Armor Type:  Helmet

Brief Description:  The medieval nasal helmet—famously worn by Norman knights features a conical dome and a single, protruding metal strip (the nasal) that protects the nose. This open-faced design provided vital facial defense while ensuring excellent peripheral vision and breathability for early medieval warriors. Developed in Western Europe during the late 9th century and remaining prominent through the 13th century, this design became an iconic piece of early medieval warfare.

Its core characteristics include:

The Dome: Early helmets were often made from segmented metal plates (spangenhelm) riveted together, while later versions were hammered from a single sheet of iron or steel for superior impact deflection.

The Nasal Guard: The defining feature is a prominent central bar extending down from the browband or skull, designed to protect the nose and central face from downward strikes.

The Coif: Because it left the cheeks, mouth, and neck exposed, a nasal helmet was almost universally worn over a padded cap and a mail coif (chainmail hood). Some versions included an integrated aventail (a curtain of mail) to protect the neck.

Interior Lining: Historical models and modern reproductions typically use an inner leather suspension liner and an adjustable leather chin strap to secure the helm and distribute its weight.