Should the plastron be one size smaller than the jacket?

[Eyvind]

Howdy Folks,

Just received my first uniform in the mail today. It's a 3-piece FDN set. I ordered size 52 (jacket and pants) and these seem to fit nicely. But I've noticed that the plastron they sent is a size M (which according to their sizing chart is for man's Euro size 48-50). It seems just a bit snug but since I'm still a beginner (and only really know beat-up old club clothing) I don't know if that's the way a plastron is supposed to be.

Should a plastron be sized a bit smaller than the jacket? Or have they made an error when they packaged my set?

Thanks very much.

Take care,
Eyvind

[mrbiggs]

There's no real rule here. The answer is pretty straightforward. Does it fit you? If yes, then you're fine. If no, you should return it for a size up.

I personally fence in medium plastrons, which are a bit small for me, fairly regularly, and I don't really notice it. But they aren't small enough to hinder my movement.

[erik_blank]

Most of the plastrons that my club has are of the "one size fits most" variety. Most people will be able to use them without much of a problem. Some of my people here have been weight lifters in the past (or were really busy swinging a sledge for a summer or two on the farm) and have needed larger plastrons because they bound the arm. For those happy few we ordered a handfull of larger plastrons.
If you feel that the plastron is too snug, then listen to your body and return it. No need to get worn out because of poorly fitting uniforms.

[Eyvind]

Thanks for the comments. Naturally, I want the most comfortable fit. But I don't know if a larger one would be more or less comfortable. Would a large plastron (52-54) bunch up more (and therefore be more uncomfortable) under a jacket size 52 (and that's why they sent a medium)? As I don't have a large one to try on I wonder if anyone can comment.

Thanks again for your thoughts.

Take care,
Eyvind

[erik_blank]

Best I can say is to ask some of your fellow fencers in your area if they have an appropriate one you could try on. Have you ben to any competitions yet? Big competitions often have vendors there that you could ask to try on a plastron, or worst case, you could look for someone that is about your size and ask to try on their plastrion.
Good luck!