Without a doubt, sword fighting is one of the most fun skills in the sword realm general, as it is also taught around the world. However, with its vast effectiveness, comes a lot of practice to make perfect, which is why it's important to make sure you're equipped with the right equipment when practicing this art.  Without the proper wear, the sometimes long and grueling hours dueling or jousting can get quite painful and uncomfortable for any newcomer.

The Purpose of Knee and Shin Guards

One of the main items that will help alleviate the wear and tear of sword practice are knee and shin guards.  A tight-fitting piece of armor that not only looks cool but provides a bit more comfort is crucial.  Offering some of the best protection and mobility on the market, these protectors are so well articulated you hardly know that you are wearing them.

Knee Guards

Offer great protection from knee strikes.  The knee is protected by a rigid plastic plate to disperse the force of the blow, whilst the generous layer of foam padding beneath absorbs the force.  The sides of the knee are further protected by integrated plastic plates with foam padding.  The guards are held firmly in place with an elasticated Velcro strap around the back of the knee and can be tied to fencing breeches where possible.

Skin Guard

Shin Guards offer great protection from strikes below the knee.  The shin is protected by a rigid plastic plate to disperse the force of the blow, whilst the generous layer of foam padding beneath absorbs the force.  The calf and ankle are further protected by integrated plastic plates with foam padding.  The guards are held firmly in place with 2 elasticated Velcro straps around the back of the calf and secured around the ankle with a nylon webbed strap. Lightweight and durable, a winning combination for HEMA practitioners everywhere!

Not All Knee and Shin Guards are Made the Same

They need to articulate "with" the knee rather than restrict movement and most importantly, offer side protection for the knee which is lacking on most of the protectors that are currently used.  Buying ones that are also much less bulky than other protectors coupled with superior padding can be used for both synthetic and (blunt) steel sparring.

One other aspect of using them will helps with, is floor, mat or even grass burns.  Sometimes getting on your knees on surfaces like those can cause burns that can make your time uncomfortable.  For many of us, this can quickly become painful.  So, using the knee and shin guards can help prevent that as the smoothness of the material can prevent friction and thus, prevent burns from happening, or stop it all together.

Make Sure You Have Knee and Shin Guards the Next Time You Sword Fight

We are sure many of you out there want to start or continue sword fighting, whether for competitive reasons, LARP, or simply for fun.  However, using the right equipment can help make your experience that much more comfortable. Knee and shin guards definitely helps alleviate the physical stress it may have on your body.