Long Padded Arming Gambeson with Side Buckles | Cotton - Outlet
Are you ready for the heat of battle, a long march, or a tournament clash? Whether you're an agile archer relying on speed or a knight protected by plates of steel, the foundation of your gear is a proper gambeson – and this one definitely won't let you down! More information...
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Long Padded Arming Gambeson with Side Buckles | Cotton
Our gambeson is available in two classic options – timeless black and natural/beige. At first glance, its robust appearance is striking, thanks to the thick layer of padding and distinct vertical quilting, which keeps the filling in place while creating an authentic medieval design. A practical standing collar protects the neck, and lacing at the neck allows for individual adjustment. While the details of the side fastening aren't fully visible in the photo, it's a key feature – strong leather straps and durable brass buckles on the sides ensure the gambeson fits perfectly and adjusts to your body. The length, reaching mid-thigh or knee, provides protection for the torso and upper legs.
Key features and why you'll love them:
- Excellent protection and padding: The dense cotton felt padding effectively absorbs impacts, protects against blows, and prevents chafing from mail or plate armor worn over it.
- Durable and breathable material: The outer layer of strong cotton canvas withstands rough use. Thanks to the natural materials, the gambeson is more breathable than synthetic alternatives – an advantage you'll appreciate during any activity.
- Adjustable fit with side fastening: Leather straps with brass buckles on both sides allow for a perfect fit adjustment. This placement also avoids bulk under a breastplate.
- Comfort and mobility: Despite the thick padding, the cut is designed not to restrict your movement. The standing collar and neck lacing ensure comfort around the neck.
- Versatile use: Great as standalone light armor for roles requiring mobility (archers, light infantry) or as an essential underlayer beneath mail or plate armor for maximum protection and comfort.
- Honest handcrafting: Each piece is traditionally made, ensuring an authentic look. Please allow for slight variations in size – it's a sign of your gambeson's uniqueness!
- Wide range of sizes: Available in sizes from S to XXXL, ensuring a fit for almost every warrior (see size chart).
Historical insight:
- Who and when? The gambeson (also known as aketon, pourpoint, or wambais) was an absolutely fundamental and universal piece of protective clothing throughout the Middle Ages (roughly from the 11th/12th century into the Renaissance). It was worn by practically everyone – from common foot soldiers and archers, for whom it often represented the only torso protection, to knights and men-at-arms who used it as an essential padding and protective layer under metal armor.
- Interesting fact: The thickness of the padding and the type of quilting could vary. A gambeson intended to be worn under plate armor might be thinner but more densely quilted to minimize bulk, while a gambeson used as primary armor was often very thickly padded for maximum protection. Regardless of a warrior's wealth or status, the gambeson was the absolute foundation, without which wearing metal armor was not only uncomfortable but also dangerous.
How you can use it today:
This gambeson is the ideal choice for:
- LARP: Essential and often mandatory gear for most combat roles.
- Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA): As a padding layer under protectors or light armor.
- Reenactment / Living History: An authentic and functional basis for costumes from many historical periods.
- Cosplay: For creating faithful warrior and fantasy character costumes.
- Theatre and Film: As durable and period-looking costume piece.
Product care:
To keep your gambeson in service for as long as possible:
- Cleaning: Due to its thickness and padding, spot cleaning stains with a damp cloth and mild soap is ideal.
- Washing: If washing is absolutely necessary, hand wash only in cold water with a very gentle detergent. Rinse thoroughly. Protect leather and metal parts from excessive soaking.
- Drying: Do not tumble dry! Dry flat or hanging on a wide hanger to prevent distortion from weight. It may take a long time to dry completely. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources. Treat leather parts with a leather conditioner after drying.
In conclusion:
This isn't just a piece of clothing – it's your second skin on the battlefield, the foundation of your resilience, and a symbol of your readiness. Get a gambeson that will support you in every situation, provide the necessary protection, and allow you freedom of movement. Put it on, fasten the buckles, and set out for adventure with the confidence of having the right gear!
This gambeson is handcrafted, sizes will vary slightly - so these measurements should be taken as approximations.
Size: S
- Chest Size: 946mm
- Length from Neck to Bottom: 1050mm
- Weight: 2720 g
Size: M
- Chest Size: 1028mm
- Length from Neck to Bottom: 1099mm
- Weight: 3210 g
Size: L
- Chest Size: 110mm
- Length from Neck to Bottom: 1099mm
- Weight: 3500 g
Size: XL
- Chest Size: 1187mm
- Length from Neck to Bottom: 1099mm
- Weight: 3560 g
Size: XXL
- Chest Size: 1266mm
- Length from Neck to Bottom: 1099mm
- Weight: 3630 g
A high-quality product made by Lord Of Battles®
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