Choosing the right helmet is important. Read our Best Medieval Helmets for Combat, LARP & Display guide for expert advice

Best Medieval Helmets for Combat, LARP & Display (USA Buyer’s Guide)

Medieval helmets are more than historical artifacts — they are essential gear for combat reenactment, LARP, cosplay, and collectors. Choosing the wrong helmet can mean poor protection, discomfort, or wasted money.

In this USA-focused buyer’s guide, we’ll break down:

  • The best types of medieval helmets

  • Which helmets work for combat vs display

  • How to choose the right size and material

  • Where to buy authentic medieval helmets in the USA

If you’re looking for a functional medieval helmet that combines authenticity, safety, and craftsmanship, this guide is for you.

Medieval helmets for sale in the USA

1. What Makes a Good Medieval Helmet?

Before choosing a helmet, you must understand what separates decorative replicas from functional medieval helmets.

A high-quality medieval helmet should have:

  • 14–16 gauge steel (for combat use)

  • Hand-forged construction

  • Proper internal padding

  • Secure chin straps

  • Correct historical design

Many cheap helmets sold online are costume-only and not safe for reenactment or HEMA.

2. Best Types of Medieval Helmets (By Use Case)

🔹 Great Helm (Best for Knight Reenactment)

The Great Helm was widely used in the 12th–14th century by knights.

Best for:

  • Medieval reenactment

  • Display collections

  • Knight cosplay

Pros:

  • Iconic crusader look

  • Excellent face protection

Cons:

  • Limited visibility

  • Heavy for long wear

👉 Tip: Choose a Great Helm with ventilation holes and padded liner.

Great Helm medieval helmet

🔹 Bascinet Helmet (Best Overall for Combat)

The bascinet evolved to offer better mobility and vision.

Best for:

  • HEMA

  • Reenactment combat

  • Serious collectors

Pros:

  • Balanced protection

  • Better airflow

  • Can include visor

This is one of the most popular functional medieval helmets in the USA today.

Battle ready bascinet helmet

🔹 Viking Helmet (Best for LARP & Cosplay)

Authentic Viking helmets were simple and practical — no horns.

Best for:

  • LARP

  • Cosplay

  • Light reenactment

Pros:

  • Lightweight

  • Comfortable

  • Affordable

Make sure the helmet follows historical designs, not fantasy versions.

Viking helmet for LARP

🔹 Barbute Helmet (Best Visibility)

The barbute helmet offers a wide face opening and excellent vision.

Best for:

  • Combat reenactment

  • Stage performances

Pros:

  • Great field of vision

  • Classical medieval look

Barbute helmet for sale in USA

3. Combat Helmet vs Display Helmet (CRITICAL)

Not all medieval helmets are made equal.

Feature Combat Helmet Display Helmet
Steel Thickness 14–16 gauge 18–22 gauge
Padding Heavy padding Minimal
Safety Battle-ready Decorative
Price Higher Lower

👉 If you plan to fight or reenact, never buy display-only helmets.

4. How to Choose the Right Helmet Size

Helmet sizing is one of the most common problems buyers face.

Measure correctly:

  1. Use a measuring tape

  2. Measure around your head (above ears)

  3. Add padding allowance

Most adult helmets fit 22–24 inches head circumference, but custom sizing is ideal.

5. Steel, Padding & Craftsmanship (Don’t Skip This)

A truly authentic medieval helmet should include:

  • Mild steel or hardened steel

  • Riveted construction

  • Leather liner or arming cap

  • Adjustable chin strap

Hand-forged helmets last longer and look significantly better than factory-made replicas.

6. Are Medieval Helmets Legal in the USA?

Yes — medieval helmets are legal to own and wear in the USA.

However:

  • Wearing helmets in public spaces may attract attention

  • Check local event rules

  • Combat use must follow reenactment organization safety standards

7. Where to Buy Authentic Medieval Helmets in the USA

When buying a medieval helmet online, choose a store that:

  • Specializes in medieval armor

  • Ships reliably to the USA

  • Offers real product photos

  • Uses hand-forged craftsmanship

  • Provides clear return policies

👉 Avoid marketplaces with unclear steel thickness and no sizing info.

Visit Artisans Hub always welcome you.

8. Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Medieval Helmet

The best medieval helmet depends on your purpose:

  • Combat → Bascinet / Barbute

  • LARP → Viking Helmet

  • Display → Great Helm

Invest in quality craftsmanship, proper steel thickness, and authentic design. A good medieval helmet is not just armor — it’s a piece of history.

FAQ (ADD SCHEMA)

Q: Are medieval helmets battle ready?
A: Only helmets made with proper steel thickness and padding are suitable for combat.

Q: What is the best medieval helmet for beginners?
A: A bascinet helmet offers the best balance of protection and comfort.

Q: Do medieval helmets come in different sizes?
A: Yes, proper sizing is critical for comfort and safety.

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