GDFB Gambeson

[Sir Ulrich]

http://therionarms.com/reenact/therionarms_c1342.html
Notice they're selling a size medium gambeson, I'm debating on getting it actually. Or maybe I should save up for a linen gambeson instead. Not sure what these are made of, if they're cotton then I actually want a linen one instead. Also not sure of the quality either does anyone know how good these are?

[Sir Wolf]

i think they are a heavy canvas with wool insides. i have the Large white version.

they are very thick and for armour in themselves only. i wouldn't wear this under mail. i am in the process of closing the holes in the armpits cause i hate the un period holes. also, the padding in the inner elbow place will need to be removed. this will make the arm bend easier. I'm also on the fence about whether or not to take the straps/buckles off and point it closed with a long cord.

i wouldn't get black. i know it's your kit, black is in mine as well. keep the black for your surcoat if you wear one or your shield. but i would get the white/off white version.

[Sir Edward]

Yeah, Wolf isn't kidding when he says this gambeson is armor by itself. It's very thick and heavy, and won't take mail over i very well. Though I think it could work well with a set of jack chains.

[Sir Brian]

Yeah, Wolf isn't kidding when he says this gambeson is armor by itself. It's very thick and heavy, and won't take mail over i very well. Though I think it could work well with a set of jack chains.

Ditto for me as well! I recently purchased this GDFB gambeson to use for my “light” armor days, WMA, and possibly live steel combat - (jack chains are a very good idea btw!) The price at KOA was just too sweet to resist! 


You know what makes a really good, light weight semi-period gambeson is the medieval wrestling jacket from Revival clothing. http://www.revivalclothing.com/medievalwrestlingjacket.aspx

Not only is it a frugal alternative to their linen gambeson, but it is still thick and tough enough to protect you from armor bites and actually breathes quite well. One word of caution though is do not secure the ties with a square knot as it can be a real PITA untying! I use a simple slipknot instead. 

[Sir William]

Is it padded?  It didn't look like it...

[Sir Edward]

Is it padded?  It didn't look like it...

The wrestling jacket? No, not really. It's a very tough material that will resist rips, but it's not padded.

[Sir Wolf]

to be honest, padding is really over done. a few layers of linen gives enough of a bounce while wearing armour to the the trick.

[Sir Ulrich]

Figured they weren't that good quality wise, at least for under maille. I am gonna probably try to make my own linen gambeson at this rate cause the only one thats for sale in the USA is too much for me money wise at the moment. Plus if I make it it would probably fit me better.

[Thorsteinn]

@Sir Ulrich: I can help you with that. The gambeseon in my profile pic is one I made myself and I really like it a lot.

100% Flax Linen fabric with 100% cotton thread is the way to go.

[Sir Wolf]

ya making it would prob be better. i have the white version and i haven't worn it yet.. not sure if i ever will to be honest. sigh....

[Sir William]

Why not, Sir Wolf?