15th century arming doublet, red

Product description

This close-fitting doublet is made from sturdy canvas cotton. Arming doublets were worn under plate armor from the 15th century onwards. The laces on the doublet allow armor components to be attached directly to it. The arming doublet evolved from the gambeson and the 14th-century pourpoint. The interior is padded, providing protection against blows to armor pieces. In the late Gothic style (1450–1500), arming doublets often included voiders and a chainmail skirt (gousset). In late-15th-century Italy, arming doublets also became a civilian fashion: men who were not knights wore them, likely because the garment suggested status and knighthood.

The doublet was worn with trousers or chausses, which were laced directly to the doublet. Typical features include a close-fitting cut, a small standing collar, and a closed or buttoned front. Originally, the doublet was worn as a high-necked under-jacket. During the Renaissance, necklines became lower and doublets more richly decorated. A light shirt or undershirt was usually worn beneath the doublet. Numerous depictions of doublets from the late Middle Ages and Renaissance exist, for example in the Codices Palatini Germanici 466. This doublet can be worn under armor in a historically accurate manner and includes aiglets to attach arm and leg armor.

This doublet has no inner padding, making it very suitable for medieval reenactment battles in summer. Ideal for 14th–15th-century reenactment.