Boffer LARPs

By the simplest definition, a boffer LARP is a LARP in which fighting with boffer weapons is a primary aspect of the game. Boffer weapons are replica medieval weapons, such as sword, maces, and the like, that are constructed from foam or latex. Naturally, getting hit with one of these is quite safe, with the worst injuries generally limited to minor bruising or welts. In fact, the sport of boffer fighting is often regarded as safer than most modern team sports.

As I’ve mentioned before, I was initially dubious about boffer LARPing. Having been a die-hard tabletop and video gamer, the idea of dressing up in funny clothes and going at other players with padded piping and hacky sacks was very alien to me. Nonetheless, when I finally gave it a try, I was immediately hooked, due in no small part to the realism of getting attacked with a boffer weapon.

Though my first boffer LARP has since ended, I am now looking forward to new LARPs in the near future. In anticipation of playing, I recently put in an order for my very first high-end boffer sword from Iron Liege, pictured right. Greg, the man who runs the site, is a friend of mine and a fantastic artist when it comes to creating boffer weapons. I only hope I’ll be able to do the sword justice when it comes time to use it in play.