LARP swords
- Item out of stock
- Item out of stock
LARP swords are at the heart of every live-action role-playing adventure — the right padded weapon combines a realistic look with the safety that is essential at events. The Vehi Mercatus range features 23 models from Battle Merchant: from the compact tanto to the long two-handed sword, for Viking settings, fantasy adventures, ancient Roman scenarios and East Asian samurai worlds.
Construction and materials: What goes into a LARP foam weapon?
The core material of all LARP swords in this category is polyurethane foam (PU foam) — a material that has become the industry standard in the LARP scene because it combines two seemingly contradictory requirements: soft enough on impact to prevent injury, and dimensionally stable enough in continuous use to maintain a realistic blade shape over time.
Inside, a fibreglass core ensures rigidity and a balanced feel. Without this core, longer models would sag and feel imprecise in combat. In the range, you will come across two slightly different material specifications: ‘100% polyurethane foam’ and ‘100% polyurethane foam’. The difference lies in density and surface finish — polyurethane foam typically has a firmer, more abrasion-resistant outer skin, which gives the sword a more realistic appearance and a longer surface lifespan.
This combination of materials is no coincidence: PU foam with a fibreglass core is considered the recognised standard at most LARP events because it reliably meets the requirements of common rulebooks regarding foam thickness and core hardness. Nevertheless, it is advisable to check the relevant rulebook before each event — the exact requirements may vary.
Styles at a glance: From Viking to Katana
Viking line
Wide crossguard, characteristic Nordic blade shape and a balanced weight in the hand. These four models are suitable for Nordic settings and go just as well with Viking attire as with early medieval armour. Njorn and Eirwyn, each with a total length of 105 cm, are stately one-handed swords with genuine Nordic flair.
Fantasy & Knight Line
Fictional designs for fantasy settings and LARP systems of all kinds. Aelinor and Tharion are each available in three lengths (S/M/L), making them particularly versatile. The Caelric measures 109 cm in total length and weighs around 510 g — offering a well-balanced two-handed sword feel in the padded weapon class.
Antiquity & East Asia
The Tiberius Gladius is the short Roman sword for close-quarters combat scenarios in ancient or Roman settings — a perfect match for ancient-style equipment. The Takeshi series comprises Japanese-style katana, wakizashi and tanto with curved blades, available in S/M/L for samurai and anime LARP.
Care and durability: How to keep your foam weapon in good condition for longer
PU foam surfaces are sensitive to prolonged exposure to sunlight: UV light accelerates material fatigue and causes the surface to become brittle. Store your padded weapon in a dry, cool place away from light — a dark cupboard or a weapon bag indoors is ideal. Storing it in damp conditions can damage the surface structure over time.
A slightly damp cloth is sufficient for cleaning. Aggressive solvents, cleaning sprays or solvent-based substances attack the PU foam and can cause lasting damage to the surface structure. Abrasive cleaners should also be avoided. After events involving dirt, it is sufficient to wipe the weapon dry and, if necessary, wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth.
A quick visual inspection is advisable before each use: surface cracks, flaking or deformation in the blade area are the first warning signs. As soon as the fibreglass core becomes visible or is exposed, the weapon is no longer fit for use — an exposed core poses a safety risk and will be rejected by the weapons inspection at most events. If in doubt, replace it at an early stage.
A sword pouch or a padded bag protects the surface from mechanical damage caused by other equipment during transport. A dedicated weapon transport bag is particularly worthwhile for longer models measuring 100 cm or more. Suitable accessories for swords — including transport solutions — are available in the shop.
Which LARP sword is suitable for whom? Beginners to specialists
Anyone fighting at a LARP event for the first time would be well advised to choose the Aelinor or Tharion: both models are available in S/M/L, are easy to handle and offer an affordable entry-level price. The fantasy style suits most popular LARP systems. The range also includes shorter and lighter versions for children and teenagers.
For anyone venturing into a Norse or early medieval setting, the Sigurn, Haraldur, Njorn or Eirwyn are ideal. The characteristic blade shape and wide crossguard complement the Viking attire of the gentlemen and cut a fine figure in the army camp. A medieval shield is a suitable addition for a cohesive overall look.
Roman and Ancient settings: The Tiberius Gladius is the perfect complement to Lorica armour — short, handy, historically inspired. For East Asian or samurai settings, we recommend the Takeshi series with a curved blade as a katana, wakizashi or tanto. The complete LARP weapon range offers matching LARP shields to round off the package.
Safety on the playing field: What events and rulebooks require
PU foam with a fibreglass core is recognised as the standard at most LARP events. However, minimum requirements for foam thickness and core hardness may vary depending on the rules — well-known major events such as Conquest of Mythodea or Drachenfest define their own testing criteria. On-site weapon checks are standard practice at such events. Important: Padded weapons are not toys within the meaning of the Toy Safety Act, but are designed for organised LARP use. It is therefore worth checking the current rules for the respective event before each occasion.
Choosing the right length: sizes and reach
- Tanto (Takeshi S) and Gladius S as fast melee weapons
- Ideal as a secondary weapon on the belt
- Lighter and more manoeuvrable in combat
- Children’s versions in the range for young LARP beginners
- Lighter weight, well suited for beginners
- Sigurn (87 cm), Haraldur (85 cm): versatile one-handed swords
- Njorn and Eirwyn (105 cm each): Nordic flair with a reach advantage
- Caelric (109 cm, approx. 510 g): two-handed sword feel as a padded weapon
- Takeshi Katana L (up to €46.21): maximum reach in samurai style
- Lothair (103 cm): classic knight’s sword silhouette
Matching the weapon: putting together the complete LARP outfit
A LARP sword looks most convincing when paired with a harmonious overall outfit. A LARP shield makes a sensible addition to the padded weapon — whether a round Viking shield or a High Medieval Norman shield, the combination of sword and shield is both tactically and visually convincing on the playing field.
A gambeson is recommended as the basis for body protection and a cohesive look: it serves as a padded base layer beneath armour elements and looks authentic even without armour attached. Depending on the setting, LARP clothing and thematically appropriate armour pieces complete the overall look — from Viking tunics to fantasy armour. If you want to carry your sword securely on your person, you’ll also find belt holsters for swords and daggers in the shop, as well as other sword accessories such as carrying cases and sword pouches.
Whether you’re just starting out with your first LARP event or want to add a suitable padded weapon to your existing arsenal — browse through the range and find the right sword for your setting. Combine your new padded weapon with matching LARP clothing, a gambeson or a LARP shield for a cohesive overall look on the playing field.
Frequently Asked Questions
That depends on the specific rules of the event. Popular large-scale events such as Conquest of Mythodea or Drachenfest define their own minimum requirements for foam thickness and core hardness. Foam weapons made from PU foam with a fibreglass core are considered the accepted standard at most events — however, it is still advisable to check the current rules before registering.
For beginners, medium lengths between 85 and 95 cm are recommended — they are versatile, well-balanced and can be used as both one-handed and side arms. The Aelinor M and Tharion M models offer a good balance of reach and manoeuvrability and are suitable for most common LARP systems.
Both terms describe PU-based materials, but differ in density and surface texture. Polyurethane foam typically has a firmer, more abrasion-resistant outer skin, which gives the sword a more realistic finish and extends the surface’s lifespan. Both variants are suitable for normal use at LARP events.
The range includes shorter and lighter versions that are suitable for children and teenagers. However, padded weapons are not toys within the meaning of the Toy Safety Act, but are designed for organised LARP use. Parents should supervise their children’s use and check in advance whether the weapon meets the requirements of the respective event.
Surface cracks, chipping or deformation in the blade area are the first warning signs. As soon as the fibreglass core becomes visible or is exposed, the weapon must be taken out of service — an exposed core poses a safety risk and will not be permitted during weapon checks at most LARP events. If in doubt, it is better to replace it early.