Much like Eastern Martial Arts (EMA), Western Martial Arts have the potential to be as much a cultural experience as physical. To date, many WMA study groups employ standard athletic gear in the training. The Black Falcon School of Arms' approach to this facet of martial arts training is to wear specifically-chosen historically-inspired clothing appropriate to the era from which the source texts for our studied arts originate.

The uniform for the Black Falcon School of Arms was designed to reflect the cultural heritage of the originating art, while at the same time providing the freedom of movement necessary when practicing swordsmanship. It consists of late medieval shoes, joined hosen and a white 15th century-style shirt. Rank is indicated by a woven garter worn on the right leg. In addition, those of higher rank are expected to adhere to a higher standard of uniform choice than beginning students. Each element of the uniform is discussed below.

Shoes

      Uniform shoes worn for the Black Falcon School of Arms must be black. Late medieval-style shoes are preferred, available from a number of suppliers. Shoes may buckle or tie, but must be no higher than low ankle-boots. Linked below are two examples.
      Talbot's Medieval Ankle Boots are acceptable.
      Revival.Us's High Medieval Pull-Strap Boots are acceptable.
Beginning students may substitute black kung-fu shoes, available from a variety of martial arts suppliers.

Hosen

      Uniform hosen worn for the Black Falcon School of Arms must be black. They must be joined trunkhose rather than chausses. Hosen may be either wool or linen. Linked below is an example.
      Revival Clothing's Joined Hose are acceptable.
Beginning students may substitute Museum Replicas' Period Tights in black.

Shirt

      Uniform shirts worn for the Black Falcon School of Arms must be white. 15th century-style shirts are required, and should be linen. Linked below are some examples.
      Historic Enterprises' Tie Neck Shirt is acceptable.
      Revival Clothing's 15th Century Shirt is acceptable.

Additional Articles

      Gloves and belts may be worn at the student's discretion. While there is no color requirement for these items, student who wish to wear gloves and/or belts should remember that these articles of clothing should be in late-medieval style, and should be of a dark or neutral color in general.

      Other items, such as arming doublets, gambesons and protective equipment shall only be worn during free play, and as such do not fall under into the category of a uniform. These items--if worn--may be customized to the student's tastes.