Product description
Leather jackets of this type were worn from the early 16th to mid-17th century by people working outdoors, such as gamekeepers, seafarers, and soldiers. Leather jackets (jerkins) replaced earlier arming doublets and were worn as an underlayer beneath plate armour. Like later arming doublets, this garment was also popular for civilian wear or for use outside a military context. They gave the wearer a rugged, masculine appearance whilst providing good protection against the elements.
From the 17th century, the buff coat evolved from this garment, becoming exclusively military. Historically, this type of leather jacket was often worn over a doublet, and in some cases the doublet and jacket were crafted as matching sets.
The Orthello jerkin is constructed from soft suede. It closes at the front with four roller buckles, which may also be employed to adjust the fit individually to the wearer's size. To improve mobility, a split has been incorporated at the back. The Orthello is a windproof and robust outer garment that permits many combination options. It can be completed with hoods and collars, and sits well beneath a leather armour over a chainmail shirt. With this jerkin as a foundation, a great many costumes can be realised. Well-suited to a LARP gathering or medieval festival.
