Knights, Jess H

The Battle of Hasting

Jan 1, 1066

The battle of Hasting was fought between Norman Knights and the English infantry, it is one of the earliest wars recored with knights on horse-back.

Knights of the Middle Ages

Period: Jan 1, 1066 to Feb 1, 1400

Armour Update

Feb 25, 1100

In the Late 1100's the Knights updated their Armor so the knights could fight easier, this included: Cone-shaped helmet with nose strip
Long chainmail suit with sleeves
Large kit shaped shield
Padded Wollen Tunic

Armour Update

Feb 27, 1170

Knights Armour was again updated for easier use.
Helmet is rounder with a thicker nose-band
Loose fitting surcoat was worn over the chainmail for protection from the sun
The knights wore their coat of arms for easy identification
Hauberk now covers the neck and shoulders and is attached to the helmet with leather straps
Chain mail mittens were added
Shield is a little smaller and more triangular
Chain mail now also covers feet

Armour Update

Jan 1, 1300

Bascinet helmets were worn by late 1300s with visors that can be lifted
Hammered iron plates were added for extra protection
The weight of the armour also became so much that if a knight fell over he couldn’t get up on his own
The shields became smaller and curved
Knights now wear iron gloves
Padded stockings were worn with iron braces

Armour Update

Jan 1, 1400

The whole suit weight about 25kilograms
Lighter helmets were worn
Plate armour covers whole body, joined with metal rivets and leather strips
No need for a shield anymore
Iron shoes