Landsknecht armour
Landsknecht armour combines the powerful aesthetics of the 15th and 16th centuries with functional protection – from the characteristic breastplate, through the gorget and shoulder plates, to the full Gothic-style plate armour, ideal for re-enactment, LARP and historical performance.
The Landsknecht’s armour: Historical background
In the 15th and 16th centuries, Landsknechts were among the most feared mercenaries in Europe. Originating in the Holy Roman Empire, they shaped the face of warfare in the early modern period with their combat prowess and distinctive appearance. Their armour uniquely reflected this transitional era from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance: the classic Gothic plate armour, with its curved, flowing lines, was combined with the more angular, individually decorated elements of the new century.
For the Landsknecht, armour was far more than mere protection – it was a status symbol and an expression of personal identity. Depending on rank and wealth, a mercenary would wear individual protective plates or a complete combination of breastplate and armour. The characteristic blend of functionality and individuality makes Landsknecht armour one of the most fascinating chapters in European armour history to this day, and a popular model for re-enactment and historical re-enactment.
An overview of armour components: from the gorget to the greaves
A complete set of Landsknecht armour consists of several individual parts that can be combined step by step. This allows for a flexible start – whether individual protective plates for a display fight or a complete set for historical re-enactment.
Upper body protection
The cuirass, comprising a chest and back plate, forms the heart of any armour and protects the vital organs. The gorget safeguards the sensitive neck area, whilst shoulder plates connect to the arm guards. All parts are available in sizes S/M, M/L, L/XL and XXL.
Arm and hand protection
The arm guards and medieval arm guards consist of articulated steel plates and allow for good freedom of movement despite providing solid protection. Leather lining and adjustable straps ensure a secure fit on the arm.
Leg and foot protection
The leg armour completes the outfit from the waist down and is also available in several sizes. Combined with chainmail and a matching gambeson as undergarments, this creates a complete, historically accurate protective ensemble.
Material comparison: steel, mild steel and leather
| Material | Suitability | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Polished steel (1.6 mm) | Historical | Chest plates, gorgets, shoulder plates, arm guards – authentic look and genuine protection |
| Mild steel | LARP | More robust armour components for intense stage combat; easier to work with and repair |
| Structural steel | LARP | Particularly durable components for heavy-duty use; slightly heavier than polished steel |
| Leather | Historical | Straps, fastenings, linings – flexible and comfortable |
| Brass | Historical | Decorative fittings, rivets and buckles – historically authentic embellishments |
Price ranges and quality levels: the right set for every requirement
Individual pieces of armour such as gorgets (approx. €70) and shoulder plates (approx. €93) are ideal for beginners or for adding to existing equipment. These pieces can be easily combined with simple clothing and are also perfectly suited to short-term events.
Complete greave sets and multi-piece combination sets offer significantly more protection and historical authenticity. In this price range, you’ll find robust pieces made from 1.6 mm polished steel, designed for regular LARP use and allowing for a modular build.
Handcrafted cuirass sets and Gothic plate armour breastplates (up to approx. €294) are aimed at re-enactors with high standards of historical authenticity. The pieces from Freyhand and Epic Armoury are based on historical models and are designed for long-term, representative use.
Gothic plate armour vs. Landsknecht style: the differences
- Based on German armour from the late 15th century
- Characteristic curved, flowing lines
- Strict historical adherence to original models
- Ideal for late medieval re-enactment and exhibition fights
- Breastplates polished to a high shine for an authentic sheen
- Perfect for knight and tournament figures
- More angular shapes with decorative Renaissance elements
- Greater customisation through decorative engravings and fittings
- Combination of different armour styles typical of the period
- Ideal for Renaissance and mercenary figures
- Often combined with colourful clothing and feather adornments
- Greater variety in the assembly
Sizes, fit and care of your Landsknecht armour
The range includes sizes S/M, M/L, L/XL and XXL, ensuring a wide variety of body sizes and proportions are well catered for. The armour is fastened using leather straps, allowing for individual adjustment to suit your own build. If you are unsure which size is right for you, it is best to refer to the specific measurements provided for each product.
Polished steel should be wiped down with a lightly oiled cloth after every use to prevent oxidation and the first signs of rust. Thorough drying and subsequent oiling are essential, particularly after outdoor events where the armour has been exposed to rain or moisture. For storage, a dry, well-ventilated place is recommended – ideally hung up or on a stand to prevent pressure marks from forming.
The leather straps and fastenings of a suit of armour require regular care, as they form the supporting framework of the entire structure. Suitable leather grease or leather oil keeps the material supple and prevents cracking. Cracks or breaks in load-bearing straps must be replaced before the next use, as in the worst case they can lead to the fastening failing.
For camps or markets lasting several days, we recommend using a special rust-preventative oil that provides protection even in damp conditions. If you are transporting your armour, you should wrap the parts individually in a soft cloth or use padded bags to prevent scratches and friction rust. After the event, always clean and maintain your armour promptly – the longer moisture remains on the steel, the deeper the rust can penetrate.
Whether for your next re-enactment camp, historical performance or a representative collection – at Vehi Mercatus you’ll find Landsknecht armour in all styles and sizes, combining historical authenticity with modern comfort. Browse our range now and put together your own custom armour step by step.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most armour components are made from 1.6 mm polished steel, complemented by leather straps for fastening and comfort, as well as brass fittings for decorative details. Some more robust variants made from mild steel or structural steel are specifically designed for more intense LARP mock combat.
The range includes sizes S/M, M/L, L/XL and XXL. Thanks to the leather strap fastenings, the individual armour pieces can be adjusted within each size, ensuring a good fit for different body types.
Yes, all armour pieces – cuirass, gorget, shoulder plates, vambraces and greaves – are available as individual items and can be combined bit by bit to form a complete set of armour. This allows you to get started flexibly and expand your set step by step without having to make the full investment straight away.
Late 15th-century Gothic plate armour is characterised by curved, flowing lines and is closely modelled on historical German armour. 16th-century Landsknecht armour is more angular, with a more individual design, and displays Renaissance influences with decorative engravings and fittings – typical of the transitional period between the Middle Ages and the modern era.
After each use, polished steel should be wiped down with a lightly oiled cloth to prevent rust. Thorough drying followed by oiling is particularly important after exposure to damp or outdoor events. Rub the leather straps and fastenings regularly with leather grease to keep them supple and tear-resistant.