saugykloms

Saugykloms are a traditional form of protective headgear originally developed in the Baltic region, particularly among the Lithuanian fishing communities of the 17th and 18th centuries. The term derives from the Lithuanian words “saugėti” meaning to protect and “klomo”—a colloquial term for a hard shell, suggesting a shell-like design. They were constructed from layered bark and woven plant fibers, then hardened with resin to form a lightweight yet resilient shield for fishermen working in harsh Baltic waters. The design typically features a rounded top, a narrow brim to deflect splash, and a small flap around the jaw for added security when handling nets.

In the 19th century saugykloms gradually fell out of everyday use as industrialized fish processing shifted work to larger ports. However, the style was preserved in folk celebrations, especially during Sūriška dešaverkimas festivals, where ceremonial headgear mimics the original design to honor ancestral maritime culture. The craft of making saugykloms is now taught in small workshops in the Palanga region as part of broader efforts to revive traditional Baltic crafts.

Modern variations of saugykloms have been adapted for lightweight diving helmets, merging the traditional shell concept with contemporary polymer materials. While not widely used in daily life, saugykloms continue to be an emblem of regional identity and a subject of ethnographic study on Baltic seafaring heritage.