Helmets
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 9 - 11 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 9 - 11 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 9 - 11 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
- Available
- Available
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Delivery time: 9 - 11 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
From the Viking nasal helmet to the late medieval basin helmet, the history of the helmet reflects the technological and military changes of entire eras — and makes it one of the most striking elements of any historical re-enactment today. Whether you’re completing a Viking costume, attending High Medieval markets as a re-enactor, or kitting out your little ones for their first knights’ festival: here you’ll find helmets for every purpose and every era.
Helmets through the ages: from the Early Middle Ages to the Renaissance
Early Middle Ages & Vikings
Forged steel helmets characterise this period. The lamellar helmet — riveted together from several segments — was widespread and found in various cultures. Alongside this, the nasal helmet with its characteristic nose strap and the Nordic visor helmet (also known as the comb helmet) are typical of Viking reenactments.
High Middle Ages
Improved forging techniques enabled more enclosed designs. The pot helmet protects the entire face, whilst the basin helmet, iron cap and skull cap offer different protection and wearing concepts for knights and foot soldiers. The iron cap with its brim was particularly popular with infantrymen.
Late Middle Ages
Foldable visors are the defining feature of this era. The dog-head helmet, with its pointed beak, is considered the symbol of this period. The schaller and barbuta allow for better vision and greater freedom of movement without sacrificing significant protection.
Renaissance
With the advent of effective firearms, the logic of armour changed fundamentally. The morion, zischägge and pear-shaped helmet became more open and lighter — poor visibility due to gunpowder smoke and the new dynamics of combat demanded different solutions. These helmet types are particularly sought after for depictions of mercenaries and conquistadors.
Helmet types at a glance: Which helmet suits which portrayal?
Early Middle Ages & Vikings
For Viking, Norman and early medieval warrior reenactments. The spangenhelm suits a broad time frame from the 5th to the 12th century. The nasalhelm was favoured by Normans and early medieval horsemen — recognisable on the Bayeux Tapestry.
High Middle Ages
For knights and foot soldiers of the 11th to 13th centuries. The pot helmet is a hallmark of the Crusades, whereas the iron cap was the ‘tool of the trade’ for ordinary infantry — widely used, cheap to produce and effective against blows from above.
Late Middle Ages & Renaissance
For authentic re-enactments of the 14th to 16th centuries. The barbuta shows Italian influence and is reminiscent of ancient models. The schaller and zischägge represent the transition to the Early Modern period — ideal for mercenary and Landsknecht characters.
Price range and quality levels: From children’s helmets to steel helmets
The children’s knight’s pot helmet with a flip-up visor made of plastic is the ideal choice for youngsters: authentic design, lightweight, robust and with no risk of injury. The straightforward solution for beginners and parents looking for a costume accessory for fairs and school festivals.
A wooden helmet stand keeps your helmet in shape in style and ensures it is stored correctly. The cowhide leather helmet liner increases the comfort of helmets without their own inner padding — essential if you’re wearing your helmet for several hours at markets.
The Elven Warrior helmet with leather lining in 16 gauge (1.6 mm) and the closed European steel helmet made from 100% carbon steel represent the upper price range in the range. Manufacturers such as Battle Merchant, Lord of Battles and Ulfberth stand for solid craftsmanship in the mid to high-end segment.
Helmets for reenactment or LARP: differences at a glance
- Historically accurate wall thicknesses (1.6–2 mm)
- Weight and material thickness correspond to originals
- Authenticity is the priority — comfort is secondary
- Steel as the main material, leather lining for extended wear
- Suitable for exhibition combat with appropriate safety requirements
- Thinner wall thicknesses (1.2 mm) for easier handling
- Greater freedom of movement for active play
- Decorative helmets: for display on a helmet stand, not suitable for wearing
- Plastic helmets for children: robust, lightweight, safe
- Lower weight reduces fatigue when worn
Buying a helmet: What to look out for when purchasing
Many steel helmets come without integrated inner padding — they often sit loosely on the head. A leather helmet liner provides a solution: it can be cut to size, adapts to the shape of the head and makes the helmet significantly more comfortable, even when worn for several hours at markets. Measure your head circumference before buying and compare it with the product specifications.
The intended use determines which wall thickness is appropriate. For purely decorative purposes or occasional wear at a medieval market, a thinner version (1.2 mm) is sufficient. For regular exhibition combat or re-enactment events involving contact, a thickness of at least 1.6 mm (16 gauge) is recommended. Also pay attention to the helmet’s weight — particularly during long events, the difference between 1.5 and 2.5 kg makes a big difference.
Steel helmets rust — this is not a quality defect, but the nature of the material. Regular oiling (e.g. with gun oil or camellia oil) and dry storage protect the surface. A wooden helmet stand maintains the shape, prevents pressure marks and ensures optimal air circulation. Remove sweat residue after wearing — particularly around the lining.
The range is divided into subcategories by era: Early Medieval and Viking helmets, High Medieval helmets, Late Medieval helmets and Renaissance helmets. This allows you to quickly find the right type for your re-enactment without having to scroll through models from other eras. If you’re unsure which helmet type suits your costume, it’s worth taking a look at the relevant era section.
Materials and thicknesses: What makes a good helmet?
| Material | Suitability | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| 100% carbon steel | Re-enactment | High-quality combat helmets, robust stage combat equipment |
| Steel (standard), 1.6 mm / 16 gauge | Reenactment | Market helmets, display helmets, standard reenactment |
| Steel (thin), 1.2 mm | LARP | Lightweight helmets for active play, minimal contact |
| Steel (heavy), 2 mm+ | Staged combat | Intense combat scenes, high protection requirements |
| Plastic | Children / Beginners | Children’s costumes, school fests, first experiences of knightly combat |
| Leather (lining/inner padding) | Accessories | Comfort when wearing helmets without their own inner padding |
Well-equipped: Helmets as part of the full kit
A helmet alone does not make armour. Depending on the era and portrayal, you can sensibly complement it with further protective equipment: chainmail protects the neck and shoulders, a gambeson cushions blows and ensures that chainmail does not lie directly against the skin. For complete late medieval plate armour portrayals, plate armour, arm guards and leg guards are added.
Those wishing to complete their defence will find suitable additions in the Shields and Bucklers category — from a simple runic shield for Viking re-enactments to a High Medieval tournament shield. For the offensive side, medieval swords in various period styles are available. You’ll find all armour categories clearly arranged in the Armoury.
After use comes storage: a wooden helmet stand maintains the shape of the helmet, prevents unsightly dents and turns your helmet into an eye-catcher in your camp or on a shelf. To search specifically for a helmet from a particular era, use the subcategories — they will take you directly to Early Medieval, High Medieval, Late Medieval and Renaissance helmets.
Whether you’re putting together a Viking costume, attending High Medieval markets as a re-enactor, or kitting out your little ones for their first knights’ festival — in the subcategories you’ll find helmets sorted by era, from the Early Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Browse through the range and complement your helmet with the right accessories from the armoury.
Frequently asked questions
That depends very much on your portrayal. For Vikings and the Early Middle Ages (6th–10th centuries), the spangenhelm, nasal helmet and spectacle helmet are typical. In the High Middle Ages (11th–13th centuries), pot helmets, basin helmets and iron hats were used. The Late Middle Ages are characterised by dog-head helmets, schallers and barbuta, whilst morions and zischägge are associated with Renaissance mercenaries and conquistadors.
Reenactment helmets generally have historically accurate wall thicknesses of 1.6 mm (16 gauge) or more and are designed for authenticity. LARP helmets are often lighter and have thinner walls (from approx. 1.2 mm) to allow freedom of movement during active play. Decorative helmets are not intended for either LARP or re-enactment, but solely for display — for example, on a helmet stand.
Steel rusts when exposed to moisture and sweat — this is inherent to the material and not a quality defect. Wipe the helmet dry after wearing it, remove any sweat residue and regularly oil the surface with gun oil or camellia oil. Store your helmet in a dry place, ideally on a helmet stand that ensures good air circulation and prevents pressure marks.
Many steel helmets are supplied without integrated inner padding and may therefore sit loosely or become uncomfortable when worn for long periods. A cowhide leather helmet liner provides a solution: it can be cut to size, adapts to the individual head shape and makes the helmet significantly more comfortable, even when worn for several hours at markets. Measure your head circumference before purchasing and compare it with the product specifications.
Yes — the children’s knight’s pot helmet with a plastic flip-up visor is specially designed for youngsters. It features an authentic design, is lightweight and robust, without the risk of injury associated with metal helmets. Starting from around €11, it is ideal for visits to medieval markets, school fairs or fancy dress events.