Are you a LARP enthusiast looking to level up your game? Then it’s time to armor up with LARP armour! As any experienced LARPer knows, having the right armor can make all the difference in creating an immersive and realistic experience. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know what to look for when purchasing LARPing armor and accessories. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you choose the best LARPing armor for your next game. From checking with the rules of your specific LARP to understanding the different types and materials available, including DIY armour pieces, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and get ready to take your LARPing game to the next level!
Understanding Your Game’s Rules
Step one on the path to LARPing glory: familiarize yourself with your game’s armor rules. Every LARP has its unique set of regulations that might just throw a wrench in your best-laid armor plans. Avoid the soul-crushing disappointment of being turned away at the gate by diving headfirst into the rulebook. From weight restrictions to the metal vs. non-metal debate, from safety considerations to distinct armor classifications, these rules cover a vast terrain. Just remember: being well-informed is the first step towards becoming well-armored. So, before you draw up your battle plans, make sure you’ve got a firm grasp of the rules, including the use of metal armour. As the saying goes: know thy LARP, know thyself. Now, let’s march on to the details of armor types, shall we?
Sizing Armor
Ah, sizing – the unsung hero of armor excellence! Ill-fitting armor can not only hamper your game but also make you feel like a jester instead of a knight in shining armor. And believe me, juggling swords is a far cry from wielding them. The key to conquering this beast? Measurements! When buying armor, be it online or in person, ensure you have your measurements on hand. It’s not just about how well it fits over your LARP attire but also about the comfort and mobility it offers.
Remember, even the most formidable armor is no good if it leaves you gasping for breath or unable to swing your weapon effectively. If you’re shopping online, don’t be shy about returning pieces that don’t fit well. And if you’ve got some coin to spare, consider going for a custom fit from a skilled armor smith. A good armor smith, such as those from the Mytholon, House of Warfare, Lord of Battles, Mystic Colonial, and Epic Armoury product lines, can work wonders in tailoring an armor piece that fits like a glove and moves with you, not against you. So grab that measuring tape, dear LARPer, and embark on your quest for a perfect fit! The battlefield awaits, and you want to be the knight who moves with grace and ease, not the one who moves like a tin man. Don’t forget to also consider the fit of your medieval clothing, as it can greatly affect the comfort and mobility of your armor.
Understanding Armor Types
Greetings, gallant adventurer! Now that you’ve delved into the depths of your game’s rulebook, it’s time to turn your attention to the wide world of LARP armor types. The armory of options can be roughly divided into two categories: soft and hard armor. On the one hand, we have the soft armor brigade: padded gambesons and the like. These provide the wearer with increased mobility, allowing for swift movement and the kind of quick footwork that can send an opponent’s sword swinging into thin air. The downside? Well, they offer less protection than their harder counterparts, making them ideal for LARPing with foam swords and other larp weapons.
Speaking of which, let’s look at the hard armor contingent. Plate armor, chainmail, the whole metallic shebang. These offer superior defense, transforming you into a veritable human fortress. But remember, every fortress has its weak point, and in this case, it’s agility. Hard armor might protect you from a crushing blow, but it won’t help you dodge one. And therein lies the rub – it’s a classic “speed or shield?” predicament. Your decision should hinge on your unique LARPing style. Are you a nimble rogue or a stalwart knight? Choose your armor accordingly.
Material Matters: Leather Armor
Welcome to the world of leather, the LARPing community’s darling. This darling of a material is known for its adaptability, reasonably light weight, and the ability to shape it into a myriad of designs. Its charm lies in the middle-of-the-road protection it offers, combined with its flexibility that’s superior to metal, adding a much-needed dash of agility to your armor. Not to mention, it emanates a wonderfully earthy, old-world aura that resonates with a broad spectrum of character personas at LARP events. However, a word of caution: the quality spectrum of leather, including polyurethane-coated leather, is wide and varied.
Therefore, ensure that you’re investing your coin in quality pieces from a trustworthy armorer. If possible, get your hands on the leather before purchasing to check it’s neither too frail nor flimsy. And there you have it – your guide to LARPing leather armor, complete with embellishments like metal studs, buckles, and leather straps, perfect for any live action roleplay. Remember, it’s all about striking that perfect balance between defense, comfort, and flexibility.
Material Matters: Metal Armor
Ah, metal armor, the shining star of the battlefield! If you yearn for the clash of steel in a semi-mediaeval high fantasy world, this is your go-to armor. It’s a beacon of protection, offering unparalleled defense against your adversaries. However, just as a sword, it’s a double-edged deal. While it transforms you into an invincible tank, the weight can hamper your nimbleness on the battlefield. Plus, maintaining this regal attire takes elbow grease – regular polishing is a must to keep rust at bay. It’s not just about the shiny exterior; you’ve also got to ponder the comfort factor. Wearing metal armor directly on your skin is akin to hugging a cactus – uncomfortable and prickly. However, for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the high fantasy world of LARPing, metal armor made of mild steel is a must-have.
To alleviate this, you might consider layering your metal armor over soft padding for added comfort. So, before you jump onto the metal armor wagon, consider your comfort, agility, and dedication to upkeep. It’s about finding your unique balance between resilience and flexibility, comfort and authenticity. So, while you march to the beat of clanking metal, remember to stride with caution and wisdom, especially when it comes to protecting your arms with sturdy bracers and gauntlets.
Platemail vs Lamellar vs Chainmail
Step right into the grand armory where three iconic metal armor types reign supreme: Plate, Lamellar, and Chainmail.
In one corner, we have the Platemail – the veritable Hercules of armor types. Built from large metal plates, this armor type is known for its impressive defense. The downside? Its weight and restrictive mobility. Unless your character thrives on sheer strength and enjoys a slow, stately stride, platemail could be a hefty burden to bear. On the other hand, we have Chainmail Armor – a popular choice for LARPers due to its lightweight and flexible nature. Made from interlocking metal rings, chainmail offers decent protection while still allowing for a wider range of movement. However, for those looking for a balance between protection and mobility, Lamellar Armor may be the perfect choice. Made from small overlapping plates, lamellar offers similar protection to platemail but with less weight and bulk. It also allows for more flexibility and movement compared to full platemail. Additionally, adding greaves to a lamellar armor set can provide extra protection for the legs without adding too much weight.
Next up, Lamellar armor. This is made of small plates or scales sewn onto a backing material. It’s a clever compromise, offering solid protection with a bit more flexibility than its plate counterpart. The armor’s scales flow and move with the wearer, accommodating more dynamic combat maneuvers.
And then there’s the Chainmail, the darling of many a LARPer. Crafted from thousands of interlocking metal rings, it offers a good balance between protection and mobility. Plus, there’s a certain undeniable romantic charm to the glint of a well-crafted chainmail.
Each of these armor types has its strengths and weaknesses. Choosing among them hinges on your character, your combat style, and your willingness to bear the weight (quite literally) of your armor choice. So, which shall it be, brave warrior? The choice is yours!
Armor Upkeep
What does your armor demand, dear reader? A bit of tender loving care, that’s what! Just as your character thrives on your attention, your armor flourishes with a bit of regular upkeep. Let’s face it, no one wants to face their adversaries in a raggedy, worn-out getup. Hence, your armor maintenance should be part of your LARPing ritual. Consider it as prepping your armor for its next glorious adventure on the battlefield.
Leather armor calls for a good clean and conditioning, and don’t skip this just because your piece isn’t visibly dirty. It’s akin to your skin; it needs regular nourishment to keep it supple and prevent the dreaded drying and cracking. Invest in a quality leather conditioner and devote some time to maintaining your leather pieces – it’ll help keep them looking fresh as a daisy on the battlefield.
Metal, on the other hand, demands a different kind of TLC. Regular polishing is your key to a rust-free existence. Your shiny, knightly armor will thank you for it, and so will the onlookers you’ll dazzle with your brilliant shine.
As for storage, well, stacking armor pieces is a big no-no. It’s as unwise as poking a sleeping dragon. It could lead to scratches or even warping, which can put a damper on your battlefield style. Always store your pieces properly, each in its own space, like the prized possessions they are.
So there you have it, the secret to a gleaming, battle-ready armor set. It’s a labor of love, no doubt, but every effort you pour into your armor’s upkeep, including regular cleaning and polishing, is crucial to maintaining its durability and effectiveness on the LARPing field. Remember, your armor is a reflection of your dedication and hard work in the game. It’s not just your protective shell; it’s a part of your LARPing identity. Keep it well, and it’ll serve you well in turn. Now, pick up that cleaning cloth, unsheathe that can of polish, and start pampering your armor! The next adventure awaits!
