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Steel Vambraces "Vanguard" on Leather Base
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Are you looking for a compromise between heavy plate armour and freedom of movement? These vambraces are exactly what your ranger, mercenary, or LARP warrior costume needs. This is no thin "tin can" for theatre, but an honest piece of gear combining thick cowhide with steel plates. Thanks to their design, they provide not only excellent forearm protection but also high comfort while wearing. Forget about bruises; with this armour, you will be ready for any skirmish, whether in the forest or on the battlefield. Further product information ...
Steel Vambraces "Vanguard" on Leather Base
Construction and Use
The base of these guards is leather with a thickness of approx. 3.6 mm. This is roughly double the thickness compared to standard costume vambraces, ensuring excellent shock absorption even before the force is distributed to the steel plate. An anatomically shaped steel plate with a thickness of 1.4 mm (17 gauge) is riveted to the leather. This plate features distinct fluting (ridges), which is not just aesthetic – historically, this element was used to increase material stiffness and to help opponent's blades glance off the armour surface.
The vambraces are fastened using sturdy leather straps and buckles on the inner side of the forearm. This allows you to easily adjust them to your arm circumference, even if you are wearing chainmail or a gambeson underneath.
Specifications
| Material | Mild steel, genuine leather |
| Steel Thickness | approx. 1.4 mm (approx. 17 gauge) |
| Leather Thickness | approx. 3.6 mm |
| Overall Length | 33 cm (13 inches) |
| Suitable for Arm Circumference | approx. 25 – 35 cm (9.8 – 13.8 inches) |
| Content | 1 pair (left and right) |
| Manufacturer | Windlass Steelcrafts® |
Historical Context: Why Vambraces?
Forearm protection was crucial for a warrior. In fencing, the arms are closest to the opponent and often catch the first blows. While solid metal tubes were used in antiquity (e.g., by Greek hoplites), the Middle Ages saw a shift to anatomical shaping with the development of plate armour. The combination of leather and metal seen here was popular among light infantry and mercenaries (brigandine style) because it allowed for cheaper repairs and greater flexibility than the full plate arms of knights.
Care and Maintenance
To ensure the armour serves you well for a long time, both materials require care. Keep the steel parts dry and regularly preserve them with oil (e.g., WD-40 or gun oil) to prevent rust. Treat the leather occasionally with beeswax or leather balm to keep it supple and prevent cracking. If the vambraces get damp from sweat or rain, let them air dry at room temperature, never directly on a heat source.
Safety Warning
Although the steel is 1.4 mm thick and backed by thick leather, please bear in mind that this is a replica intended primarily for LARP, stage fencing, and light re-enactment. The product is not certified for full-contact heavy combat (Buhurt/HMB/ACL), where deformation of the material could occur under extreme blows from halberds or axes. For maximum comfort and protection, I recommend wearing padded armour or at least a thick woollen sleeve under the vambraces.
You might also find leather gloves to be a suitable accessory to protect your palms and fingers while aesthetically completing the look.
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