Allstar/Uhlmann FIE Plastron 800N

I have the Allstar version of this and I like it very much.  It is light and seams like nothing is there.  Another plus is that the top at the neck velcros, so it can be treated like a zipper and "unzipped" when it gets too hot.

I don't know about you but I like to wash my kit every so often so when my Uhlmann plastron fell apart at the seams after 2 washes, I wasn't impressed. It was replaced but the Velcro has gone bald and had to be replaced. The neck elastic is sometimes uncomfortable and keeps coming off. All in all, I am not impressed

A good plastron can save your life if things go wrong. I like the security that this plastron gives me. It's light and fits well. It does not add any bulk under the jacket.

A great plastron. If you're fencing World Cups, great, this is what you want. If you're not, a $16 budget plastron is likely to be just as good at a sixth the cost. Then again, how much is safety worth to you? When I was getting my FIE kit (christmas gift), I was originally planning to get FIE whites and keep my old budget plastron. My mother (and the source of the gifts) asked what the difference was. When I told her that FIE equipment was more puncture resistent she informed me that I WAS getting an FIE plastron along with the rest.



Considerably better than any cotton plastron, compared to the cheap nylon ones is a more interesting question. They feel the same, this is safer but consdierably more expensive.

My plastron ended up being the only piece of FIE 800N clothing I bought as part of my uniform. Anyway, when I put it on before fencing, it always feels a little strange, like it's going to get in the way. However, by the time I've got my lame on, I've forgotten all about it. My only real complaint is the elastic thing that goes around the neck. Depending on where button it, the elastic strap can rub a little bit on my neck. Never had any lasting marks or irritation though. However, the thing feels very sturdy, even though it doesn't provide a whole lot of cushioning.

The Uhlmann FIE Plastron 800N is light weight and strong. It does not have extra bulk like some do under the jacket. the heat disapating fabric also makes it cooler to wear.

The only down is lack of padding, otherwise, its highly durable and keeps getting soaked thrice a week.

This is my oldest piece of equipment, which should say something about the durability of it.



A lot of people I know don't train with a plastron on, and only wear them during competitions. This is in part because most of them feel uncomfortable and only bulk you up. This plastron doesn't have this problem. It's light and breathable, which can be an issue if you are looking for some padding to avoid bruises, but on the other hand it is a valuable asset if you fence in a generally hot area.



It is durable, fits well, the velcro stays on, and the elastic band that keeps it close to the body is very durable and doesn't become loose after a lot of use.



This is probably the piece of equipment that you will keep the longest, and it is mandatory to have at all tournaments. You can't go wrong with buying one.