Armor Type:  Helmet

Brief Description:  The sallet (or salade) was a revolutionary combat helmet that replaced the bascinet across Western and Northern Europe during the mid-15th century. Known for its elongated, flared back and sculpted lines, it offered excellent cranial protection while facilitating mobility and better peripheral vision for the wearer.

Key Characteristics and Design:

The Tail: The most distinct feature of the sallet is its prolonged back, which extends downward to protect the nape and upper neck. German models often featured sweeping, elongated tails, while Italian models generally favored a shorter, rounded profile.

The Visor / Sight: Sallets came in a variety of configurations. Many infantry versions were open-faced to allow uninhibited breathing and wide visibility. Knightly versions typically featured a pivoted visor or a "bellows-style" faceplate with integrated eye slits and ventilation.

The Bevor Integration: Because sallets generally only covered the head to about halfway down the face, they left the jaw and lower throat exposed. To achieve full head-to-neck protection, knights paired the sallet with a bevor—a separate piece of articulated steel plate worn over the throat and chin.

Lining: The helmet was secured with a leather chin strap and relied on a sewn, padded liner to distribute weight and absorb shock.