Plate gloves
Plate gauntlets are among the most technically sophisticated components of medieval armour – they must provide maximum protection whilst maintaining finger mobility. Whether for re-enactment, exhibition combat or a historical collection: knowing what to look for when buying ensures you make the best choice.
What are gauntlets – and how do they differ from armoured mittens?
The term ‘gauntlet’ – also known as an iron glove or combat glove – refers to an armoured glove in which individual finger plates made of steel are riveted and sewn over an inner leather glove. Each finger is armoured separately and remains flexible. This is precisely the key difference from armoured mittens: these protect the thumb and the remaining four fingers as a single unit, which simplifies the construction but restricts dexterity.
A characteristic feature of certain historical types is the so-called hourglass shape at the wrist – an outwardly curved, funnel-shaped extension that provided additional protection for the wrist whilst preventing blade strikes from slipping off. This feature is particularly well documented on surviving originals from the 14th and early 15th centuries.
An overview of historical types: Gothic, Visby, Milanese and more
Gothic gauntlets
Slim, elegant lines with individual finger plates – the Gothic style is recognisable by its finely structured, almost sculptural surface. The finger joints are fully mobile and protected by overlapping steel plates.
Visby type
Named after the archaeological finds from the Viking Age on Gotland. A characteristic feature is the riveted plate structure, which protects a broad section of the back of the hand. The Visby Type III is considered the most elaborate and historically detailed version.
Milanese plate gauntlets
Originating from the northern Italian armour tradition: a wider, rounder shape with a smoother surface. Milanese gauntlets typically complemented the even, flowing lines of Milanese armour fashion.
Hourglass gloves
An hourglass-shaped extension at the wrist is the defining feature. Well-documented by well-preserved originals – re-creations of this type suitable for stage combat are particularly authentic for depictions of the late 14th century.
Materials and steel gauges: What do 1.1 mm, 1.3 mm and 1.6 mm mean in practice?
| Thickness / Gauge | Material | Suitability | Property |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.1 mm / 18 gauge | Carbon steel | Lightweight exhibition fighting | High flexibility, low weight – ideal for performances involving a lot of handwork |
| 1.3 mm / 18 gauge | Carbon steel | Reenactment | Good balance between protection and flexibility – the most common gauge in the range |
| 1.6 mm / 16 gauge | Carbon steel | Stage combat | Greater protection against direct hits, slightly heavier – recommended for active combat |
| 2.0 mm | Steel (Milanese) | Exhibition combat / Collectors | Maximum durability, noticeably heavier – for discerning re-enactors and collectors |
| Leather lining | Leather (stitched/riveted) | All types | Improves comfort and fit, absorbs shocks, prevents chafing |
The gauge system originates from the Anglo-American region and indicates sheet thickness on an inverse scale: the higher the gauge number, the thinner the material. 18 gauge corresponds to approximately 1.2–1.3 mm, 16 gauge to approximately 1.5–1.6 mm. Carbon steel is harder than stainless steel, but is more prone to rust if not properly maintained – regular oiling is essential. The leather lining in high-quality plate gloves is riveted and stitched, not simply inserted – you should look out for this detail when purchasing.
Price ranges and quality levels: From entry-level to historically detailed gloves
Armoured mittens with cuffs or simple plate gloves made from 1.3–1.6 mm steel. Solid workmanship, good for first-time buyers or as supplementary protection for existing armour. Single gloves (left or right only) are also available in this price range – handy if you wear a shield and only want to protect your sword hand.
Finger-articulated gauntlets with riveted leather lining in various historical styles – hourglass gauntlets c. 1390, late medieval Gothic gauntlets or 14th-century plate gauntlets in 16-gauge. Various colours (polished, black) available. For LARP players and re-enactors with a clear historical focus.
Visby Type III, Gothic gauntlets with intricate lamellar construction, plate gauntlets made from 1.3 mm steel, riveted and stitched to the highest standard of craftsmanship. Decorative pieces such as engraved or gold-embellished Marto gauntlets for historical collections also fall into this category. For discerning performers and collectors.
Plate gauntlets for re-enactment, exhibition combat and decoration: what goes with what?
- Minimum 1.3 mm steel thickness for active combat
- Fully movable finger joints required
- Riveted leather lining for support and cushioning
- Choose a historical style appropriate to the period being portrayed
- Check the product description for suitability for exhibition combat
- Ensure a good fit with plate armour and arm guards
- Decorative armoured gloves (Marto: engraved, gold-embellished) for collectors
- No combat use with decorative items
- LARP: check softer gauntlet alternatives made of leather or chain mail
- Chainmail gloves as an alternative for LARP with padded weapons
- Lambskin gloves for soft costume portrayals
- Visual effect: polished or blackened depending on the period
Fit, care and coordination with the overall armour
Plate gloves are typically available in sizes L (size 9, approx. 23–24 cm hand circumference) and XL (size 11, approx. 25–26 cm). The size specification in inches corresponds to the US glove sizing system – if in doubt, simply measure the hand circumference in cm and compare. A fit that is too tight significantly impairs the mobility of the finger plates.
For a harmonious overall armour set, it is advisable to coordinate the plate gauntlets with arm guards, neck guards and collars, as well as breastplates and armour. Ensure a consistent historical period: Gothic gauntlets look more harmonious with Gothic leg and shoulder plates than with Milanese armour components.
Care of steel: Carbon steel must be wiped dry after every use and regularly oiled with a light oil (e.g. weapon oil or Ballistol) – moisture tends to accumulate particularly at the rivet points. Store the leather lining in a dry place and treat it occasionally with leather grease to keep it supple and prevent it from tearing. Visually, you face the choice between polished (shiny, silvery) and blackened – blackened surfaces are historically verifiable for some period re-enactments, whilst polished pieces correspond to the classic image of a knight.
Are armour gloves weapons? Legal and practical information
In Germany, gauntlets do not generally fall under the Weapons Act – they are not prohibited items within the meaning of Annex 2 of the Weapons Act. However, their use as a striking instrument may become relevant under criminal law if they are used as a dangerous weapon. In the context of exhibition combat and re-enactment, they are clearly protective equipment, not weapons.
Carrying plate gloves in public without a valid reason can be problematic in certain situations – for example, if the authorities perceive this as aggressive behaviour. The clear recommendation: carry them in a bag or armour pouch, and use them exclusively at events, markets or authorised exhibition combat events.
In a historical and legal sense, a gauntlet is primarily protective equipment. The German Weapons Act does not recognise a general category of ‘striking gloves’ for medieval plate gauntlets – in contrast, for example, to specially designed combat gloves with metal studs. If in doubt, the rule is: wear them only at events, transport them securely, and if asked, explain that they are intended for use as re-enactment equipment.
With 32 models from Battle Merchant, Lord of Battles and House of Warfare, at Vehi Mercatus you’ll find plate gauntlets for every application – from a sturdy entry-level model with cuffs to the historically detailed Visby Type III. Combining them with a matching gambeson as under-padding or chainmail gauntlets underneath further improves fit and protection.
Frequently asked questions
Plate gloves protect each finger individually with movable plates – this provides greater freedom of movement when holding a sword. Armour gauntlets protect the thumb and remaining fingers as a single unit, making the construction more robust but less flexible. For active stage combat, finger-flexible plate gloves are usually the better choice; armoured mittens are well-suited as a cost-effective entry-level option or for performances where freedom of movement is less important.
For active exhibition fighting, a minimum of 1.3 mm (18 gauge) carbon steel is recommended – preferably 1.6 mm (16 gauge) for greater protection against direct hits. The specification ‘suitable for exhibition fighting’ in the product description is the most reliable indicator. Thinner gauges such as 1.1 mm are more suitable for light-duty performances or purely decorative use.
Most plate gloves are available in size L (size 9, approx. 23–24 cm hand circumference) and XL (size 11, approx. 25–26 cm). Measure your hand circumference at the widest point (across the knuckles, excluding the thumb) and compare it with the measurements provided for the respective product. A fit that is too tight significantly restricts the movement of the finger slats.
Carbon steel rusts more quickly than stainless steel and must be wiped dry after every use and regularly oiled with a light oil (e.g. gun oil or Ballistol) – particularly at the rivet points. The leather lining should be stored in a dry place and treated occasionally with leather grease to keep it supple. Gloves stored in damp conditions quickly develop stains on the metal parts and mould on the leather.
Medieval plate gloves do not generally fall under the Weapons Act in Germany and are not prohibited items. In the context of exhibition fighting and re-enactment, they are considered protective equipment. However, carrying them in public without a recognisable practical reason may be viewed as problematic – the clear recommendation is to transport them in a bag and use them exclusively at events.