Protective clothing comes in two standards
There are 2 standards of protective clothing and equipment used in fencing:
FFE (350N) or 'club' equipment used for training, interclub and state level competition. Entry level equipment and less expensive. Perfect for the social fencer and most junior fencers.
FIE (800N) equipment used in national and international competition. When investing in your equipment it is best to first ask what you want to do with your fencing. If necessary, talk to your coach to get more information.