The Greek hoplon, an ingenious convex shield, wasn't just wood – it was layered with bronze, a clever trick that made it both lightweight and tough. This layering technique, called lamination, was key. It allowed the hoplon to absorb the shock of a blow without weighing the soldier down. 

For the Vikings – their round shields were no afterthought. These shields were constructed with wood planks cleverly joined together and covered with leather or rawhide for durability, often painted  in vivid colours. They'd even add a central metal boss,. like a built-in shield guard, for a better fit with an un-armoured forearm. Every step in these crafting methods reveals the incredible thoughtfulness of these ancient artisans. They weren't just building shields; they were creating tools perfectly tailored to the fighting styles of their era. Luckily, some of this has been documented, through, for instance the Oseberg Tapestry, which Epic Armoury used to create the GastiR Shield in collaboration with Lejre Land of Legends, a Danish centre for historical-archaeological research and communication.

In Africa, the Zulu had massive oval shields made of cowhide. These weren't just for deflecting blows but also powerful symbols of the Zulu tribe's identity. They used them in battle, of course, but also in ceremonies and displays of tribal pride.

Across the ocean, Native American warriors took a different approach. Their shields were often small and round. These shields were like canvases decorated with symbols and stories with deep personal and tribal meanings. They believed these decorations offered spiritual protection alongside the physical barrier.

Learn how to customise your larp shield to display your colours like the knights of old.