Viking Shields

Characteristics of the Viking Shields

Viking shields can come in a variety of sizes, but they are usually round. The most common shields were made of solid pieces of wood connected by metal bands. At the back, Viking shields had rope or leather straps for handling during battle.

Umbo in Viking Shields

Generally, Viking warriors did not make weapons or shields because most of them were looted on the battlefield. Therefore, most of the time Viking shields were different from one warrior to another. However, a common feature of all shields was the metal umbo on the front.

Decoration Viking Shields

Modern replicas of Viking shields can be functional or decorative. Functional replicas are used for combat recreation and LARP battles. These types of shields are prepared to take hits and can be made of wood, metal or foam.

The decorative Viking shields had designs on the front. They are very nice to use in parades or to hang on the wall.