Abstract: This paper is a review of the sublayer fence for wall shear stress measurements in the turbulent boundary layer. A summary is presented of the main techniques for determining the skin friction that makes the sublayer-fence gauge an attractive approach for use in such environments. The directional surface-fence gauge for three-dimensional turbulent boundary layer measurements is also introduced. The micro sublayer fence utilizing Micro Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) technology is a promising approach, and many concepts have been proposed. Finally, challenges faced in the development of process techniques are also outlined.