Protection of the torso is fundamental in the practice of Historical European Martial Arts. This area, including the chest and vital organs, requires special attention to ensure the safety of the practitioner.

Protective equipment for the chest and torso are designed to provide a balance between safety, mobility, and comfort. These protections absorb the impacts of blows, whether they are cuts or thrusts, while allowing sufficient range of motion to execute HEMA techniques.

The choice can range from a simple chest guard for targeted protection to a full jacket for more extensive coverage. The evolution of materials now allows for the design of jackets and chest guards that combine protective efficiency and respect for historical combat sensations.

The selection of chest protection, whether it's a padded jacket, a rigid chest guard, or a fitted corset, depends on the level of practice, the weapon used, and the intensity of the exchanges.