Lamellar armour, with overlapping, individual plates tied together is one of man’s oldest forms of armour — and one of his best. Combining superior mobility and defensive attributes with relatively lightweight, a lamellar armour brings the best of both worlds to ground and mounted knights. For reenactors and enthusiasts of Pan-Asian Medieval history, this is a “must have” piece of combat protective gear. ArmStreet is proud that our Mongolian “Steppes Warrior” armour has been well received on battlefields around the globe - from SCA Wars in North America to Historic Medieval Battle Tournaments in Eastern Europe, our armour is providing unmatched protection for champions of all sexes, ages and combat type. Whether you fight with rattan or steel, this armour will defend you from the “slings and arrows of outrageous fortune” (and swords, axes, and polearms!).
Read about unique test “Mythbusters” performed using OUR lamellar kit.
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Our lamellar is forged of 1 mm stainless steel scales that provide all of the protection you need due to the shock-absorption qualities of lamellar armor. The shoulders and upper chest and back are protected by solid pieces of stainless steel designed to protect the neck, clavicle and upper spine in a wall of steel. Each line of scales is covered with suede leather to increase shock-absorption and reduce the contact between scales. Each scale is pierced with 10 lacing holes, authentic to Mongolian design, creating a complicated, but reliable fastening method. As a “Second Generation” armour, we have upgraded the kit with wider, more covering shoulders that improve not only the appearance, but greatly enhance the protection of the arm from all angles.
Helm and vambraces do not come as part of this kit. However, matching vambraces can be purchased separately.
Larger kits are available — please contact us with your measurements and questions.
If you are looking for the lighter variant of this armour, we also offer kit combing leather pieces with steel lamellar plates, which can be found here.
We also offer our Eastern-style Long Medieval Gambeson as a match for this armour. This gambeson provides outstanding padding and looks great when paired with any of our lamellar kits.
IMPORTANT: To fit correctly and prevent injury, a suit of armour must be accurately built to the measurements of the person wearing it. Please take all measurements over either the gambeson or under-padding you are planning to wear with this armour. The sole exception is for persons buying armour and padding together, ArmStreet will then make the proper size adjustments for the armour based on the measurements provided for the padding. For size measurements for sabatons, please send the actual measurements of the footwear you plan to wear under them.
Medieval Martial Arts are, by their very nature, dangerous and ArmStreet is not responsible for any injuries sustained by persons wearing their armour during the course of such activities. We cannot stress enough the importance of proper training, armour, weapons and knowledgeable supervision during these activities. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the wearer and their opponent for the safety of the participants.
Welcome to the world of medieval armor! We look at armor making and its importance to different groups.
Medieval armor exerts an irresistible attraction. They embody craftsmanship, technological progress, chivalry and honor. Each piece tells a story of courage, battle and the search for optimal protection.
As a historian, I am always impressed by the variety and sophistication of these masterpieces. From simple chain mail to elaborately decorated plate armor - every era has produced its own innovations.
Today, armor appeals to different groups:
For live-action role-playing games, participants are looking for authentic-looking, comfortable and safe armor. Here, the compromise between historical accuracy and wearing comfort is often paramount.
In historical re-enactments, re-enactors place great value on authenticity. Every detail must be right, from the materials used to the manufacturing techniques.
For collectors, armor is an object of art. They value historical originals and high-quality replicas and are particularly interested in rare or artistically crafted pieces.
The development of armor went hand in hand with the development of weapons. In the early Middle Ages, chain mail and reinforced leather armor dominated. More effective weapons such as longbows and crossbows gave rise to more sophisticated plate armor in the High Middle Ages.
Armor also reflected social developments. Wearing certain types of armour was often a privilege of the nobility and symbolized status and power.
Chain armor consists of interwoven metal rings and offers good protection against slashing and stabbing weapons. They are flexible and relatively light, but take a lot of time and skill to make.
Plate armor, often associated with knights, offered the best protection. They consist of shaped metal plates that cover the entire body. However, they are heavy and restrict mobility.
Leather armor was popular with light infantry and archers. They offered less protection than metal, but were lighter and allowed more freedom of movement.
Gambesons, padded tunics, were often worn under other types of armor, but could also serve as light armor on their own. They offered protection against bruises and absorbed the force of blows.
Each type of armor had advantages and disadvantages. Chain armor provided good protection against cuts, but was susceptible to stabs. Plate armor provided excellent protection against most weapons, but made the wearer slower. Leather armor allowed great mobility, but offered less protection.
The choice of armor depended on many factors: the type of battle, the position of the fighter, the climate and the financial means.
The intended use is important when choosing the right armor. For LARP events, the armor should be safe, comfortable and visually appealing. Reenactment requires historical accuracy and safety for real swordplay, while for costumes the visual impression often counts.
For many enthusiasts, historical accuracy is important. This includes design, materials and manufacturing techniques. Authentic armor can provide a deeper understanding of history.
Armor must be wearable. Armor that is too heavy or inflexible can cause fatigue and impair performance. It is important to find a compromise between protection and mobility.
The weight of armor can vary considerably. A full suit of plate armor could weigh up to 25 kg! The distribution of weight is just as important as the overall weight. Well-designed armor distributes the weight evenly across the body.
The environment in which the armor is worn is of great importance. In hot climates, heavy metal armor can be problematic. Lighter versions or special ventilation systems were required here.
Choosing the right armor requires knowledge, experience and a good feel for your own needs. Whether for combat, role-playing or historical representation - a well-chosen suit of armor is more than just protection. It is a piece of history to experience.
Let's now take a closer look at the different types of medieval armor. Each type of armor has its own history and special features.
Chain armor is one of the oldest forms of body protection and has stood the test of time. Their greatest advantage lies in their flexibility - they adapt to the wearer's movements and offer good protection against slashing and stabbing weapons.
The manufacture of chain armor requires great skill. Thousands of small metal rings are individually manufactured and woven together. Traditionally, iron or steel was used, but today lighter alloys are sometimes used. Depending on its size and design, a well-made piece of chain mail can contain up to 30,000 rings!
However, this type of armor also has disadvantages: The weight can be considerable, and it offers less protection against bulky bludgeoning weapons than plate armor. In addition, chain armor requires regular maintenance to prevent rust. Oiling after each use and occasional polishing of the rings will keep it in good condition.
Plate armor represents the pinnacle of medieval armor development. They offered the best possible protection on the battlefield and were also a status symbol for knights and nobles.
Over the course of time, various styles and eras of plate armor developed. From the early transitional forms in the 14th century to the ornate and ornate suits of armor of the Renaissance - each era had its own characteristics.
A complete suit of plate armor consists of numerous individual parts: Helmet, breastplate, back armor, bracers, greaves and much more. Each part had to be precisely manufactured and fitted to ensure optimum protection and freedom of movement.
Contrary to popular belief, well-made plate armor was surprisingly flexible. The art lay in shaping and joining the plates in such a way that they did not restrict the natural movements of the body. A skilled knight could walk, ride and even do cartwheels in full armor!
Leather armor is often popular with Viking Age reenactors and LARPers, and for good reason. They offer a good balance between protection, weight and flexibility.
There are different types of leather armor: From simple, soft leather jerkins to hardened leather plates that can be almost as tough as metal. Brigantines - armor made of leather or fabric with small metal plates sewn into it - are particularly popular.
The great advantage of leather armor is its light weight and flexibility. They allow the wearer greater freedom of movement than metal armor and are particularly comfortable to wear in warmer climates.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of lamellars. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
However, leather armor also has its limitations. They offer less protection against heavy weapons or arrows than metal. They are also more susceptible to wear and tear and need to be regularly maintained and waterproofed to retain their protective effect.
Gambesons are thick, padded sleeves that are often overlooked when talking about medieval armor. Yet they played an important role, both as independent armor and as undergarments for chain or plate armor.
A well-made gambeson consists of several layers of fabric - often linen or wool - which are filled with wadding or horsehair and then stitched through. This construction makes the gambeson surprisingly resistant to blows and stabs.
As an undergarment for other types of armor, the gambeson fulfills several functions: It cushions the hard edges of the armor, distributes the weight and provides additional protection. It also keeps you warm - an important advantage on cold nights on guard duty or during winter campaigns.
In combination with other pieces of armor, a gambeson can be part of a very effective yet relatively lightweight suit of armor. Many reenactors and LARP players appreciate this versatility.
Each of these armor types has its advantages and disadvantages, its own history and its own charm. Choosing the right armor depends on many factors - from historical context to intended use to personal preference. Whether you prefer clanking plate armor or the subtle elegance of leather armor - the Middle Ages has something for everyone!
I know how overwhelming choosing your first medieval armor can be. Let's take a look at the most important aspects of this exciting process together.
Before you dive into the world of armor, ask yourself: What do I need the armor for? For LARP events? Reenactment? Or as an exhibit? The requirements vary considerably depending on the purpose.
For LARP enthusiasts, the focus is often on the visual impression, while historical accuracy is crucial for re-enactment events. Collectors may place more value on rarity and craftsmanship.
High-quality armor has its price. As a beginner, however, you should not invest too much. Start with individual, versatile pieces and gradually expand your equipment.
A good gambeson and solid chain mail often form the basis for further additions. Also consider additional accessories such as gloves, shoes or a helmet.
I often recommend the following combinations for beginners:
These combinations offer a good compromise between protection, authenticity and comfort without overstretching the budget.
Your perfect armor is not created overnight. Start with the basics and add to your equipment piece by piece. This allows you to spread the costs better, learn from experience and adapt your armor optimally.
No matter how splendid your armor looks - if it doesn't fit, it will be a pain. In my career, I have seen many knights who had to give up after a few hours in ill-fitting armor.
Take the time to determine your exact measurements. Many manufacturers offer size charts, but if in doubt, it is advisable to contact them directly. Also consider the clothing under the armor.
A good gambeson or padded undergarment is historically correct and important for your comfort. They cushion the armor, distribute the weight and protect your skin from friction and cold.
Most armor offers adjustment options. Use these to optimize the fit. It often takes a little experimentation until everything fits perfectly. Don't hesitate to ask an experienced armorer for advice.
Don't expect to feel comfortable in your new armor straight away. It takes time for your body to get used to the extra weight and restricted freedom of movement. Regularly practice putting on and taking off the armor, as well as movements in it.
Well-maintained armor can last for generations. I've seen pieces older than many a kingdom - and still in impressive condition.
Chain armor can be cleaned in a sand bath and then oiled. Plate armor requires regular polishing and greasing. Leather armor benefits from special leather care. Find out exactly how to care for your specific materials.
Store your armor in a dry and airy place. Damp environments are problematic, especially for metal and leather parts. Padded bags or cases are suitable for transportation as they absorb shocks and separate the individual parts from each other.
You can often carry out minor repairs such as replacing rivets or sewing loose seams yourself. For major damage, you should consult a specialist. It is useful to have some common spare parts such as buckles or straps in stock.
Depending on the intensity of use, a professional overhaul may be advisable every few years. Experts can not only repair damage, but also take preventative measures to extend the life of your armor.
With the right selection, adjustment and care, your armor will not only be an impressive piece of history to touch, but also a loyal companion for many adventures. Remember: armor is more than just metal and leather - it is a piece of living history that you continue to write with every use.
Despite all the enthusiasm for historical authenticity, one thing is undeniable: safety has top priority. Whether for LARP or reenactment - the protection of the wearer must be guaranteed.
Each type of armor offers different levels of protection. Chain armor, for example, protects well against cuts, but less against stabs or blunt blows. Plate armor offers comprehensive protection but restricts mobility. Leather armor is light and flexible, but offers less protection than metal.
A combination of different pieces of armor is often suitable for the best protection. A gambeson under a chain mail shirt with additional plate parts in particularly vulnerable areas such as the chest and shoulders offers a balanced mix of protection and mobility.
Interestingly, ill-fitting or incorrectly worn armor can itself become a source of injury. Pieces that are too tight can impede circulation, while pieces that are too loose can slip and hinder the wearer. Sharp edges or protruding rivets are also potential sources of danger.
Strict safety guidelines often apply at organized events. These range from regulations on the padding of weapons to rules for combat. It is important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines and follow them. After all, we all want to have fun - but safely!
Interestingly, medieval armor benefits from modern technologies. This is clearly evident in the world of historical replicas.
Modern materials such as high-strength plastics are increasingly finding their way into armor production. They enable lighter yet robust constructions. At the same time, advanced forging techniques are being used that allow for more precise production. Of course, this only applies to a very large extent to the LARP or fantasy sector. In living history or reenactment, we naturally try to work as closely as possible to the historical traditions.
3D printing is changing the production of armor parts. Complex shapes that were previously difficult to realize can now be produced relatively easily. This not only enables greater attention to detail, but also better adaptation to individual body shapes.
The biggest challenge, however, remains mastering the balancing act between historical accuracy and modern comfort. While some purists insist on absolute authenticity, others look for ways to make the armor more practical and comfortable without losing its historical character.
After our look at the world of medieval armor, I would like to highlight the most important points once again:
In all of this, keep one thing in mind: a well-chosen suit of armor is more than just protection or a costume. It is a gateway to another time, a connection to our history. Whether in LARP, reenactment or simply as an enthusiastic collector - wearing armor can be an incomparable experience.
Take the plunge! Explore the fascinating world of medieval armor. With the right knowledge and the right equipment, nothing stands in the way of your adventure. You may not only discover a new hobby, but also a new passion.
With this knowledge, you are now well prepared to embark on your personal armor journey. Whether you want to go into battle as a brave knight, win the tournament as a skilled archer or simply experience history for yourself - the right armor will be your faithful companion.
Remember: every suit of armor tells a story. Which one will be yours?
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