Tudor arming doublet, 15th century, black

Product description

This arming doublet is based on 15th- and 16th-century originals.

Arming doublets were worn under plate armor from the 15th century onwards. The arming doublet was a development of the gambeson and the 14th-century pourpoint. The inside of the doublet is padded, providing protection to the body against blows to the armor. In the late-Gothic style (1450–1500), arming doublets often featured voiders and a chainmail skirt (gousset). In late-15th-century Italy, this also became a civilian fashion: men who were not knights wore arming doublets, likely because the garment suggested status and knighthood.

This arming doublet is thinner than other examples, allowing for greater freedom of movement. This was done to enable optimal mobility when wearing armor. Extra lacing can easily be added to the doublet to attach armor pieces. This arming doublet is made from coarsely woven canvas and features padding made of sturdy wool felt.