A steel gorget is not necessary, but one like the ones produced by Spes or PBT is reccommended for sparring with all kind of weapons. Same for padded pants. Depending on your country's regulation you might have to use anti-puncturing pant, just like our athletes are in this video. Padding is always good, but thighs are also the part of the body where you usually need less of it. For the knees, yes, they need to be fully protected and covered on the sides and on the front of the shin. Once again, this applies to any kind of weapon. Hope this answers you questions! :)

Gens Iulia - SAAMFVG thanks