Charles de Blois Gambeson – Black Arming Doublet (14th–15th C.)
Are you looking for a gambeson that offers unrestricted movement while looking sleek? This black arming doublet, based on the famous surviving garment of Charles de Blois (c. 1364), is a masterpiece of historical tailoring. Designed specifically to be worn under plate armour (a style known as a pourpoint), its specialized cut makes it equally perfect for HEMA training. The black colour is not only stylish but highly practical, as it hides oil stains from armour and general grime much better than lighter fabrics. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Charles de Blois Gambeson – Black Arming Doublet (14th–15th C.)
The "Grand Assiette" Advantage
The standout feature of this gambeson is the Grand Assiette (large plate/dish) sleeve construction. The armholes are cut deeply into the torso, allowing you to raise your arms into high guards or deliver powerful strikes without pulling the bottom hem of the jacket up. This ensures your armour stays properly positioned and you remain covered during dynamic combat.
Designed for Armour
The doublet fastens with a dense row of fabric-covered buttons. This is a crucial historical detail: metal or wood buttons would dig into your chest under the pressure of a breastplate. Fabric buttons flatten comfortably under armour to prevent injury. The padding is relatively thin (approx. 0.6 cm) to act as a cushioning layer without adding excessive bulk.
Technical Specifications
- Outer Material: 100% Cotton (Black canvas)
- Padding: Cotton/Polyester blend (light padding)
- Thickness: approx. 0.6 cm (0.24")
- Cut: Grand Assiette for maximum mobility
Size Chart
Please note: measurements below refer to the garment dimensions. "Chest" refers to the full circumference of the garment.
| Size | Chest Circumference | Total Length | Shoulder Width | Sleeve Length |
| M | approx. 110 cm (43.3") | 79 cm (31.1") | 31.5 cm (12.4") | 71 cm (28") |
| L | approx. 114 cm (44.9") | 81 cm (31.9") | 32 cm (12.6") | 75 cm (29.5") |
| XL | approx. 120 cm (47.2") | 83 cm (32.7") | 32 cm (12.6") | 74 cm (29.1") |
| 2XL | approx. 126 cm (49.6") | 84 cm (33.1") | 34 cm (13.4") | 76 cm (29.9") |
| 3XL | approx. 132 cm (52") | 87 cm (34.3") | 36 cm (14.2") | 78 cm (30.7") |
Care Instructions
To keep your gambeson fresh and functional:
- Washing: Machine wash in cold water (max. 30°C / 85°F) on a gentle cycle to prevent shrinking. Use detergent for black clothes.
- Hand Wash: Preferred for longevity. Use a soft brush for stubborn stains.
- Drying: Air dry only. Do not tumble dry.
Recommended Accessories
This pourpoint is designed to pair with plate armour leg harness and arm harness. It is the perfect foundation for a late 14th-century knightly kit.
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