6 Best Fencing Masks Under 100 That Coaches Trust for New Fencers

Your child comes home from their first fencing class buzzing with excitement, and then hands you the list of required gear. Suddenly, you’re navigating a world of bibs, lames, and Newton ratings, with the fencing mask being the most important and personal piece of safety equipment. This first purchase isn’t about investing in an Olympic dream; it’s about providing a safe, comfortable tool for them to explore a new passion.

Understanding Mask Ratings for Youth Fencing

You’ve probably noticed that some masks are much more expensive than others, and it often comes down to a number followed by an "N." This is the Newton rating (like 350N or 1600N), which measures how much puncture force the mesh and bib can withstand. For a child just starting out in club practices and local, non-sanctioned youth events, a 350N rating is the standard and perfectly sufficient. It provides excellent protection for the level of intensity they will experience.

Think of it like buying a bicycle helmet. You don’t need a professional-grade aerodynamic helmet for a 7-year-old learning to ride in the driveway. The standard, certified helmet is designed precisely for their needs. Similarly, a 350N mask is the appropriate safety tool for a new fencer’s developmental stage. Coaches trust this rating for practice because it meets established safety standards without the significant price jump of higher-rated gear.

It’s important to know that for official, sanctioned competitions run by national governing bodies (like USA Fencing), a higher FIE 1600N rating is required. However, your child is likely months or even years away from that level. The smart move is to buy for the stage they are in now. Investing in a durable, well-fitting 350N mask allows them to learn the fundamentals safely, and you can always upgrade later if their commitment deepens and they decide to enter the competitive circuit.

Absolute Fencing 3-Weapon Practice Mask

When you ask an experienced coach what to buy for a brand-new fencer, Absolute is often one of the first names you’ll hear. Their 3-Weapon Practice Mask is a true workhorse, designed specifically for the beginner’s journey. It’s a no-frills, reliable piece of equipment that prioritizes safety and function over bells and whistles, which is exactly what you want at this stage.

This mask is a "3-weapon" model, meaning it’s suitable for all three styles of fencing: foil, epee, and sabre. This versatility is a huge plus for young fencers who are still discovering which weapon they prefer. It saves you from having to buy a new mask if your 10-year-old starts in a foil class but decides they love the fast-paced action of sabre a few months later. It’s a practical, forward-thinking choice for families.

Blue Gauntlet BG 3-Weapon Practice Mask

Blue Gauntlet is another staple in the fencing community, known for providing solid, affordable gear for clubs and new fencers. Their BG 3-Weapon Practice Mask is a direct competitor to the Absolute model and is trusted by coaches for its durability and consistent quality. It’s the kind of gear that can handle being tossed in a bag and used multiple times a week without issue.

What parents often appreciate is the straightforward value. You are getting a certified 350N mask that does its job exceptionally well, allowing your child to focus on their footwork and parries. This is a great option if you’re looking for a dependable mask that can potentially be passed down to a younger sibling later, as its sturdy construction holds up well over time.

Morethan Fencing 3-Weapon Removable Mask

If there’s one complaint you’ll hear from kids about their gear, it’s the smell. A fencing mask can get sweaty and unpleasant, which is where the Morethan Fencing Removable Mask is a game-changer for parents. The key feature here is the removable inner lining, which can be taken out and washed. This simple design element makes a world of difference in hygiene and comfort.

For a child who is sensitive to smells or just appreciates clean gear, this feature can make their fencing experience much more pleasant. It also teaches them a good lesson in equipment care. Showing your 11-year-old how to remove and wash their own mask liner builds responsibility. It’s a small detail that has a big impact on the practical, day-to-day use of the equipment.

Alliance Fencing 3-Weapon Starter Mask

Alliance Fencing has carved out a niche by focusing on creating accessible starter kits and individual pieces for the beginner market. Their 3-Weapon Starter Mask is built on the principle of providing essential safety and function at an extremely competitive price point. This is an excellent choice for families who are on a tight budget or are uncertain about their child’s long-term interest in the sport.

This mask meets the necessary 350N safety standard and provides the protection a new fencer needs for their classes. It’s a foundational piece of equipment that allows your child to get on the strip and participate fully without a large upfront financial commitment. Coaches often point parents to this option for summer camps or introductory 6-week sessions, where the goal is exploration and fun.

WFS 3-Weapon Fencing Mask for Club Use

World Fencing Style (WFS) is another brand that focuses on equipping new and intermediate fencers with reliable, budget-friendly gear. Their 3-Weapon Fencing Mask is a common sight in club armories because it’s built to withstand the rigors of frequent use by multiple fencers. For a parent, this translates to excellent durability for your own child.

This mask is a solid, middle-of-the-road option that balances cost and longevity. It doesn’t have many fancy features, but it delivers on the most important promise: keeping your child safe during their lessons. It’s a testament to the idea that good beginner equipment doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to be dependable.

Leonark Removable Lining Mask for Comfort

Similar to the Morethan model, the Leonark mask emphasizes comfort and hygiene with its removable lining. This feature is becoming increasingly popular in entry-level masks, and for good reason. It acknowledges the reality of athletic gear: it gets used, it gets sweaty, and it needs to be maintained.

Choosing a mask like this sends a great message to your child—that their comfort matters. When a new activity feels good, kids are more likely to stick with it. A fresh, clean mask is a small but significant part of a positive experience, especially for tweens and teens who are becoming more aware of personal hygiene. It’s a thoughtful feature that makes the investment feel even smarter.

Ensuring a Proper Fit for Your Fencer’s Mask

You can buy the most highly-rated mask in the world, but if it doesn’t fit correctly, it’s not safe. A proper fit is the single most important factor in a fencing mask. An ill-fitting mask can shift during a bout, obstruct vision, or fail to protect key areas. Taking the time to measure is not just a suggestion; it’s a critical safety step.

To find the right size, use a soft measuring tape to measure the circumference of your child’s head vertically—starting from under the chin, going up the side of the head, over the top, and back down to the chin. Every manufacturer has a sizing chart that corresponds to this measurement. Don’t guess or buy a size up for them to "grow into." The mask needs to be snug now.

Once the mask arrives, do a final check. It should fit snugly without being painfully tight, and there shouldn’t be any significant gaps around the face. Ask your child to shake their head side-to-side and up-and-down. The mask should move with their head, not wobble around independently. The bib should fully cover the neck area. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to bring it to the coach at the next practice; they will be happy to check the fit for you.

Choosing that first mask is a milestone in your child’s fencing journey. By focusing on a proper fit and a trusted 350N-rated model, you are making a wise investment in their safety and enjoyment. This mask is their ticket to learning, growing, and falling in love with a new sport, one parry at a time.