Blackened Viking Lamellar Skirt: Robust Armour with Brass Accents

Blackened Viking Lamellar Skirt: Robust Armour with Brass Accents

This impressive skirt is the result of precise handcrafting. It consists of hundreds of overlapping plates (lamellae) made from blackened steel approximately 0.8 mm thick (equivalent to 20 gauge). These lamellae are securely fastened with durable genuine leather straps and attached to a sturdy leather backing, ensuring both strength and flexibility during movement. Visually, the contrast between the dark, blackened steel and a striking central strip of pure brass dominates, giving the skirt a unique, battle-ready yet elegant appearance. Measuring approximately 39.5 cm (15.5 inches) in height (excluding the belt loops) and around 29 cm (11.4 inches) wide, it offers solid coverage for the hips and upper thighs without significantly hindering your mobility in combat.

Who wore lamellar armour in history?

Lamellar armour, constructed from small, interlinked plates, was a popular form of protection across Eurasia for many centuries. It was worn not only by Vikings and warriors of the Kievan Rus' (hence the sometimes-used 'Rus' designation) but also by Steppe nomads (like the Avars and Magyars), Byzantines, and fighters in the Far East (China, Korea, Japan). Its popularity stemmed from a good balance between protection, relative mobility, and the ease of repair by replacing damaged plates in the field. A skirt like this protected the hips and upper thighs, often supplementing a cuirass (lamellar, scale, or mail) or a mail hauberk to provide more comprehensive defence for the torso and legs. It was utilised by both infantry and cavalry during the early medieval period and beyond.

How can you use the skirt today?

This lamellar skirt is an ideal choice for historical reenactment, where you'll appreciate its authentic look and functionality when portraying Viking or early medieval Eastern European warriors. It perfectly complements your costume for LARP (Live Action Role Playing) events, fantasy festivals, or themed gatherings where you want to embody a resilient fighter. It can also be a fascinating collector's item or a striking piece in your personal armoury, recalling the warrior traditions of ages past. Simply thread your favourite belt (not included) through the prepared leather loops, and you're ready to embark on your adventure, equipped with additional protection and style.

An interesting fact from history

Did you know that lamellar armour was often far more common in Eastern Europe and Asia than the mail armour that tended to dominate in the West? Its construction was well-suited to combat against arrows and slashing weapons, which was crucial in regions influenced by horse archers and different fighting tactics. Finds of lamellar armour are known from sites such as Birka in Sweden and archaeological locations associated with the Avars and early Magyars, attesting to its prevalence during the Viking Age and early medieval period.

How to care for your skirt

Your skirt will arrive heavily oiled to protect it from corrosion during storage and transit. Before first use, we recommend carefully wiping off the excess oil, for instance, with paper towels or a soft cloth. Should small oxidation spots (surface rust) appear on the lamellae, you can remove them gently using a fine abrasive block (metal cleaning rubber) or a very fine wire brush (e.g., brass, to avoid scratching). However, proceed with great care to avoid damaging the leather straps and backing. When cleaning the brass lamellae, avoid abrasive methods that could mar their surface. After use, especially if the skirt has become damp, it's important to dry it thoroughly and lightly treat it with a suitable preservative oil (like WD-40, Ballistol, or another gun oil) to ensure you enjoy its great look and functionality for as long as possible. The leather should occasionally be treated with a leather conditioner to keep it supple.

A high-quality product made by Lord Of Battles®