Medieval Steel Vambraces Guardian with Suede Lining

Medieval Steel Vambraces Guardian with Suede Lining

Forearm Protection for Combat and Costume

When you look at these arm guards, you see a simple yet functional design. They are anatomically shaped to follow the line of your forearm from wrist to elbow. The material thickness of approx. 1 mm (approx. 19 gauge) is sufficient to absorb blows from foam weapons during LARP battles. Two sturdy leather straps with metal buckles serve for fastening, allowing you to tighten them easily with one hand.

Important Warning: Although made of steel, this product is primarily intended as a costume accessory or for light scenic fencing. It is not functional armour for full-contact combat such as buhurt (HMB, BOTN). The 1 mm thickness would not prevent deformation of the metal or potential injury if struck by a steel axe or polearm. For maximum comfort, I recommend wearing a padded gambeson or at least a thick tunic underneath the vambraces.

Historical Insight: Why Protect the Forearm?

Historically, the forearm was often the first target in melee combat. When instinctively defending against a strike, a warrior raises their arms to protect their face. If they lacked a shield, quality vambraces were often their only hope. While knights wore full plate arms, infantry and archers often relied on simple but effective tubular guards like these. The suede lining is a luxurious feature here, increasing friction and preventing the armour from slipping down in the heat of battle.

Caring for Your Armour

To keep these vambraces looking great and rust-free for a long time, they require care. Steel is susceptible to moisture.

• Wipe the metal dry with a cloth after every use.
• Preserve the surface with oil (e.g., WD40, Ballistol, or mineral oil).
• Do not leave the inner leather damp with sweat – let it dry slowly at room temperature (never on a radiator, as the leather would harden and crack).

I recommend complementing this set with simple leather gloves to protect your palms and visually connect the vambrace with the rest of your hand.

Technical Specifications