Top 6 Best Fencing Shoes 2025

Topics Covered In This Article:

1. Top picks
2. Intro
3. What Shoes Are Good For Fencing
4. How we pick fencing shoes for you
5. Reviews, Picks & Brands Of Best Fencing Shoes
6. Best Suggestions For Fencing Competition.
7. Best Value For Money Fencing Shoe.
8. Worst Fencing Shoe Ever.
9. Fencing Shoes to Avoid
10. Frequently Asked Questions About Fencing Shoes
11. Final Verdict

Top Picks:

1. Descente – Overall Best Fencing Shoe
2. ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 – Our Top Pick
3. ASICS GEL-Rocket 10 – Most Durable
4. ASICS GEL 3 – Ideal for Those with Wide Feet
5. ROPHOO Fencing Shoes – Outstanding for Breathability
6. ASICS Men’s UPCOURT 5 – Budget-Friendly
   
   

Intro:

Choosing the best fencing shoes is not a small task. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced fencer, it is always difficult to find out the right footwear to support your performance and keep you comfortable during those intense bouts. Fencing is a dynamic sport, requiring quick movements and sudden changes of direction.

Comfort is vital to help prevent injuries, especially if you plan to wear your shoes for extended periods. When looking for a good pair of shoes, you need to consider the quality and how well they will work with your feet. A trusted brand can help alleviate the problems often associated with cheap alternatives that do not offer the necessary support.

With so many options available, ranging from budget-friendly to high-performance models, the right shoe can make a big difference in your game. The research on fencing shoes shows that they need to provide stability and traction to help fencers move quickly without slipping. If you are looking to find the perfect fit, you will encounter common questions about the difference between different selections. Should you choose specialized shoes, or are non-fencing athletic shoes enough? A well-chosen pair of fencing shoes will not only enhance your performance but also help you feel confident as you move around the piste.

What Makes Fencing Shoes Ideal for Performance?

When it comes to fencing shoes, it is essential to focus on their ability to provide support and traction. Fencing requires quick side-to-side and front-to-back movements, so shoes must offer excellent grip to keep you stable during every move. I have found that a secure shoe can greatly improve balance, allowing for better agility and faster reactions on the strip.

Cushioning for Comfort:

Proper cushioning is crucial for reducing the painful impact of jumps and lunges. Without it, the stress on your feet can lead to discomfort after long training sessions. From experience, I can say that well-padded heels and soles make a noticeable difference, keeping your feet comfortable and preventing soreness, even during extended bouts.

Fit and Agility:

A snug and tight fit ensures your feet stay in place and do not slide around inside the shoe, which could affect your footwork. I have learned that a secure fit makes movements quicker and more precise, whether you’re advancing or retreating. Shoes that provide this fit offer enhanced stability, crucial for effective fencing performance.

Durability for Long-Term Use:

The durability of fencing shoes is equally important. With repeated side-to-side and linear motions, shoes can wear out quickly. In my experience, investing in reinforced soles and high-quality materials pays off in the long run. A durable pair will withstand intense training sessions without losing their grip or comfort.

Protection and Material Quality:

Lastly, the material used in fencing shoes plays a significant role in protecting your feet. Lightweight, breathable materials prevent discomfort, while reinforced areas offer extra protection against blisters and abrasions. A well-designed shoe ensures that your feet remain secure and comfortable, letting you focus on your technique rather than your footwear.

How we pick:

Our Selection Process For Choosing Best Fencing Shoes:

Choosing the best fencing shoes is a matter of balancing comfort, performance, and durability. We start by focusing on what makes fencing such a fast-paced sport, the constant footwork, quick movements, and rapid direction changes. Whether you’re advancing, lunging, or retreating, having shoes that support your lateral and side-to-side motions is crucial for stability. The right pair should absorb impact and help reduce the stress exerted on your feet during these high-intensity actions.

Comfort and Flexibility:

One of the most important aspects we considered was comfort. Fencing requires precise movements, so shoes need to be flexible enough to allow speed without being too bulky. The grip and stability of the shoes are also essential, particularly when it comes to side-to-side movements. We analyzed different models with specific features such as low heels and a stable base, ensuring that they offer a responsive feel while still being cushioned enough to protect against the forces of landing after each jump or lunge.

Fit and Support:

Fencing shoes must fit properly to avoid discomfort or injury. We considered the importance of choosing shoes that offer the right fit, whether you have wide or narrow feet. Many pairs offered excellent arch support, whether you’re someone with flat feet or a high arch. We also paid attention to the heel—a low heel helps with a stable foundation, making sure that cramping doesn’t occur during a match. The right shoes should not only offer comfort but also be protective enough to keep you from unnecessary stress.

Performance Under Real Conditions:

Our research involved firsthand experiences and feedback from experienced fencers who have spent hours on the piste. We paid close attention to how each pair of shoes performed under real conditions, such as during long matches or on different court surfaces. Grip performance and stability were crucial for sprinting and bouncing, especially when a sudden retreat or advance was required. The shoes needed to hold up through the tough demands of active play and not falter under intense pressure.

Value for Money:

We have balanced cost with quality. We wanted shoes that not only provides excellent performance but also offer a good value for money. While some expensive pairs excelled in comfort and durability. We gathered information from coaches, students, and discussions to find the best options that gave the right balance of flexibility, comfort, and foot protection.

Reviews, Picks & Brands Of Best Fencing Shoes:

1. Descente – Overall Best Fencing Shoe:

Advantages:

• Comfortable fit
  
• Wide toe area
  
• Well structured and not heavy
  
• Improved design over Nike Balestra 2

Disadvantages:

• Rare sight outside of Asia
  
• Expensive

The Descente is easily the best fencing shoe I’ve ever tried. These shoes are a rare sight outside of Asia, but they truly stand out. The design is well structured yet not heavy, and they are comfortably padded without being bulky. One of the best features is how they’re wide enough around the toes to ensure they don’t squeeze, making them feel like a perfect feeling shoe. The Descente brings to mind the Nike Balestra 2, but in my opinion, they take the best design elements from the original Nike shoes and improve upon them, offering a much more comfortable fit. These shoes are truly a step up in both comfort and functionality for fencing enthusiasts.

2. ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 – Our Top Pick:

Advantages:

• Comfortable
  
• Quickly becomes usable after break-in period
  
• Very best balance of flex and stiffness
  
• Available in wide sizes

Disadvantages:

• Expensive
• More weight than others

When choosing the best fencing shoes, the ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 stands out as a top performer. Designed with FlyteFoam midsole, it offers a cushioned and responsive feel that is perfect for fencers who need shock absorption during hard landings. The shoe strikes an ideal balance between flexibility and stiffness, providing the support necessary for quick, sharp movements like side-to-side motions while maintaining a natural feel. It is no surprise that the ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 is a top choice for fencers at any level, offering excellent stability, durability, and side support. It also accommodates various foot shapes with its wide widths, making it an excellent option for those with flat feet or weird feet.

As a fencing fan, I have found these shoes to be incredibly durable, with no holes even after extensive training sessions. They may feel a bit heavy for some, especially beginners, and they can be a bit narrow, but for experienced fencers, they provide the perfect fit. The plastic material used in the uppers adds to their durability, and they are built to withstand the force exerted during intense footwork. Whether you are advancing or retreating, these shoes ensure that your foot does not roll around, keeping it secure and comfortable through every move. If you are looking for a shoe that offers high performance, the ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 is hard to beat.

3. ASICS GEL-Rocket 10 – Most Durable:

Advantages:

• Durable and long-lasting
  
• Good arch support and heel lift
  
• Stable and flexible
  
• Available in wide sizes
  
• Affordable

Disadvantages:

• Heavier
  

The ASICS Gel-Rocket 10 stands out as one of the most durable fencing shoes you can find. Built to withstand the immense forces that come with movements like a lunge or jump, these shoes are designed to offer arch support and heel lift while ensuring your feet stay protected. Known for their flexibility and stability, the Gel Rockets feature the Trusstic System technology, which maintains structural integrity while reducing the weight. They also offer a wide range of sizes, including 4E width, ensuring a comfortable fit for various foot types. Whether you’re in the fencing community or just looking for an affordable alternative to non-fencing shoes, the Gel Rockets are a reliable choice.

Although they are not the lightest option available, their durability and flexibility make them perfect for frequent use, with a price that’s generally considered affordable for the quality offered. These shoes tend to last more than 6 months of intense use, even under the heftiest demands. A widely-seen choice in the fencing world, the Gel Rockets combine performance and value, making them a top recommendation for anyone looking for reliable fencing shoes.

4. ASICS GEL 3 – Great for Those with Wide Feet:

Advantages:

• Comfortable
  
• Cushioned
  
• Supportive
  
• Good grip
  
• Wide toe box
  
• Durable

Disadvantages:

• Heavy
  
• Expensive
  
• Loose fit
  
• Break-in period
  

From my personal experience, the ASICS GEL 3 is probably one of the best choices for wide feet. I’ve always had trouble finding shoes that fit comfortably during intense lunge movements, but the wider toe box of the ASICS GEL 3 makes a great option. Unlike some models, like Nike Air Zoom or Upcourt 5, which feel tight and unstable, these shoes provide the perfect balance of cushioning and protection. The low profile keeps you low to the ground, enhancing your grip and force absorption when you need to move quickly.

What I particularly like about the ASICS GEL 3 is its wraparound heel and padding, which provide extra support and stability during rapid lunges. Compared to other models, like Descente, it provides better comfort and grip during squash or fencing movements, where you need to absorb force from every step. While some shoes might not last as long, the ASICS GEL 3 is designed to hold up well under intense use, making it a good choice for anyone with wide feet who needs both comfort and protection.

5. ROPHOO Fencing Shoes – Excellent for Breathability:

Advantages:

• Breathable
  
• Durable
  
• Good traction
  
• Comfortable
  
• Stylish

Disadvantages:

• Stiff
  
• Wears quickly
  

I’ve found the ROPHOO fencing shoes to be an excellent choice for intense training sessions. The breathability of the high-tech KPU upper material keeps my feet cool and dry, even during long practice hours. The unisex design, with its black and white color scheme and red contrast collar, looks great too. Despite feeling stiff at first, they quickly became comfortable after a short break-in period.

The rubber outer sole provides good traction, ensuring I can move quickly without worrying about losing my grip. Whether you’re a beginner or competing at a high level, I’d recommend these shoes for their quality and reasonable price. They offer great value for regular use or serious training.

6. ASICS Men’s UPCOURT 5 – Budget-Friendly:

Advantages:

• Comfortable
  
• Great grip
  
• Lightweight
  
• Affordable

Disadvantages:

• Basic cushioning
  
• Not for heavy use
  
• Limited narrow foot support
  

When I was searching for a budget-friendly fencing shoe, I stumbled upon the ASICS Men’s UPCOURT 5, and it did not disappoint. These indoor court shoes offer great grip on wood floors, which is essential for any fencing match. The Teraflex outsole is perfect for quick movements, whether you are making advances or retreats. The snug fit felt almost like a glove, offering comfort without being too heavy.

While they may not have the high-performance cushioning of something like the ASICS Gel Rocket 10, they are an excellent choice for those who do not want to spend too much. If you are not into super specialized fencing shoes, these will give you everything you need for medium to light sessions. They fit well even for those with a medium-wide toe box.

Worst Fencing Shoe Ever:

Nike Balestra 2:

The Nike Balestra 2 is, in my experience, one of the worst sports shoes I have tried. While the focus seems to be on giving them a refreshing look, the comfort and durability fall short. The padding feels almost non-existent compared to the previous generation, and the lunge protection is nowhere near as durable. These shoes are tight in some areas and loose in others, making them painful to wear, especially when fencing. Given the price, I am unsure why anyone would buy them, as they don’t even look that great. In my humble opinion (imho), I would not recommend these to anyone looking for quality fencing shoes.

Best Suggestions For Fencing Competition:

These models are listed as some of the best for competition style fencing shoes:

• Descente
  
• Azza 15/14 Fencing Shoes
  
• Asics Gel Domain 3
  
• PBT Fencera
  
• Kempa Attack Pro

Each Model combines innovation and style that caters to sophisticated fencers, enabling advanced performance and mobility on the piste.

Fencing Shoes to Avoid:

Avoid cheap cross-trainers or general shoes like Converse, as they lack the support and protection needed for fencing. These shoes often have flat soles that don’t provide proper grip for lateral movement, leading to sliding or rolling of the feet. Fencers need shoes designed for the sport, offering better support and traction during quick movements.

Best Value For Money Fencing Shoe:

Do-Win Fencing Shoes:

The Do-Win fencing shoes are great for those looking for value for money. With a variety of designs and colors, they offer good durability and comfort even after a few sessions. I’ve used them myself, and the ankle support and rounded heel help with foot rolls and dragging. The padding around the toe adds extra comfort, making them ideal for long practice sessions.

However, the thin material around the foxing tape can wear out quickly, and some users experience issues with the drag in the toe cap area. Despite that, for their price, Do-Win shoes perform well and provide great stability on the floor.

Advantages:

• Affordable and durable.
  
• Comfortable with good support.
  
• Variety in designs.
  

Frequently Asked Questions About Fencing Shoes:

• Can you wear any shoes for fencing?

If any shoes are comfortable for you and give enough cushion for your heel and enough grip on the ground then they are good. If not then it’s worth trying on fencing shoes but you won’t notice a big difference in your fencing until you’re fencing 3 hours a day regularly and even then the difference won’t be huge.

• What do you wear under fencing?

A short-sleeved T-shirt keeps you always cool in under the fencing jacket, while the long pants like sweatpants or athletic warm-ups ensure safety. Avoid jeans or regular street pants as they restrict movement.

• Why do fencers wear long socks?

Fencing socks are very important for protecting the fencer’s shins, especially in epee where they have a valid target. They also shield your feet, preventing wear and scraping on the front foot’s heel and the back foot’s sole during intense movement.

• Does fencing make you strong? 

Fencing enhances muscle strength, flexibility, and coordination through its intricate physical movements. To execute precise and powerful actions, the body must build both flexibility and strength.

Final Verdict:

Lastly, it is very necessary to choose the most perfect fencing shoes for comfort, ease of use, and long service life during the match. Shoes like the Descente and ASICS Gel-Resolution 8 catch the eye with their supreme support and stability, comfort being the most advantageous feature that those shoes have, and as a result, they can be used by those individuals who are not even familiar with this sport. A very important aspect is to find shoes with which you will have exceptional grip, and stability.