Medieval gambeson, black

Product description

The first documented use of the gambeson dates to the late 11th–early 12th century AD, although gambesons were likely already in use during the early Middle Ages. Wear it on its own or beneath a hauberk. Under chainmail, it protected the body from the direct impact of blows. Hauberks were sometimes so thick and tough that they could even stop arrows fired with low draw weight. This style is modeled after the gambeson depicted in the Morgan Bible from 1250. Gambesons remained popular into the 14th century, when a different style resembling a padded pourpoint took over.

Built for re-enactment battles, this gambeson works great under a suit of armor, a hauberk, or similar gear. Made from cotton with polyester padding, it measures 12 mm thick.