MEDIEVAL AND ROMAN FUNCTIONAL ARMOR
Functional armor, unlike ornamental ones, allows you to equip it with freedom of movement and protection similar to the reference models. The armors in our Zetan Medieval Shop are available in pieces or complete, they are versatile and visually appealing elements, ideal for LARP, historical reenactment, performance or cosplay.
The most complex pieces of armor to make are those that protect the joints. The gauntlets, shoulder pads, elbow pads or pouches must allow mobility, and are made from different sections. The gauntlet was the one that consisted of the most pieces.
THE ARMOR OF THE MEDIEVAL KNIGHTS
Medieval armor was used to protect the body during battles and other forms of combat. It was made of metal, usually iron or steel, and was designed to cover the chest, back, arms, and legs.
The most common type of medieval armor was plate armor, which was made up of multiple pieces worn over a padded garment known as a gambeson. Plate armor generally consisted of a cuirass, backplate, gauntlets, greaves, and a helmet.
Another type of medieval armor was chain mail, which was made up of small metal rings that were joined together to form a protective mail. Chain mail was commonly worn as a shirt or chain mail, and was often worn under plate armor for added protection.
The helmet was an important part of medieval armor and was designed to protect the head and face. Helmets came in a variety of designs, including the great helm, which covered the entire head and face, and the bascinet , which had an open face and a hinged visor.
Medieval armor was also often decorated with intricate designs and symbols, such as the coat of arms of the knight who wore it or the symbol of his order or kingdom.
The weight of medieval armor made it difficult for the medieval warrior to move quickly and easily, so soldiers had to be trained to fight in it. Also, armor was expensive and difficult to make, so it was normally only worn by the rich and powerful.
As the technology to create firearms developed, the use of armor in combat began to decline. In the 16th century, armor was worn primarily for ceremonial and symbolic purposes, rather than actual combat.
WHAT PIECES MAKE UP A MEDIEVAL ARMOR?
1. Breastplate or pectoral: metal plate that is placed on the chest to protect the heart and lungs.
2. Back plate or back plate: a metal plate that is placed on the back to protect the spine and upper back.
3. Gauntlets: Metal gloves worn over the hands to protect the fingers and wrists.
4. Greaves: metal plates that are placed over the shins to protect the legs from cuts and blows.
5. Pauldron – Metal plates worn over the shoulders to protect the upper arms and shoulders.
6. Cuirass: A combination of a breastplate and backplate worn together as one piece.
7. Tassets – Metal plates worn over the hips to protect the lower abdomen and groin.
8. Helmet: A metal head covering used to protect the head and face.
9. Visor: A hinged metal plate that can be raised or lowered to cover the face of a helmet.
10. Chainmail: A protective mail made up of small metal rings linked together, worn under or over plate armor.
11. Gambeson – A padded garment worn under armor to absorb shock and provide cushioning for the wearer.
12. Shield: round or rectangular piece of metal or wood that the soldier carries to protect the body from blows and projectiles.
13. Reinforcing Plates – Small metal plates added to armor joints to protect them from cutting or puncturing.
14. Sabatons – Metal plates worn over the feet to protect the toes and soles.
15. Bevor – A metal plate worn over the lower part of the face to protect the chin and throat.
