If the holder has full HP and is hit by a move that would otherwise cause fainting (including a one-hit knockout move), the Focus Sash will enable it to survive with 1 HP. The Focus Sash can also protect against self-inflicted confusiondamage. It can protect from all strikes of a multistrike move, but not from damage from Future Sight or Doom Desire. Once used up, the Focus Sash disappears.
Generation V onward
From Generation V on, the Focus Sash will only protect its holder from the first strike of a multistrike move.
Outside of Battle
Generations IV through VIII
Focus Sash has no effect outside of battle.
Generation IX
A used-up Focus Sash will now replenish after battle.
If the holder has full HP and takes damage from a move that would knock it out in one hit, it will endure the hit with 1 HP. Disappears for the duration of the battle after a single use.
The Focus Sash was introduced as a Pokémon Tool card in the Pokémon Trading Card Game during the English XY Series (the Japanese XY Era). It was released in the Japanese Rising Fist expansion and the English Furious Fists expansion, with artwork by Toyste Beach. In Japan, it was later reprinted in The Best of XY subset. If a Fighting-type card Pokémon with this card attached has full HP and would be Knocked Out by damage from an attack from the opponent's Pokémon, it is not Knocked Out and instead its remaining HP becomes 10. Afterwards, the card is removed from the Pokémon and discarded.
Merchandise
The Focus Sash has been featured in several officially licensed merchandise.
Contents of Trainer's bag Sleeves (purple)
Pokémon Sento Poliwhirl mini towel
