Crusader cauldron hat with straps, 1.6 mm (battle-ready)

Product description

Kettle hats like this one appeared during the Crusades, around the late 12th to early 13th century. Soldiers may have adopted this helmet style from Byzantine armies, who wore similar helmets in a longer style. They were worn alongside nasal helmets. Like spangenhelmets, these helmets were made from multiple pieces. This style remained in use until the early 14th century, and various versions appear in the Maciejowski Bible from 1250.

Multi-piece kettle hats were ideal for infantry: cheap to produce and easy to repair during campaigns. This design proved so effective that even aristocrats wore it. The wide brim protected against downward strikes and projectiles, delivering excellent visibility, good hearing, and strong overall protection.

By the early 14th century, the kettle hat evolved into more advanced forms made from a single piece of steel. The brim became more sloped, deflecting projectiles from above and reducing impact on both the helmet and the wearer's head.

This kettle hat is based on a 1230 illustration of an infantryman by Villard de Honnecourt, who lived in 13th-century Picardy in northern France. In the illustration, the soldier also wears a hauberk, knee guards, and an over-tunic.

Made from 2 mm thick steel, the helmet features a wide brim for extra protection against projectiles. It weighs about 1.8 kg and includes a leather liner and chin strap. It fits a maximum head circumference of 61 cm.

Made from 1,6 mm thick steel and reinforced with steel bands, this kettle hat includes a leather inlay, a chin strap with buckle, and fits head circumferences up to 61 cm. It weighs approx. 3,35 kg.