Nothing says “medieval” like a knight. A good knight costume is built in layers, just like the real thing: a padded coat, armour pieces on top, then a belt, bracers and a helm. Here's how to build one, from a simple squire to a full knight.
In short
- Start with a padded coat. It's the base of every knight and squire look.
- Add a breastplate, shoulder armour and bracers for the knight.
- Carry the helm for photos. It's warm to wear all day.
- Our armour is faux leather: light, flexible and easy to wear for a whole day.
What knights wore
Under their armour, knights wore a linen shirt and a thick padded garment called a gambeson, aketon or arming doublet. It cushioned blows and stopped the armour from rubbing. Over the armour, many wore a surcoat or tabard in their heraldic colours, so they could be recognised on the field. Read more in what is a gambeson?
Level 1: the squire
The Quilted Padded Coat is cut long in the style of a gambeson, in 80% cotton, from S to XXL. Belt it with the Knight Belt with Sword Frog and add a Heraldic Banner Bracer. Trousers into boots, and you're a squire.
Level 2: the knight
Add the Double-Layer Half Breastplate, two layers of vintage brown faux leather with buckled straps. Then the shoulders: the Double Shoulder Armour covers both, the Studded Single Pauldron covers one. A Three-Buckle Bracer on each arm is quick to put on and take off.
Level 3: the helm
The Faux Leather Great Helm is built from faux leather panels, 29 cm tall, in black or brown. Wear it for photos and the walk to the joust, then carry it under your arm.
The noble knight
For a court look rather than a battle look, wear the padded coat with the green Velvet One-Shoulder Cape and tall Fold-Over Cuff Renaissance Boots.
Shop the knight look
See the full Knight collection.
Stay cool and safe
- A padded coat and faux leather armour are warm. On hot days, wear a light shirt under the coat and take breaks in the shade.
- If you join a LARP fighting group, follow its kit and safety checks.
Questions people ask
What did knights wear under their armour?
A linen shirt and braies, hose on the legs, and a padded gambeson or arming doublet over the top.
Can I wear this armour to a LARP game?
Yes. It is light and easy to move in. LARP groups have their own rules about which kit can be used in fights, so check with your organisers first.
