The Gambeson: A Practical and Affordable Form of Medieval Armor

Gambeson is a type of armor that was worn by medieval knights and soldiers. It was a padded garment made of layers of fabric, usually wool or linen, that provided protection against sword blows and other weapons. The gambeson was worn under the armor to absorb the impact of blows and to prevent injury to the wearer's skin. It was also sometimes worn as a standalone piece of armor by men-at-arms and other soldiers who could not afford more expensive types of armor.

The term "gambeson" comes from the Old French word "gambison," which means "a garment of defense." The gambeson was popular in Europe during the Middle Ages, particularly during the 14th and 15th centuries, when it was worn by knights and soldiers on the battlefield. It was also worn by civilians as a form of protection during times of conflict or unrest.

The gambeson was made up of several layers of fabric, which were sewn together to create a padded garment. The layers were usually quilted or tied together to prevent them from shifting around and to provide additional stability. The gambeson could be worn over a tunic or other type of clothing, and it was often belted at the waist to keep it in place.

While the gambeson provided some protection against weapons, it was not as effective as more expensive types of armor, such as plate armor. However, it was a practical and affordable option for many soldiers and civilians who needed some level of protection but could not afford more expensive armor.