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.