Medieval Helms

While Medieval helmets have decorated collectors’ galleries, these historical helmets offered solid protection to warriors of the olden days. Knights in armor during the Middle Ages wore a variety of helmets. While the helmet and visor style may have varied from region to region, including designs such as the sallet, the armet, the great helmet, the bascinet, and the barbate, the function was always the same. The Medieval helmet is essential to completing a suit of armor, so they are great to add to your decoration and collection. 

What Is a Knight’s Helmet Called?

The knight’s metal helmet existed in different types, reflecting transformations throughout the times. Read about the great helm and other headgear of these Medieval knights.

Sallets

The sallet helmet is a combat helmet worn by Medieval soldiers. This variant of the bascinet helmet was popular in most of Europe in the 15th century and entirely replaced the bascinet in Italy during that period.

Because every country modified the design, this helmet had many variants, though the differences were insignificant. For example, many Renaissance historians describe an Italian sallet as more open-faced and curved to provide better visibility for their archers. 

However, as the helmet became more open-faced, it made the soldiers’ faces more susceptible to injury, thus causing warriors to return to the more closed design.

Armets

The helmet of warriors in Medieval times, called the armet, refers to a helmet with a hinged visor, with its cheekpieces hinged to the base of the bowl near the ears. Its eye slits are very narrow to give protection to the face and eyes from a strike.

The armet was the typical knight helmet for horseback riding because of the protection it offered combatants. Throughout its extended use in Renaissance and Medieval Europe, it underwent gradual changes in design, such as pierced ventilation on the right side to protect the more exposed left side. 

The close helmet became the later evolution of this protective gear. While similar to the armet in appearance, it opened vertically across the visor instead of laterally through the cheekpieces.

Great Helmets

One of the most well-known Medieval helmets is the great helmet (also known as great helms or alternative variants such as the pot helm, heaume, or bucket helm). It’s the first helmet that completely covered the faces of historical soldiers.

Initially, this knight helmet had a flat top, but that gave hammers too much of an advantage, so it was changed to have a conical top to lessen the impact of hammer blows. However, these knights didn’t wear these things alone–they put extra padding on their heads to reduce the impact of direct hits on their great helmets.

Bascinet

Of all the helmets used in medieval times, the bascinet was unique because of its singular shape. Its shape and design differed greatly from those of the previously used iron skullcap in Europe.

This type of medieval helmet had a high and pointed skull. Later, it was extended to protect the neck as well. The design changed when the great bascinet was used. The conical top gave way to a more rounded top.

Barbutes

The barbute knight helmet (Barbuta in Italian) is a tall visorless helmet with a narrow T—or Y-shaped face opening. Italian soldiers exclusively used it in the late 15th century. 

The barbute is forged from a single plate of steel, the top rising to a sharp comb and descending at the sides and the back. This marvelous piece of craftsmanship demonstrates the fantastic skill of Italian blacksmiths and forgers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you properly maintain and care for a medieval knight helmet?

To keep your knight helmet in top condition, it’s essential to clean it regularly using a soft cloth and mild soap to remove any dirt or sweat. Dry it thoroughly to prevent rust, especially for steel helmets. For leather helmets, apply a leather conditioner to maintain flexibility and prevent cracking.

Are there specific helmet types best suited for different historical reenactments?

Yes, the type of helmet you choose should match the historical period and role you are portraying. For example, the great helm is ideal for reenactments depicting the Crusades, while the sallet would be more appropriate for late 15th-century European events. Always research your reenactment’s time period and geographical area to select the most accurate helmet.

What common materials are used in replica knight helmets today, and how do they affect their weight and durability?

Modern replica knight helmets are often made from various materials, including steel, aluminum, leather, and plastic. Steel and aluminum offer the most durability and an authentic feel but are heavier. Leather and plastic helmets are lighter and often used for decorative purposes or casual reenactments where comfort is prioritized over authenticity.

Shop the Perfect Helmet for Your Look at Medieval Collectibles

Medieval Collectibles has many medieval, Renaissance, and even Greek helmets for your re-enacting needs. Our functional and decorative steel, rubber, plastic, and leather helmets make great additions to any collection.