Meet Erika the Red: Viking women were warriors too, say scientists

[Lummy]

A viking sword weighed about 5 lb. A viking shield weighed up to about 15 lbs, axe about 5 lb. Iron helmets were worn and sometimes heavy chainmail but more often thick, padded leather was worn for protection. One might guess that the total weight of viking war gear was about 35-40 lb. Wielding and swinging either a sword or axe would be physically very demanding work.

Not saying women couldn't or didn't do it, but carrying stuff seems for likely, and of course one can assume these women were trained and knew very well how to fight when need be and were probably good fighters. Such an asset to a viking would have given them high esteem among their peers.

I'm guessing.

[Dr. Who]

A viking sword weighed about 5 lb. A viking shield weighed up to about 15 lbs, axe about 5 lb. Iron helmets were worn and sometimes heavy chainmail but more often thick, padded leather was worn for protection. One might guess that the total weight of viking war gear was about 35-40 lb. Wielding and swinging either a sword or axe would be physically very demanding work.

Not saying women couldn't or didn't do it, but carrying stuff seems for likely, and of course one can assume these women were trained and knew very well how to fight when need be and were probably good fighters. Such an asset to a viking would have given them high esteem among their peers.

I'm guessing.

[Peter1469]

A viking sword weighed about 5 lb. A viking shield weighed up to about 15 lbs, axe about 5 lb. Iron helmets were worn and sometimes heavy chainmail but more often thick, padded leather was worn for protection. One might guess that the total weight of viking war gear was about 35-40 lb. Wielding and swinging either a sword or axe would be physically very demanding work.

Not saying women couldn't or didn't do it, but carrying stuff seems for likely, and of course one can assume these women were trained and knew very well how to fight when need be and were probably good fighters. Such an asset to a viking would have given them high esteem among their peers.

I'm guessing.

The kit that I carried was 156 pounds. I was 136 at this time.

[Dr. Who]

The kit that I carried was 156 pounds. I was 136 at this time.

No doubt that did long-term damage to your knees.

[roadmaster]

LOL ever since my oldest sister got that DNA test that has a strong % and yes she is redheaded, she has been looking up our ancestors the Vikings. I find it funny but she takes this mess serous.

[Peter1469]

No doubt that did long-term damage to your knees.

Knees, feet, lower back. But I wouldn't change a thing.

[Standing Wolf]

I was kind of hoping she would have been hotter. Do you think she worn the sexy outfit Wonder Woman wears?

Or maybe something more along the lines of Red Sonja?

[Captdon]

I doubt they existed. This doesn't pass the smell test.