Did vikings have chain mail
The Vikings did not typically wear chain mail, at least not in the classical sense. Chain mail, also known as chain armor, is a type of armor made from interlocking iron rings that are linked together to form a protective garment.
While the Vikings did wear armor, their armor was typically made from other materials, such as:
- Leather: Leather was a common material for Viking armor, particularly for helmets, shields, and body armor. Leather was durable, flexible, and relatively inexpensive.
- Iron: The Vikings did use iron for their armor, but it was often in the form of plates or scales rather than chain mail. These plates or scales were often riveted or sewn onto a leather or fabric backing.
- Scale armor: Scale armor was a type of armor made from overlapping scales or plates of metal, often made from iron or steel. This type of armor was popular among the Vikings and was often worn by warriors and nobles.
- Lamellar armor: Lamellar armor was a type of armor made from horizontal or vertical strips of metal, often made from iron or steel, that were sewn or riveted together to form a protective garment.
There are a few reasons why the Vikings may not have used chain mail:
- Cost: Chain mail was a relatively expensive material, and the Vikings may not have had access to the resources or wealth to produce it on a large scale.
- Technology: The technology for producing chain mail was not as well-developed in the Viking era as it was in other parts of Europe. The Vikings may not have had the skills or tools to produce high-quality chain mail.
- Alternative materials: The Vikings had access to other materials, such as leather and iron, that were well-suited for armor and may have been preferred over chain mail.
It's worth noting that while the Vikings did not typically wear chain mail, there are some examples of chain mail being used in Viking-age Scandinavia. For example, a few examples of chain mail have been found in Viking-age burials and hoards, and there are some depictions of chain mail in Viking-age art. However, these examples are relatively rare and may have been used by specific individuals or groups rather than being a widespread practice.