Gorgets#

When fully kitted you should have at least three kinds of neck protection:

• Puncture resistance from your mask’s bib
• A blade catcher in your jacket’s collar
• Something stiff and rigid in front of your larynx

That last one is a gorget. At minimum they go around your neck, and a good one can also provide some clavicle protection. A gorget is also barely noticeable when worn properly. An ill-fitting gorget can push your mask up or make it difficult to turn your head. Check with another student if this is your experience, since you need your gorget to be comfortable and do its job.

Recommendations#

All of the below recommended gorgets are accepted by local tournament organizers.

Superior Fencing#

Supfen’s basic HEMA Gorget has a good profile, offers padded wings, and is easy to get on and off. It punches above its weight, and lots of NHF fencers have this model. North Armoury sometimes stocks it as a whitelabel North Armoury Gorget.

Some fencers prefer the minimalist Roughneck Gorget. This gorget protects only the neck, so it should be paired with a larger chest protector and good shoulder protection.

If you’re already looking at Supfen gorgets then you should know to avoid the Supfen Articulated Heavy Gorget. This model is better than nothing, but there is no actual articulation to speak of, meaning that these gorgets can often interfere with turning your head.

Winter Tree Crafts#

Winter Tree Crafts makes a Stainless Gorget which ought to hold its own against anything. These should be paired with a larger chest protector and good shoulder protection.

As WTC is a US-based OEM, exchange, shipping, and customs may significantly increase the final cost.