Getting the right size Segmentata?

[Gaius Colletti]

I am looking to get a set of segmentata, but am completely unsure about what size to get. I have previously owned a Roman Muscle cuirass, but it was so wide that I could not comfortably keep my arms down at my sides without having them irritatingly rub on the bottom of the arm opening.

I have a size 42" chest and and 35" midsection. I understand that segmentata is very uncomfortable to wear with all the plate edges, and most people wear a submarmalis with it. If I plan on getting a subarmalis, what size armor should I get? I have heard at least one person say they had a 43" chest and Deepeeka's segmentata fit fine. I just want to get something relatively comfortable (or as comfortable as armor gets). The muscle cuirass ended up being absolutely useless as it was meant for someone with a 50" chest, and unhumanly broad shoulders.

Is there a trick with segmentata, perhaps always order a certain number of sizes above your own chest? Thanks

[Gaius Colletti]

Sorry, I meant to post this in the reenactment section, could a moderator please move it. Thanks

[PhilusEstilius]

In another topic about segmentata I have mentioned that in the past I have made a great deal of this type of armour, and where you mention that your chest is 42 inch waist 35 inch I would up these measurements by one inch on each to give comfort when marching to allow for chest expansion.
I'm sorry but I do not make armour any more now but as far as subarmalis this is not realy needed just a shoulder or neck scarf to give a little bit of padding.

[jvrjenivs]

Well, I still think the best thing is to get a subarmalis first (if you want to use one under your segmentata), or at least everything you would like to wear under your segementata. You can now easily make a cardboard mockup of a segmentata, for instance using the plans on here http://www.larp.com/legioxx

Use this mockup to check sizes and walk a bit around, etc. Next you can either make a perfectly fitting one yourself, or use the size of your mockup for ordering one.

[Matthew Amt]

I think Deepeeka still offers only one size, though it might have 2 or 3 by now. Pretty sure the Daniyal one is available in several sizes. If what is offered is about your size, and you don't know of anyone who already has it so that you could try it on, all you can do is make sure that the vendor has a good return policy in case you need to return it! (And you won't get the shipping refunded, in any case.)

Making your own is usually a better idea! The subarmalis only needs padding on the shoulders, so it doesn't add much bulk around the chest. But definitely best to have that before measuring for armor.

Sorry, but "off the shelf" is still not a perfect solution for every piece of kit!

Matthew

[Gaius Colletti]

Ahh, so the subarmalis is really just needed for the shoulders in the segmentata? (though understandably a whole body size for hamata) Thanks for the help guys

[Matthew Amt]

http://www.larp.com/legioxx/subarm.html

[M. Demetrius]

The subarmalis (under the armor, loose translation) is also useful for making a barrier between the armor and your brand new tunic. Metal rubbing against cloth, and oils from the armor plates can make permanent stains. If it stains the sub, oh, well, that's what it's for. If it stains your 200 dollar hand woven tunic, well, that's another matter, right? If you make one, be sure there is extra padding over the point of your shoulder. That's the place that will take a lot of the weight.