Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) combines historical study with physical training, focusing on combat techniques from medieval and Renaissance Europe. Below is a structured breakdown of costs, gear, and training essentials.
1. Basic Gear for Beginners
Most clubs offer loaner gear, but owning core items enhances your training experience.
| Item | Purpose | Cost Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Training Sword (Feder/Synthetic) | Safe practice weapon for drills & sparring | 50–50–300 | Synthetic swords are cheaper; steel feders preferred for advanced sparring. |
| Gloves (Padded/HEMA-specific) | Protects hands from strikes | 50–50–150 | Avoid cheap leather gloves; opt for HEMA-specific designs. |
| Fencing Mask (350N–1600N) | Protects head and face | 100–100–300 | 350N is minimum; 1600N offers better impact resistance. |
| Light Jacket (350N Minimum) | Shields torso from cuts and thrusts | 150–150–300 | Look for reinforced elbows and shoulders. |
| Total Basic Setup | 350–350–1,000 | Start with a mask and gloves; borrow swords initially. |
2. Full Sparring Equipment
Advanced training requires robust protection.
| Item | Purpose | Cost Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEMA Jacket (350N-800N) | Padded jacket for full-contact sparring | 250–250–500 | 800N jackets offer superior durability. |
| Padded Trousers/Knee Guards | Leg protection | 100–100–250 | Integrated knee padding is ideal. |
| Gorget | Protects the throat | 50–50–100 | Rigid designs prevent crushing injuries. |
| HEMA Gloves (Sparring) | Heavy-duty hand protection | 100–100–250 | Lobster-style gloves recommended for longsword. |
| HEMA Breeches/Fencing Knickers | Mobility and leg safety | 80–80–200 | Reinforced seams prevent tearing. |
| Chest Protector (Optional) | Extra padding for ribs and chest | 30–30–80 | Essential for women or sensitive areas. |
| Total Full Setup | 800–800–1,500 | Invest in quality gear if competing. |
3. Training & Membership Costs
| Expense | Description | Cost Range (USD) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Club Membership | Access to classes, sparring, and equipment | 50–50–150 | Monthly |
| Workshops & Seminars | Expert-led sessions on specific techniques | 50–50–300 | Per event |
| Private Lessons | 1-on-1 coaching | 30–30–100 | Per hour |
| Annual Total | 600–600–1,800 | Excluding travel costs |
Note: Many clubs offer discounts for beginners or annual payments.
4. Choosing Your Weapon
HEMA covers diverse weapons; beginners should start with popular styles.
| Weapon | Beginner-Friendly? | Cost (Training Sword) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Longsword | ✅ Yes | 200–200–400 | Most popular; foundational for other weapons. |
| Rapier | ✅ Yes | 150–150–350 | Focuses on precision and footwork. |
| Arming Sword & Buckler | ✅ Yes | 100–100–300 | Simple, dynamic, and ideal for paired drills. |
| Sabre | ✅ Yes | 150–150–400 | Combines cutting and thrusting techniques. |
| Greatsword (Montante) | ❌ No (Advanced) | 300–300–600 | Requires strength and spatial awareness. |
5. Budget-Friendly Starter Kit
| Item | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fencing Mask | ~$100 | Prioritise 350N rating. |
| Basic Gloves | ~$50 | Suitable for light drills. |
| Synthetic Sword | 80–80–150 | Lightweight and safe for beginners. |
| Club Loaner Gear | Free | Borrow jackets, trousers, and steel swords. |
| Total Budget Setup | 250–250–400 | Ideal for testing your interest in HEMA. |
6. Recommended HEMA Retailers
| Supplier | Region | Specialisation |
|---|---|---|
| SPES | Poland | Jackets, gloves, and protective gear |
| Leon Paul | UK | Masks, jackets, and fencing equipment |
| Regenyei Armory | Hungary | High-quality steel swords |
| Black Armoury | France | Historical replicas and gear |
| Purpleheart Armory | USA | Synthetic weapons and starter kits |
Key Tips for Beginners
- Join a Club First: Use loaner gear before investing.
- Prioritise Safety: Never spar without a mask and gloves.
- Focus on Footwork: Master movement before complex techniques.
- Study Historical Manuals: Resources like Fiore dei Liberi or Joachim Meyer inform modern HEMA.
Conclusion
HEMA is accessible at any budget, with entry costs starting around $250. As you progress, investing in quality gear and training ensures both safety and historical authenticity. Whether you’re drawn to the longsword’s elegance or the sabre’s speed, HEMA offers a unique blend of physical challenge and cultural enrichment.
