During the Middle Ages, armor was the essential form of combat clothing for protecting warriors on the battlefield. Made primarily of tempered steel, wrought iron, and hardened leather, these pieces not only offered defense but also represented the status and skill of the combatant. Each component of medieval armor had a specific function, adapting to the needs of the warrior and the combat tactics of the time.
What are the parts of a medieval armor?
Gambeson: Cushioning and comfort
The gambeson was a padded jacket worn under armor. It served to cushion impacts and prevent chafing between the metal armor and the wearer's body.
Chainmail: Flexible protection
Chain mail was a garment made of interlocking metal rings, worn beneath plate armor. It offered additional defense against cuts and piercings while maintaining the warrior's flexibility.
Helmet: Head protection
The medieval helmet protected the knight's head. There were various types, including the closed helmet, the bascinet, and the morion. These helmets were designed to offer maximum protection without compromising the wearer's visibility or breathing.
Gorget: Neck protection
It was the first piece put on when dressing, consisting of an iron collar divided into two articulated pieces so they could be adjusted to protect and provide mobility.
Breastplate: Torso defense
The breastplate covered the chest and back, protecting vital organs. It consisted of two parts: the breastplate (front) and the backplate (back). These pieces were secured to the body with straps and buckles, allowing for mobility and durability in combat.
Pancera: Protection of the belly
The pancera was the element that protected the stomach and belly. This piece, along with the breastplate, was one of the most important pieces of armor, as these were the areas where most attacks and, consequently, wounds occurred.
Shoulder pads: Protection of the shoulders
Pauldrons, also known as pauldrons, protected the shoulders and upper arms. Designed to allow movement, they were essential for defending against lateral and downward attacks.
Bracers and elbow pads: Protection of arms and elbows
Bracers covered the forearms, while elbow guards protected the elbows. These pieces were crucial for safeguarding the upper limbs during close combat.
Gauntlets: Hand defense
Gauntlets were articulated metal gloves that protected the hands and wrists. They allowed the knight to wield weapons and shields without sacrificing the protection of these essential parts of his duties.
Quixotes, knee pads and greaves: Leg and shin protection
The quixotes covered the thighs, while the knee guards covered the knees and the greaves protected the shins. These pieces were essential for protecting the legs from cuts and blows, especially during combat on foot.
Escarpments: Protection of the feet
Escarpes were metal pieces that covered the feet, similar to armored shoes. They were essential for protecting this part of the body, which was frequently a target in combat.
Shield: Additional defense
Although not part of the armor itself, the shield was a crucial defensive tool. Made of wood, metal, or leather, it allowed one to deflect attacks and protect areas not covered by armor.
Medieval armor was a complex and meticulously designed ensemble of armor designed to provide maximum protection on the battlefield. Each component had a specific function, and its manufacture required the skill of skilled craftsmen, who custom-made the armor for each wearer. The wearer typically received assistance with donning and doffing, and each piece had to fit perfectly and conform to the body to prevent malfunction and ensure it fully fulfilled its function. Today, these armors are a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of medieval societies.
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