Medieval Knight Clothing In Middle Ages And Modern Times

Medieval knight clothing certainly has a very distinct look. The armor, under clothing, and combination of metal and cloth intertwine together, giving it a royal, majestic look. Not only is it unique and vibrant, it is also easily recognizable and a lot of the younger generation would quite simply sum it up in a single word, “cool.”

Medieval knight clothing is still the in thing these days during special occasions such as the music festivals in France, tournaments in Englad, Renaissance Fairs and the Medieval Times Castles located in North America.

Each article of the medieval knight's clothing had a particular significance as to why it was used or worn. Of course, one of the primary reasons was so the wearer would be well-protected and yet reasonably comfortable at the same time.

It all begins with the underclothes. These were extremely important because they served as a barrier between the knight’s skin and his suit of armor.

In the absence of underclothes, the armor would simply press directly against the knight's skin irritating and possibly even cut into it.

One can also imagine how cold the steel would be in winter and hot in summer. Would you want that steel on your skin under such conditions?

The legs were protected by woolen stockings and linen underpants. While the chest and torso was covered with a linen undershirt.

The Aketon, also known as Doublet, Hacketon, Gambeson, or Arming Coat, was a padded defensive jacket usually crafted from wool or linen. The stuffing was taken from whatever was available and ranged from scraps of cloth to horse hair or even grass.

This medieval jacket was worn as armor on its own, or combined with a leather or metal armor.

Starting around the 12th century an outer garment called a Surcoat was placed over the knight's armor. The Surcoat was common outer wear for both men and women during the Middle Ages. The Surcoats worn by knights was long and flowing giving them a regal and authoritative look.

Generally, this item sported the coat of arms on it or another significant symbol of the knight. Much like their use in medieval shields, these symbols served to identify knights on the battle field.

Higher ranked knights were distinguished from others through their caps. The ranked knight wore caps made of velvet. The caps were pointed and at the top where a streamer was often attached.

The Surcoats were fixed or secured at the waist with the belts that were considered part of the garment.

As you can see, a medieval knight's clothing served multiple purposes during the Middle Ages. Designed for protection, comfort as well as to impress, it succeeded on all accounts quite well.