Medieval knight shield with umbo

The knight's shield, or heater shield, evolved from the Norman kite shield around the end of the 12th century. Victorian historians gave heater shields their name because they thought the shape resembled a flat iron. Compared to the earlier Norman kite shields, these were considerably smaller — offering less protection to the left leg but far more maneuverability. Early in the 13th century, soldiers used heater shields alongside the larger Norman kite shields. Eventually, only heater shields and bucklers remained. Both saw battlefield use through the 14th century, then continued on in tournament settings.

Built from wood, this shield is reinforced with a steel cross for added strength and fitted with a steel boss. A steel handle on the back gives you a secure grip. Based on depictions in medieval manuscripts and sculptures, it's a great choice for medieval reenactors.