As one debuts in the world of fencing, it is clear that the equipment and the attire are essential to a successful competive career in fencing. The attire can either hinder one's performance or enhance it. The cotton, back-zip jacket, which will be briefly reviewed here, really does neither. But, it is comfortable and suitable for an intermediate student or the beginner; the debutant of fencing. It's a back-zip which means that either a left-handed student or a right-handed student may wear it for both sides are properly protected. It's doubly layered with a fine fabric which adds to the comfort of the jacket. It washes lovely and doesn't shrink drammatically when put through the dryer. The exterior is a course denim-like fabric which does feel, after a long bout, weighty. I highly recommend this jacket to those who are the debutants and who don't have a large purse to spend on fencing gear. Once one advances in fencing, it would be a good choice to trade in this lovely back-zip for a more light weight side-zip jacket. 4 stars

I have only been fencing for about 2 weeks and I must say that Physical Chess knows what it takes to make a fantastic beginner's training jacket. It is as light as possible while still maintaining the added cushion and protection needed for the fencing strip. The only real probllem I have encountered is the back zipper which makes it difficult for one's self to come out of the jacket quickly, but I recommend a friend or peer help you with that. Overall, the jacket is supurb and is recommended for all beginners. 5 stars

If you've fenced for a while, spend a little extra and get a fitted one. I'm 6'1", a 40L, I bought the 42 b/c the sizing said to. Sleeves are still too short, after about four years of use the zipper gave out. I've purchased a blue gauntlet jacket since then. Its much nicer, cost about $30 more. I ended up getting it tailored b/c I'm tall and skinny. 3 stars