Quilted Medieval Mittens with Leather Palm, 12th–14th Century

Quilted Medieval Mittens with Leather Palm, 12th–14th Century

Historically Inspired High Medieval Hand Protection

The design is broadly inspired by simple textile and leather protective layers associated with medieval equipment. During the 12th–14th centuries, hand protection existed in several forms. In the 12th and 13th centuries, mail hand coverings attached to armour sleeves were among the solutions in use, while the 14th century saw increasingly developed metal and plate defences for the hands.

We therefore recommend treating this particular construction as a historically inspired reconstruction rather than an exact reproduction of one surviving archaeological object. A quilted textile layer is useful as a comfortable cushioning component and, where sufficient internal room is available, may also be worn beneath some forms of metal hand protection.

Quilted Back with a Supple Leather Palm

The back of the hand, finger area and extended wrist section are made from sturdy cotton canvas. Longitudinal rows of quilting hold the padding in place and distribute the soft protective layer across the glove. The padding is approximately 5.5 mm (0.22 in) thick.

The palm and gripping side of the thumb are covered with a single layer of soft, light brown natural leather. This reinforces the area most exposed to wear and provides a more direct feel on a weapon handle than a heavily padded textile palm would.

The pattern uses a roomy mitten construction with a separate thumb. Keeping the four fingers together creates a simple, robust form with generous internal space, although it naturally offers less independent finger dexterity than a five-finger glove.

Recommended Uses

• reenactment and living history inspired by the 12th–14th centuries,
• costumes for foot soldiers, mercenaries, guards and adventurers,
• LARP and theatrical use,
• controlled handling drills with swords, spears, axes and shields,
• as a soft under-layer beneath sufficiently roomy metal gauntlets, provided the combination fits correctly,
• cool-weather events where the padded textile also provides useful insulation.

Understanding the Level of Protection

The padding can help reduce abrasion, pressure points and lighter impacts, but it does not replace a modern protective fencing glove with rigid impact protection. These mittens are not suitable on their own for buhurt, Battle of the Nations, heavy full-contact combat or forceful sparring with steel weapons. Soft padding alone cannot reliably prevent fractures or joint injuries from powerful blows.

For HEMA and other contact fencing, always use protective equipment appropriate to the weapon, intensity and rules of the activity. We recommend these mittens primarily as a historically styled soft layer, costume accessory and hand covering for controlled activities.

Choosing the Correct Fit

This model is supplied in a broadly universal adult size. According to the measurement diagram, it is principally intended for a hand measuring approximately 23–24 cm (9.06–9.45 in) around. Measure around the widest part of your palm without including the thumb. The tape should sit against the hand without compressing it.

Technical Specifications

Natural leather may vary slightly in shade, grain, surface texture and minor irregularities from one pair to another. Small variations may also occur in stitching and the thickness of the soft padding. The sword, polearm and other accessories shown in the photographs are not included.

How to Wear the Mittens

• Push your hand fully into the mitten and make sure the thumb sits correctly inside its separate section.
• The glove should not strongly compress the fingers or restrict circulation.
• Before handling a weapon, check that you can close and release your grip securely.
• If wearing the mittens beneath metal gauntlets, test the complete combination before an event. The additional padding must not cause rigid armour to press dangerously against the fingers or knuckles.
• If the gloves become damp, allow them to dry completely before using them again.

Caring for the Cotton and Leather

• Because the product combines textile and natural leather, we recommend gentle local hand cleaning rather than full immersion.
• Clean the textile areas with a slightly damp cloth and, if required, a small amount of mild soap.
• Wipe the leather palm gently and avoid soaking the entire mitten.
• Do not machine wash or tumble dry.
• Allow damp gloves to air dry naturally at room temperature.
• Do not dry them on a radiator, beside a stove or open fire, or in strong direct sunlight. The leather may harden, shrink or crack.
• While drying, loosely fill the interior with absorbent paper if necessary to help retain the shape.
• Occasionally treat the leather palm with a small amount of suitable leather conditioner to keep it supple.
• Store the gloves clean and dry in a well-ventilated place.

Safety During Training and Combat

These padded mittens alone do not provide sufficient protection for forceful contact fencing. Inspect the stitching, leather and padding before every use. Stop using a mitten for training if it becomes torn or severely worn. For contact practice, wear hand protection appropriate to the weapon and intensity involved. Never rely on soft padding alone to protect against powerful blows from steel blades, guards, pommels or heavy polearms.

Recommended Accessories

• 12th–14th-century mail armour for a High Medieval fighting kit.
• 12th–14th-century gambeson as the main padded layer beneath armour.
• 12th–14th-century mail coif to complement a military reenactment outfit.
• 12th–14th-century style medieval belt and pouch for a complete costume.
• 14th-century style metal gauntlets for a higher level of hand protection where sufficient room is available for a suitable under-glove.
• For modern HEMA, we recommend dedicated protective fencing gloves specifically designed for the weapon and type of training concerned.