Early Medieval Leather Spangenhelm with Steel Nasal

Early Medieval Leather Spangenhelm with Steel Nasal

Riveted Leather and Steel Construction

The skull is assembled from several sections of brown hardened leather, reinforced by a steel brow band and steel straps running over the crown. Numerous rivets secure the individual components and emphasise the distinctive framework of a segmented early medieval helmet.

The steel fittings feature an irregular hammered texture together with small punched decorative details. A long steel nasal extends down the front, creating a commanding silhouette while partially covering the nose. Two elongated suede cheek guards protect the sides of the face and part of the neck without seriously restricting vision.

The Historical Spangenhelm

Segmented helmets of the type now commonly called the Spangenhelm were used in Europe and neighbouring regions from approximately the 5th to the 11th century. Their structure consisted of a supporting framework of metal bands with separate plates fitted between them. This method allowed armourers to produce a strong helmet from several smaller pieces at a time when raising a large one-piece iron skull required considerably more demanding metalworking.

Different forms were worn by Late Roman and Byzantine soldiers, Germanic warriors and members of early medieval military elites. Related banded helmet constructions later influenced equipment associated with Vikings, Normans and other European fighting cultures. This particular model is a stylised reproduction combining the historical principle with an especially decorative leather-and-steel appearance.

How to Fit the Helmet

Adjust the internal liner before wearing so that the helmet sits level and does not slide down over the forehead. The nasal guard should remain centred in front of your face. Tighten the chin strap enough to keep the helmet stable during ordinary movement without restricting breathing or jaw movement. For improved comfort, we recommend wearing a padded arming cap, helmet liner or mail coif underneath. A suitable padded layer reduces pressure points, absorbs perspiration and helps keep the helmet stable.

Recommended Uses

• LARP and fantasy costumes
• Norman and early medieval character outfits
• medieval fairs and historical festivals
• theatre, film and photography
• collecting and decorative display

Technical Specifications

Care and Safe Use

After wearing, allow the helmet to dry naturally at room temperature and wipe the inside with a soft dry cloth. Treat the leather occasionally with a small amount of suitable leather balm free from aggressive solvents. Keep the steel bands dry and apply a thin coat of weapon oil or neutral corrosion inhibitor from time to time. Do not store the helmet in damp conditions, direct sunlight or next to a heater. Never soak it in water or dry it with hot air, as the leather may harden, crack or lose its shape.

This helmet is not protective armour intended for buhurt, Battle of the Nations or comparable full-contact fighting. Do not rely on it for protection against forceful blows from sharp or blunt weapons unless its suitability has been expressly confirmed under the rules of the relevant event. Inspect the rivets, leather components, liner and chin strap before every use.

Recommended Accessories

For comfortable wear, we recommend a padded arming cap or helmet liner suitable for a 10th–13th-century impression. Complete a Norman or early medieval outfit with a mail coif, mail shirt, gambeson, wool tunic, leather belt and Norman kite shield. For a Viking-inspired impression, add a round shield, axe, wool cloak and leather belt pouch appropriate to the 9th–11th century.