Vendel Period Splinted Greaves 'Valsgärde', Viking Leg Armour

Vendel Period Splinted Greaves 'Valsgärde', Viking Leg Armour

Protection Proven by Centuries

The design of these greaves is based on simplicity and efficiency.

• Construction and Material: Vertical steel splints with a thickness of 1.6 mm (16 gauge) are firmly riveted to two horizontal bands of tough, 3-4 mm thick genuine leather. This construction provides excellent protection for the shin against cutting and striking weapons.
• Fastening and Size: Each greave is fastened with two leather straps and metal buckles, allowing for easy adjustment to the calf's circumference. The universal size is designed to fit most adult men, even over padded leg wraps.
• Design: The steel splints have a polished finish, and their ends are slightly flared to help protect the ankle and instep.

Who Are These Greaves For?

As this is a fully functional replica, its use is wide-ranging. They are the ideal choice for:

• Historical Reenactment and LARP: An indispensable part of the kit for anyone portraying a warrior from the Vendel Period (c. 7th century) or the subsequent Viking Age.
• Costumes and Cosplay: An excellent and authentic-looking element that adds realism to any Norse, early Germanic, or fantasy warrior costume.
• Training and Combat: Thanks to the 1.6 mm material thickness, these greaves provide real protection suitable for contact combat practice and staged battles.

A Glimpse into History: The Armour of Valsgärde

The design of these greaves is directly inspired by archaeological finds from the ship graves at Valsgärde in Sweden. These burial sites date to the Vendel Period (c. 550–790 AD), which immediately precedes the famous Viking Age. The warriors buried here were wealthy chieftains and elite fighters – the direct ancestors of the Vikings as we know them from later sagas. The armour found in these graves, including ornate helmets and splinted limb protection, demonstrates a high level of craftsmanship and gives us a rare insight into the equipment of Scandinavian elites before the Viking expansion.

Interesting Fact: East Meets West

The principle of splinted armour – vertical plates attached to a flexible backing – was not unique to Europe in history. It's fascinating that Japanese samurai warriors wore very similar leg protection, called suneate. Their shin guards also often consisted of vertical metal splints sewn or riveted to a fabric or leather backing. This is a great example of 'convergent evolution' in armour design, where two completely different cultures independently arrived at a similar and effective solution for protecting the limbs.

Caring for Your New Armour

To ensure your greaves serve you well for a long time, give them some basic care. The steel splints are made from mild steel, which is not stainless.

• Keep the armour dry. After each event, especially in damp conditions, wipe it down thoroughly.
• Regularly conserve the steel parts with a thin layer of oil (e.g., Ballistol, WD-40) to prevent rust from forming.
• Treat the leather straps from time to time with a leather conditioner to keep them supple and prevent cracking. Check the tightness of the rivets and buckles.

Technical Specifications

• Material: Steel Splints (1.6 mm / 16 gauge thick), Genuine Leather Straps (3-4 mm thick)
• Usage: Fully functional, suitable for historical combat and reenactment
• Length: approx. 27 cm / 10.6 in.
• Size: Universal, adjustable with buckles
• Finish: Polished Steel
• Manufacturer: Lord Of Battles®