonable amount of the shin bone. They are not required to protect the entire calf. Generally any shin guard you can buy should be adequate. We have some in our store as well.

 

LIGHTSPEED BLADE (BUY)

A 3/4" OD blade is required by Lightspeed. This blade size is only offered by a few saber manufacturers and suppliers. But you can also buy them from Lightspeed.

Please note that a 1” to 3/4” adapter is required for use. These are also purchasable from Lightspeed, or you can make your own if you have the right tools. Click on the image to go to the armory.

 

CADET EQUIPMENT

In addition to the above required gear, chest and shoulder protection is required for cadets and youths (14 and under), in and out of competition. Any level of padding or quality is generally acceptable as long as the chest and shoulders are covered. Also a good option for adults wanting a bit more protection, though some brands may create some immobility in the shoulder.

OPTIONAL GEAR

  • GROIN PROTECTION. While groin hits are illegal in Lightspeed, you may still like to wear a groin protector. Accidents do happen.

  • FOOT PROTECTION. While foot hits are illegal as of 2026, martial arts-style foot pads may be more protective than shoes, just in case of accidents. Note that shoes are otherwise required, despite the feet not being valid target.

  • KNEE PROTECTION. The knees are bony and can be painful when struck.

  • BREAST & CHEST PROTECTION. It’s generally understood that hits to the breasts and/or chest are not especially painful compared to others, however, hits to the nipples ARE known to be very painful, regardless of gender. While unlikely, these do happen once in awhile. Breast and chest protectors may be a good option for you.

  • MORE: SHOULDER PADS, RIB PADS.

It is completely normal to wear more equipment than necessary. Do not feel discouraged or pressured otherwise.