Category:Helmet

The minimum requirement for any member of the Society on a battlefield is a steel or hardened leather skull cap which may be concealed within an authentic hat. This must be safe for the wearer and their opponent, and must be well secured to prevent its loss during combat. Visible helmets must comply with the Society authenticity requirements.

There are four main types of helmet:

• Domed helmets, including the 'spectacle helmet' and the Coppergate helmet (restricted to the ninth and earlier tenth centuries);
• Conical helmets, including the common 'spangenhelm', which are found from the fourth to the twelfth centuries;
• ‘Chimney-pot’ helmets (restricted to Rus Vikings 990-1100 only);
• Concealed helmets (skull-caps etc under a hat or hood).

Later period helmets are covered separately.

Helmet construction

Since helmets are mandatory safety equipment for combatants, they must conform to the Society's minimum standards for arms and armour. If there are questions over a helmet's construction, please contact the Society Armourer.

• Please note that helmets made out of leather are actively discouraged. A spangenhelm with panels made from thick leather may be acceptable, but if you are considering a skull-cap made entirely made from leather, we would suggest you opt for a concealed helmet under a hat or hood instead.