13th-Century Padded Cotton Arming Cap

"Strapping bare iron directly to your skull is a fool's errand; an unpadded blow will ring your bell or worse." Osric, Keeper of the Hearth & Forge

Any seasoned fighter understands that head protection demands a proper buffer against concussive force and the grinding weight of a mail coif. Meticulously tailored by Lord of Battles, this 13th-century arming cap provides that vital foundation. The outer shell is cut from breathable, 100-percent cotton canvas that withstands the grit of the campaign trail while venting heat during fierce melees.

At its core lies a three-layer padding composed of recycled multi-fibre wadding?a resilient utilitarian blend of cotton, wool, and polyester. The deliberate quilted stitching keeps this internal wadding locked firmly in place, distributing blunt impact across the head rather than bunching beneath your kettle hat or bascinet. At just over a quarter of a kilogram, it delivers vital shock absorption without excessive bulk, allowing your steel to sit true without forcing you into an oversized helm.

A shifting liner will blind you mid-skirmish, which is why sturdy cotton ties anchor the cap snugly beneath your chin. Available in shades like black, brown, and ecru, it serves equally well beneath heavy plate or as standalone headgear during sweltering garrison patrols. To preserve the integrity of the multi-fibre wadding, wash it strictly by hand in cold water and dry flat. Treat your harness properly, and it will see you through the campaign intact.