How to Care for Your Fencing Clothing

Fencing clothing does not require complicated maintenance, but a few simple habits can make a big difference. The most important things are to let your equipment dry properly after training and to wash it carefully when needed.

Good care helps preserve the quality, fit, and protective properties of your fencing garments — and keeps them fresher for longer.

Always Let Your Equipment Dry

After practice or competition, it can be tempting to leave everything inside your fencing bag until the next session. But a fencing bag should not be used as long-term storage for damp clothing.

The fencing kit needs air.

After every training session or tournament, take your clothing out of the bag and hang it up in a well-ventilated area. This allows moisture to evaporate and helps prevent unpleasant odours from developing. If damp clothing is left sealed inside a bag, mould may eventually appear.

The same rule applies to jackets, breeches, plastrons, socks, and gloves: air them out properly before packing them away.

Never put fencing clothing in a tumble dryer. High heat can damage the fabric and shorten the garment's lifespan. Always air-dry fencing clothing naturally, either on a hanger or on a line.

How to Wash Fencing Clothing

Before washing any fencing garment, always check the care label inside the item or the washing instructions on the product page. Different fabrics and finishes may have specific requirements.

As a general rule, fencing clothing can usually be washed by hand or in a washing machine, but it should be treated gently.

Before washing, fasten all zips and close all Velcro® closures. This helps prevent snagging and protects the fabric during the wash cycle. Open hook-side Velcro can catch on certain materials and cause damage.

Use a colour-safe detergent only. Avoid detergents that contain bleach, optical whiteners, or oxidising agents, as these may affect the fabric and the garment's appearance.

Wash on a cool, gentle cycle, using water no hotter than 30°C. Do not use bleach or fabric softener.

After washing, line dry the garment in a well-ventilated area. Do not tumble dry or iron.

Caring for Fencing Gloves

Fencing gloves often need a little extra attention, especially if they have darker coloured areas or synthetic leather parts.

If your glove is dark-coloured, wash it separately to avoid colour transfer to other clothing.

If your glove is made of synthetic leather, briefly wear it on your hand after washing before leaving it to dry. This can help the glove return to its natural shape.

As with other fencing clothing, gloves should be air-dried only. Do not place them in a tumble dryer or directly on a radiator.

Storage and Transport Tips

Avoid storing or transporting damp fencing clothing in plastic bags or sealed containers. Trapped moisture can quickly lead to odours and may damage the equipment over time.

It is also best to avoid placing blades directly against your fencing clothing, especially if the clothing is damp. Moisture can cause blades to rust, and rust may stain the fabric.

Whenever you pack your fencing clothes away, even just for transport, make sure all Velcro® closures are fastened. This small step helps protect the fabric from unnecessary snagging.

Simple Care, Longer Life

Fencing clothing is designed to work hard, but it still needs proper care. Dry your kit after every session, wash it gently when needed, and avoid heat, bleach, fabric softener, and sealed storage.

With a few simple habits, your fencing clothing will stay cleaner, fresher, and ready for your next practice.