14th-Century Canvas Quilted Gambeson Armour

"A warrior who relies solely on iron without a padded aketon beneath will learn the brutal truth of shock and bruising in his very first clash." Osric, Keeper of the Hearth & Forge

Cold steel deflects an edge, but only dense quilting spares your bones from the concussive violence of the strike. Patterned after fourteenth-century Type 6 arming garments, this double-layer aketon provides vital defence for both garrison drill and prolonged field campaigns.

The outer shell is cut from hard-wearing cotton canvas, tailored to endure relentless friction against chainmail links and iron breastplates. Inside, double-layered quilted channels secure an impact-dampening blend of recycled wool, cotton, and polyester wadding. These vertical stitch lines maintain an even distribution of material under pressure, eliminating unprotected gaps whilst ensuring breathability beneath the midday sun. Traditional fabric buttons close the front securely without the rigidity of iron buckles, while the high, padded collar defends your throat and neck from abrasive coifs or gorgets.

Equally suited for an archer seeking unencumbered standalone light armour or a man-at-arms layering under plate, it is offered in ecru and black across sizes Small to XXXL. When taking measurements at my workbench, measure yourself over whichever linen undertunic you plan to wear afield. Should your sizing sit between marks or require heavy undergarments, select the larger size to guarantee unrestrained movement with blade or polearm. Maintain your kit after hard campaign service by cold hand-washing or spot-cleaning, laying the garment flat to air-dry away from direct heat.