How heavy was a full suit of armor?

The weight of a full suit of armor can vary greatly depending on the type of armor, the period in history, and the specific design, but here's a general breakdown of the weights of different types of medieval armor:

1. Plate Armor (Late Medieval Period)

• Weight: Typically 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg).
• Description: This is the type of armor most commonly associated with knights and heavy cavalry from the late medieval period (14th-15th centuries). It covers the whole body, including the head, torso, arms, and legs, with solid metal plates.
• Variability: The weight could fluctuate based on the specific design of the armor, the materials used, and any additional protective gear (e.g., gauntlets, greaves).

2. Full Plate Armor (Renaissance to Early Modern Period)

• Weight: Around 50-60 pounds (22-27 kg), but it could be slightly lighter or heavier depending on the complexity.
• Description: Full plate armor from the Renaissance period (16th century) was even more refined, with highly polished plates and some more advanced features, like articulated joints that allowed for greater mobility.
• Weight Distribution: The weight was spread out across the whole body, but the helmet, breastplate, and gauntlets often felt the heaviest.

3. Field Armor (For Battle and Combat)

• Weight: Typically 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg).
• Description: This was the most commonly worn armor for battle. It was a compromise between protection and mobility, with a solid chestplate, arm & leg armor, and a helmet. It often didn’t have the full protection of ceremonial armor, leaving areas like the armpits or neck more exposed for better movement.

4. Combat Armor (14th Century and Earlier)

• Weight: 35-45 pounds (16-20 kg).
• Description: Earlier armors from the 13th and 14th centuries were often a mix of chainmail and plate armor. Chainmail itself was lighter than plate but offered less protection. Some soldiers, especially in the early stages of full plate armor, used lighter variants with more flexible designs.

5. Plate Mail with Chainmail (Early Armor)

• Weight: Can range from 30-45 pounds (13-20 kg) depending on the combination of chainmail and plate armor.
• Description: This style of armor typically included a mix of chainmail for flexibility, with metal plates on the most vulnerable areas (such as the chest, shoulders, and knees). It was common in the 11th-13th centuries.

Additional Considerations:

• Weight Distribution: A key factor in how heavy a suit of armor feels isn’t just the total weight but how the weight is distributed. For example, a well-designed suit of armor with padded linings and well-placed straps might feel less cumbersome than an ill-fitting one of the same weight.

• Mobility: Although plate armor was heavy, it was designed to allow for maximum mobility, especially in battle. The joints were articulated (think elbows, knees, and shoulders) to allow knights to move, ride horses, and fight without much restriction. However, the weight could make long periods of standing or marching uncomfortable.

• Helmets: Helmets, especially the Great Helm or Bascinet, were often heavy themselves, weighing between 5-10 pounds (2-4.5 kg), and sometimes even more with visors or additional face protection.

• Materials: The type of material used also affects the weight. Some armor was made of steel, while others might use iron, brass, or copper alloys. Steel armor was generally the heaviest and most durable, while others might be lighter but offer less protection.

Summary:

• Full plate armor: Around 45-55 pounds (20-25 kg).
• Late medieval armor: Around 35-45 pounds (16-20 kg).
• Earlier armor (chainmail with partial plates): Around 30-45 pounds (13-20 kg).

While the weight of armor might seem heavy, it was designed to protect soldiers while allowing them to function effectively in combat. Some knights, especially in the late medieval and Renaissance periods, became accustomed to this weight, with fitness training often playing a role in their ability to move efficiently in full armor.