Ladies' Steel Cuirass "Shieldmaiden" for LARP & Fantasy - Outlet

Ladies' Steel Cuirass "Shieldmaiden" for LARP & Fantasy

Construction and Craftsmanship

The cuirass is crafted from sturdy mild steel sheet with a thickness of 18 gauge (1.2 mm). This thickness is the gold standard for LARP armour – tough enough to withstand blows from foam weapons, yet significantly lighter than historical reenactment armour designed for sharp weapons. For your safety and comfort, the edges are rolled (approx. 0.16 inches / 4.2 mm thick), preventing chafing and reinforcing the structure. The interior is coated with black paint to improve resistance against rust caused by perspiration.

Design and Fit

The uniqueness of this model lies in its origin. The design was developed in collaboration with female LARP players from Australia who were seeking functional and affordable armour. The result is a breastplate that:

• Respects female curves: The front plate is anatomically shaped to accommodate the bust and prevent pressure points.
• Ensures mobility: Thanks to its shorter length and deep arm cutouts, the cuirass allows full range of motion for your arms and torso, which you will appreciate during fencing or archery.
• Is adjustable: The back system consists of sturdy leather straps (approx. 0.15 inches thick, 1 inch wide) that cross over the back. This distributes the weight evenly, and you can adjust the size perfectly to your figure using the metal buckles.

Usage and Context

Although this is a piece of fantasy armour with no direct historical predecessor (historically, women rarely fought in armour, and if they did, like Joan of Arc, they used modified men's plate), this type of short cuirass resembles the light infantry armour of the late Middle Ages. Today, this piece is an essential accessory for:

• LARP (Live Action Role Play): Ideal protection against foam weapons.
• Cosplay: A great base for costumes from games like Skyrim, The Witcher, or Dungeons & Dragons.
• Theatre and Film Costumes: It looks realistic and professional on stage.

Important Warning: This armour is intended for LARP, theatre, and costume purposes. It is not suitable for full-contact combat such as HMB, Buhurt, or Battle of the Nations. The material thickness and construction do not guarantee protection against full-force strikes with steel weapons.

Size Chart

To select the correct size, please measure yourself while wearing the clothing (gambeson, chainmail) you intend to wear under the cuirass. The "Plate Arc Length" indicates the measurement of the metal curve itself from side to side.

Armour Care

To ensure your cuirass remains shiny and functional for a long time, please follow these care tips:

• Rust Protection: Mild steel is prone to rust. Wipe the armour dry after every use and apply a thin layer of maintenance oil (e.g., WD-40 or gun oil).
• Leather Care: Treat the leather straps occasionally with leather conditioner or balsam to keep them supple and prevent cracking.
• Storage: Store in a dry place, ideally wrapped in a cloth that absorbs moisture.