15th century arming doublet Aulber, black

Product description

The arming doublet is based on 15th-century originals. Arming doublets were worn beneath plate armour from the 15th century onwards. The laces on the doublet permit armour pieces to be attached directly to it.

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

Leather laces and aiglets may be attached to this doublet, allowing armour pieces to be fastened securely. It can be closed at the front with laces. The exterior of this gambeson is crafted from coarse canvas, whilst the interior is constructed from breathable cotton and wool felt.