Welsh Longbowman Costume of Crécy

Medieval Welsh Longbowman Costume of Crécy with Dagged Hood

Historical Context and Usage

Around 1346, in the early phases of the Hundred Years' War, Welsh longbowmen formed the deadly backbone of the English army. Their massive longbows could pierce the previously impenetrable French knightly plate armor. The typical attire of these common but highly valued soldiers was a long, practical tunic gathered at the waist with a leather belt, and a hood (chaperon) protecting the shoulders and head from the harsh island weather. A significant fashion element of the 14th century was the hood drawn out into a very long tail, known as a liripipe. The combination of two colors, known as mi-parti, was extremely popular throughout Europe during the High and Late Middle Ages.

Today, this garment is perfectly suited for medieval battle reenactments, fantasy or historical LARPs, or as a stylish outfit for archery tournaments. However, please remember that this is standard textile clothing, not protective armor (it is not a padded gambeson). If you plan to engage in contact fencing or heavy combat clashes, it is essential for your safety to wear hidden modern protectors or a padded jacket underneath the costume. Never use this garment as your sole body protection against weapon strikes.

Material and Proper Care

The costume is tailored from two different material options, both fully reflecting period realities. The first option is durable and soft-to-the-touch duvetyn (100% cotton with a brushed velvet-like finish). In this cotton variant, the edge of the cape is beautifully cut into leaf shapes (known as dagging). The second choice is warm 100% wool, which will keep you dry and warm even during cold nights in the castle camp. Please note that for manufacturing reasons, the edge of the wool cape is cut straight, without the leaf-shaped dagged decoration.

• Cotton Duvetyn: Can be washed very gently by hand or in a washing machine on a delicate cycle at a maximum temperature of 30 °C (86 °F). Never dry the garment in a tumble dryer and avoid using aggressive bleach. Ironing is recommended only on the reverse side on a low heat setting.
• Wool Variant: To preserve the long lifespan, insulating properties, and color saturation, professional dry cleaning is exclusively recommended. Wool has a strong tendency to shrink if washed improperly.

The photographs show additional period equipment, such as a longbow, a quiver with arrows, a leather bracer, gloves, a belt, a pouch, a hat, and leather shoes. These accessories are not included in the delivery. However, we highly recommend completing your archery set with a high-quality leather quiver and a sturdy bracer from our selection, which will create a perfect and fully functional outfit together with the costume.

Product Specifications

This Welsh longbowman costume is also manufactured in other color combinations upon request, according to our fabric swatches. Simply note your desired color in your order in the comments field (please always state the swatch number, the color letter, and its name, e.g., 03-A-Yellow). If a fabric with a different composition is selected, any potential price adjustment is always consulted with you before the order is processed.

The garment is available in standard sizes, or it is custom-tailored exactly to your measurements at no extra charge. For custom tailoring, simply fill out the respective measurement chart carefully after completing your order. For this specific product, measurement points 8a, 8c, 8d, 8e, 8q, 8r, and 8x will be perfectly sufficient.