Leather Harness

“The leather harness, also called a kurbul, is a light ensemble of armor that is favored by soldiers and mercenaries. It offers good protection for the price.”
— Lismyna Salter, Nostrian warrior, 1033 FB

Leather harness, the most common variant of leather armor, is made from wax-hardened, boiled leather. This process gives the leather a wood-like texture that protects well against most attacks. However, its tendency to trap body heat makes it more common in the north. Its low cost makes it popular with mercenaries and other lessaffluent warriors. The armor’s shoulder segments make the wearer look broader and therefore more intimidating. While not as tough as full plate armor, leather harness offers almost as much protection as mail. Compared to mail, it is much easier to fix, and most repairs often require only a simple sewing kit.

People in the south prefer Iryan armor, but leather harness is less expensive. Wyvernskin, a variant of leather harness, is much more affordable but carries an extremely unpleasant stench.

“I used to wear leather harness. Even an unemployed mercenary can afford it. Sure, there are better kinds of armor, but leather is a good starting choice.”

— Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary

“Many glade elves wear leather harness in battle. I once encountered some leather armor that reeked so badly we could smell it five miles away, upwind. Do you know of what I speak?”

— Layariel Treetopglint, elven wyldrunner

“Yes. Wyvernskin, as it is called, is tanned in a bath of pungent fluids that I won’t mention in polite company. The resulting stench clings to the armor for years.”

— Geron Bladebreaker, mercenary

“If I ever go to war, I think I’d want to wear leather harness. It’s not as bulky and noisy as chainmail and it protects against blades.”

— Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond