Getting Started with HEMA

Your First HEMA Gear: A Buying Guide

By HILT Official · Dec 08, 2025 · 9 min read

What to buy, what to skip, and how to avoid spending €2,000 before your first tournament.

Don't Buy Everything at Once New fencers have a tendency to go all-in on gear before they know what they actually need. Resist the urge. Train with loaner gear for at least 3 months. Figure out whether you prefer longsword or rapier before you drop €300 on specialized gloves. The Priority List Buy gear in this order. Each tier assumes you've been training long enough to justify the investment. Month 1–3: The Essentials (if your club doesn't have loaners) - A fencing mask (1600N bib), €100–180. This is the one piece of gear you should buy good from the start. Your face is not replaceable, and…

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What Is HEMA? A Complete Introduction Historical European Martial Arts explained: what it is, where it comes from, and why thousands of people are picking up longswords.
How to Start a HEMA Club From Scratch A practical, step-by-step guide to founding a HEMA study group, from finding a venue to getting your first 10 members.
Finding a HEMA Club Near You: A Beginner's Guide How to find Historical European Martial Arts clubs and study groups in your area, what to expect at your first visit, and how to evaluate if a club is right for you.

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