Jackets

[2Sirius]

I am thinking of buying a new jacket, and would like some opinions on which brand to buy. I bought my current jacket from Triplette, and it hangs like a sack! It's very functional and tough, but looks sloppy, and hey, I want to look as good as I fence. Hmmm...on second thought, I want to look much better than I fence. Any thoughts on which brands fit best? Same question on the saber lame.

[whtouche]

I know this question has been asked before, and I would love to be able to answer it but unfortunately I don't really know, and am kindof interested in the answer myself.

As far as lames go, I've found the infinity to be the most comfortable. If you order it the same size as your jacket it is a bit loose, which is good as it puts less strain on the seams and gives you some slack if you want to pre-emptively sew them to reinforce them. I've found that the blue gauntlet sabre lames are tight on the arms and a little loose in the torso, also possibly a little short in the arms. But that could just be the way Im built and might not be a prevelant problem.

As far as the fit of stainless steele lames, Im not really sure.

Now I'd like to ask a question of my own, slightly topic related but a bit more specific:
Does anyone have any experience with the PBT jackets and knickers, specifically the ultralight FIEs? Im in the market for a new set and since getting my infinity lame Im on a bit ultra-light kick.
Any comments as to how they fit and how they feel, if they're actually that light, would be great.

[Inquartata]

Originally posted by 2Sirius
I want to look much better than I fence. Any thoughts on which brands fit best? Same question on the saber lame.

You might want to look into having Armani make you a fencing jacket.

Seriously, fencing equipment is meant to be functional---to stop sharp things from piercing your hide and minimize things like bruises---not to make a fashion statement. However, some makers ( Triplette is one ) will tailor fencing clothing to your measurements for a few extra dollars. I have long arms and could never find a jacket that fit in the torso with arms that didn't stop four inches above the wrist on me ( thus constantly emerging from under my glove ). I got Triplette to customize one for me, adding sleeve length---and a higher collar while they were at it.

It's as simple as asking.

They would probably be able to do the same with lames, though I couldn't testify to that as my Uhlmann fits well enough that I haven't had to look into it.

[Dee EffEll]

I have the same problem. I have an Uhlmann jacket, but it originally fit me like a tent. I had to order a fairly large size to get it across my shoulders and chest as well as to get the sleeve length right, but this meant it hung on me like a dress. I merely took mine to a local tailor, and she pulled in the seams to make it fit right. Very simple.

And really, for epee it is more than just looking good. While the reel will pull the jacket behind you, having fabric hanging out the sides is just more valid target making you wider. I'm big enough as it is.

[2Sirius]

Originally posted by Inquartata
You might want to look into having Armani make you a fencing jacket.

Of course! What was I thinking?

Actually, I like Dee Effell's solution. There's no reason a jacket can't be both functional and look good. I've got a tailor right down the street from work. Thanks.

See you on the piste. (I'll be the really bad fencer in the really good looking jacket).

[Dee EffEll]

Originally posted by 2Sirius


See you on the piste. (I'll be the really bad fencer in the really good looking jacket).

Ah, they won't be able to tell us apart.


Hope to see you in Palm Springs.

[MyraTrue]

hmm... I've never been too pleased with the fit of triplette's jackets. They tell you they "tailor" them, but still... seen a LOT of tents. (Hey, I sent them a hand tracing and a note that I fit a RH 8 glove... they asked "whats your shoe size?" and sent me a glove that fits the RH 10 I know.) I'm lucky enough that conventional sizing is a pretty good fit in jackets- 36 US, 40 Uhlmann... they fit well. I like Uhlmann's jackets, because they were made with shape. My impression is that the Triplette jackets (certainly at the lower end) are pretty much DESIGNED as a tent!

Good luck with the tailor, its prolly the very best option. Its amazing how little time it takes, and how a well fitted jacket can improve your fencing. Well, at least decrease the occurances of "oops, your jacket sticks WAY out, and I hit it." (can't tell I fence epee, right?)

g-luck!

[DangerMouse]

Originally posted by whtouche
INow I'd like to ask a question of my own, slightly topic related but a bit more specific:
Does anyone have any experience with the PBT jackets and knickers, specifically the ultralight FIEs? Im in the market for a new set and since getting my infinity lame Im on a bit ultra-light kick.
Any comments as to how they fit and how they feel, if they're actually that light, would be great.

I just have the non-FIE jacket, but have friends that have the FIE. As far as I can tell, the fit and weight of the FIE and non-FIE are about the same. The fit is very trim with a little stretch (I find it really comfortable). The only issue I've had with my jacket is the top of the zipper broke (cost $5 to have repaired), but I can't really gripe as I only paid $90 for a custom size they had to ship from Hungary