Justus Suede Tabard

A Scout’s Garb: The Justus Suede Tabard

Tabards were worn by all kinds of people throughout the medieval period, making this a very versatile garment for all kinds of purposes and characters, whether you’re going to a historical reenactment, a LARP event, or you just want a cool suede tabard.

However, while most people can wear it, this tabard was designed with battle or quick movement in mind. It is sturdy, having been handmade using black, brown, or green suede panels. Like traditional medieval tabards, this suede tabard has deep slits in the front and back which allow for fluid movement.

The tabard is fastened with leather straps that lace up the sides. This means that you can dress yourself, unlike clothing that laces up the back. The tabard is usually worn over clothing and armour, much like a surcoat. So, this means that it is best when combined with other pieces for a personalised look.

The Medieval Tabard: Who Wore It and Why

The tabard was most famously worn by knights during the High Middle Ages. It served to protect the metal armour underneath from the weather, be it the heat of the Middle Eastern sun during the crusades, or the Northern European rains at home.

The tabard also identified the knights in the heat of battle, so friend and foe alike would know who they were. This was especially useful because, often, people preferred to take knights captive in battle as opposed to killing them. Ransoming a living knight was much more profitable than a dead one.

But knights weren’t the only ones to wear tabards. Common foot soldiers would also wear tabards, to protect whatever armour they wore, or simply to protect themselves. The soft leather wouldn’t stop much, but it was better than nothing, especially when paired with more layers underneath.

Finally, common workmen and some of the clergy also wore tabards. These were usually intended to protect the clothing underneath from the rigors of whatever work they were up to.

Tech Specs

The technical specifications of the Justus Suede Tabard are as follows:

•         Materials: Cowhide suede leather
•         Colours: Black, brown, or green
•         Sizes: Small (34.4 inch chest), Medium (38.6 inch chest), Large (41.3 inch chest), X-Large (44.9 inch chest), XX-Large (48 inch chest)