Mail Armor

Medieval Mail Armor

While mail armor was invented as early as 300 BCE, it was perfected in the Middle Ages (Holmes). Medieval smiths pioneered many new techniques, such as the simple, effective, and easy to make 4-in-1 pattern (Livingston). European mail was also made with a higher percentage of ‘riveted’ links, which were stronger than solid links. This made Medieval mail much stronger and more effective than earlier versions of mail. The links in mail armor from the Middle Ages were also flattened with a hammer making the armor more comfortable and more resistant to attacks (Holmes).

Decline of Mail Armor

While mail was very effective in protecting its wearer, it was also expensive and took a long time to produce, meaning it was only worn by knights (Fordham University). Eventually, plate armor, which was cheaper, became more economically viable, leading to its more widespread use and mail's eventual decline (Howard).

Modern Use of Mail

Though mail is no longer used in warfare, it still has some applications today. Mail is commonly used in some protective equipment, and is even used to make shark-proof SCUBA diving suits for researchers studying sharks (Holmes). Mail is also a common item in popular culture and a staple of the fantasy genre. The Medieval Era was a time of innovation, and many other important inventions were created as well. Castles, waterwheels, longbows, and even the mechanical clock all originated in the Middle Ages. This shows that though the Medieval Era is often referred to as the "Dark Ages", it was not as dark as it might have seemed.