15th Century Arming Doublet | Quilted Gambeson for Plate Armour

15th Century Arming Doublet | Quilted Gambeson for Plate Armour

The Key to a Perfect and Functional Harness

This arming doublet is precisely crafted based on historical patterns from the late medieval period. Its design is entirely subordinated to its function – to serve as a sturdy and reliable foundation for a complete suit of plate armour.

Construction and Material

The outer and inner layers are made from heavy-duty cotton canvas, which is highly resistant to wear and tear. The padding consists of a triple-layer of quilted cotton, which expertly absorbs impacts and protects your body from bruising and chafing from the steel plates. The entire doublet fastens with a front lace-up closure using sturdy cords, allowing for a perfect, adjustable fit. The high stand-up collar effectively protects the neck and throat. Its shorter, waist-length cut ensures maximum mobility at the hips and the correct seating of a cuirass and tassets.

Arming Points

The most critical feature is the integrated laces with metal tips (aglets), known as "arming points". You will find these robust laces on the shoulders, arms, and waist. They are used to firmly and securely tie on pauldrons, vambraces, tassets, and cuisses.

Available in three colours: Natural, Red, and Black.

Who Wore the Arming Doublet and When?

The Foundation of the Knight's Armour

In the 15th century, the gambeson evolved from an often-thicker padded garment into this more sophisticated arming doublet. Its primary purpose was no longer just padding, but to provide a stable and strong base to which the entire suit of plate armour could be tied. This system ensured that the armour moved with the knight's body, dramatically increasing his mobility and combat effectiveness.

A Fascinating Fact from History

Thanks to the elaborate system of tying armour to the doublet, knights in full plate were surprisingly agile. The myths of clumsy knights who couldn't get up if they fell are largely untrue. A well-fitted suit of armour, properly secured to a quality doublet, allowed a warrior to run, jump, and even mount a horse without assistance.

Ideal for Any Historical Event

This arming doublet is an absolute necessity for anyone serious about historical martial pursuits. It is perfect for:

• Historical Reenactment and 15th-century battle scenarios
• LARP (Live Action Role Playing) characters such as knights, mercenaries, or men-at-arms
• HEMA (Historical European Martial Arts)
• Theatrical and film productions requiring a high degree of historical accuracy
• Collectors aiming to assemble a complete and functional suit of armour

How to Care for Your Doublet

To ensure your doublet retains its shape, colour, and functionality for years to come, we recommend the following care:

• Cleaning: Spot clean stains with a damp cloth and mild soap whenever possible.
• Washing: If absolutely necessary, hand wash only in cold water. Using a washing machine can permanently damage and deform the internal padding.
• Drying: Never use a tumble dryer! Dry flat, ideally on a towel, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Ironing: Not recommended.

Size Chart

Please measure yourself carefully and choose your correct size from the table below. Measurements are provided in both centimetres (cm) and inches (in).