Although battle attire for soldiers has advanced dramatically since these bygone days
, chain maille has not disappeared entirely. It still has several modern applications.
Protection
Rather than sword-wielding knights, today's wearers of chain maille include butchers, scuba divers and woodcarvers. Research also suggests that chain maille would work well in the fabrication of bullet proof vests, although the issue of the added weight has proved to be a formidable obstacle.
Reenactment
You have likely seen chain maille in action if you have ever attended your local Renaissance Festival. Many dedicated enthusiasts don the heavy gear either for historical accuracy or for actual protection during their battle reenactments. Chain maille garments are also often available for purchase at these events but as they tend to be quite expensive, they are typically only picked up by the ardent collector.
Jewelry
The intricate design and craftsmanship of chain maille has turned it into a popular style of fashion jewelry. There hundreds of variations in patterns as well as entire organizations devoted to the practice of this art work. Many also act as vendors, catering to do-it-yourselfers by offering items such as individual metal rings, tools for crafting and tips on the latest weaving techniques. For those of us who prefer to leave the hard work to the experts, many designers sell their own handmade chain maille jewelry.
From the early days of human civilization to modern times, chain maille has survived as a useful technological tool.