Choosing a new foil and fencing shoes

[DropkickDuffy]

Hey there. I was wondering if anyone has any experience with the new Mr. Chen FIE maraging blades that BG carries? I'm looking for a lighter foil (at least compared to my Vniti) with more bend. I've had my Vniti for almost 2 years and it has just been too damn heavy and stiff for my liking, and I fence 2x a week with moderate use. The other weapons I use are non-maraging and I would like to find something that is decently light with a good amount of bend without being overly whippy.

Also, I'm thinking about getting the Onitsuka LA Fencing shoes and putting some sport gel-soles in them? I was also considering the Stabil 5. I've searched the forums but still haven't gotten enough conclusive evidence between the two. Suggestions?

Cheers

[keropie]

No real opinions of the shoes, but the blade (I have one of them) I'm very happy with. I bought it as a test case for the team, and it really is very nice. I don't know that it's past whatever FIE tests it needs to (the FIE 'stamp' looks pretty hand done to me), but it feels good, it's fairly light, hasn't taken any sort of weird bend in the three months I've used it... I'm a fan.

[achilleus]

On the blade, no. The shoes, get the Stabils, or get a fencing shoe. Either the LP, or one of the higher end Adidas ones, they both get good to OK remarks from people who have used them.

The Onitsuka's are a fashion shoe issued by Asics. They are light and low, and like many low shoes, will probably last. They do not provide cushion or support, and a gel insole will only make a little difference.

If you like your fencing shoes to really light and low, don't get the Stabil. They have a lot more cushion and support than fencing shoes, but I love them for this reason. They've also been the most durable shoes I've had for fencing, which is another plus.