Understanding the Difference Between Gambeson and Arming Doublet in Medieval Armor

Medieval warfare was a complex and multifaceted endeavor that required soldiers to be not only skilled in combat but also well-equipped with protective clothing. Two essential pieces of such protective gear are the gambeson and the arming doublet. Both serve to protect warriors, but they do so in different ways and through distinct designs. This article will explore the differences between these two protective garments.

What is a Gambeson?

Definition: A Gambeson, also known as a 'felan,' is a padded defensive jacket. It is often made from layers of linen or wool stuffed with materials such as batting, small scraps of felt, or horsehair.

Purpose: As the primary component of a medieval soldier's protective clothing, the gambeson serves as a standalone armor piece. It provides a layer of cushioning and can absorb the impact of weapons, making it an invaluable addition to a warrior's arsenal.

Design: The gambeson is typically loose-fitting and long-sleeved, allowing for flexibility and comfort. Its design is more about providing adequate protection in a wide range of combat situations rather than offering a snug fit.

Historical Use: The gambeson was widely used from the early medieval period through the late Middle Ages. It was particularly critical for foot soldiers as it offered essential protection against the harsh and varied conditions of battle.

What is an Arming Doublet?

Definition: An Arming Doublet is a more fitted and tailored garment. It is often made of a heavier fabric and padded similarly to a gambeson but is designed to be less bulky.

Purpose: The arming doublet serves a distinct purpose, primarily to be worn under plate armor. It helps secure the armor in place and provides a supportive base layer. The doublet is also designed with features such as hooks, laces, and eyelets to attach various pieces of armor.

Design: The arming doublet is more tailored, offering a snug fit that allows for better mobility and comfort when wearing armor. It may include detachable or adjustable sleeves and additional features to ensure secure attachment to the armor.

Historical Use: The arming doublet became essential in the late Middle Ages and into the Renaissance, particularly with the advent of plate armor. It improved the fit and effectiveness of the armor, providing a more comfortable and efficient solution for warriors.

Comparing the Gambeson and Arming Doublet

While both gambeson and arming doublet offer protection and are padded, their primary differences lie in their design and intended use. The gambeson is a general protective layer suitable for various combat situations, whereas the arming doublet is designed to support and enhance the fit of plate armor.

Additional Context

It is also worth noting that other protective garments existed in medieval armor, such as the aketon. An aketon was a thinner padded garment, about five layers thick, often worn under mail to provide padding against blunt trauma. It was typically worn under a gambeson or even a brigandine but never under plate harness. This type of padding was essential to prevent the mail rings from causing injuries.

On the other hand, the arming doublet is a civilian garment that was modified for military use. It was designed to be worn under plate harness and featured arming points for attaching armor securely. Its thickness was adjusted to provide the necessary support without adding too much bulk.

Conclusion

Both the gambeson and the arming doublet played crucial roles in medieval military attire, each serving a unique purpose in protecting and enhancing the wearer's combat readiness. Understanding these differences can provide insight into the diverse and sophisticated armor of the medieval period.

Keywords: gambeson, arming doublet, medieval armor