Medieval cloak & mantle men
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 7 - 9 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
Medieval Capes & Coats for Men – Attire for Every Occasion
A medieval cloak for men is far more than just a practical item of clothing – in the Middle Ages, it was a status symbol, protection against the weather and part of one’s everyday identity all at once. Whether a heavy woollen coat for Viking re-enactments, a flowing cape for the re-enactment market or a Nordic-style tabard: this category comprises over 170 items and thus offers a selection ranging from beginner’s gear to detailed historical re-enactment – in brown, black, dark green, grey and other shades, made of woollen or cotton, with or without a hood.
Cloak, coat, cape or tabbed tunic – what is the difference?
Anyone exploring medieval clothing for the first time will quickly come across several terms that are often used interchangeably in everyday language but have historical distinctions:
- Cloak: A sleeveless garment worn over the shoulders, fastened at the shoulder or chest with a brooch. It lies loosely over the upper body and falls backwards and to the sides. The cloak is the most classic type and is documented across all eras.
- Coat: Longer and more structured in cut than the simple cloak, often with a sturdier shape around the shoulders. Coats frequently reach down to the ankles and were worn by knights and nobles alike.
- Cape: Shorter, often cut in a semi-circular shape, frequently without a hood. The cape covers the shoulders and upper body, but usually ends at hip or thigh height. It is the lightest and most agile variant.
- Folded skirt: A Viking-era garment with two overlapping front panels that create the characteristic ‘folded’ appearance. Archaeological finds from Birka (Sweden) confirm this cut for the 9th and 10th centuries. The range includes models such as the Bjorn, the Loki and the Balder – these flap skirts differ in colour, material and length.
The practical decision on which to buy depends primarily on the occasion: for a Viking portrayal in the Early Middle Ages, the flap skirt is the historically more accurate choice. For High Middle Ages re-enactment or LARP markets, a classic cloak or coat is often more versatile.
A comparison of materials: wool, cotton and what has stood the test of time
The material plays a decisive role in determining how warm, authentic and easy to care for a medieval cloak is in everyday use. With a wool content of around 74%, one material clearly dominates the range – and for good reason:
| Material | Historical suitability | Uses & properties |
|---|---|---|
| Wool (pure or high-content) | Historically authentic | Naturally water-repellent thanks to lanolin, warm, typically 400–600 g/m² – ideal for re-enactment, cold markets and military camps. Hand wash recommended. |
| Cotton (100%) | Suitable for LARP | Lighter, more affordable, visually similar to historical fabrics. Good for summer markets and LARP use. Machine washable at 30 °C. |
| Polyester blend | LARP / Costume | Available in our range, not historically accurate, but affordable and robust. Easy to care for, suitable for beginners and carnival use. |
In the Middle Ages, wool was the standard material for outerwear – not by chance, but because of its properties: even when wool gets wet, it still insulates. The lanolin (wool grease) it contains also provides natural water repellency, which is noticeable in dense fabrics. Linen and silk are more commonly used as lining fabrics for capes and historically played a minor role in outer garments.
Which cloak suits which historical period?
Early Middle Ages & Vikings
Here, the tabbed tunic is the first choice: styles such as Bjorn, Loki and Balder made from wool or cotton, often in brown, dark grey or dark green. Archaeologically attested by finds from Birka and Hedeby. Viking tunics or a medieval shirt are recommended as an underlayer. The tabbed tunic is generally available in sizes S to XXXL.
High Middle Ages & Knights
Longer coats with a more elegant cut, fastened at the shoulder or chest with a ring brooch or cloak clasp. Often trimmed with braid. Suitable for layering over a gambeson or as an overcoat over a doublet. One-size-fits-all styles available for a flexible fit.
LARP: Ranger, Thief & Mage
Hooded capes in black, dark green or brown for ranger and thief portrayals. Embellished capes with embroidery or braided trim for mages and nobles. One-size-fits-all cuts offer good freedom of movement. A doublet or a simple LARP shirt are suitable as layers underneath.
Care and durability: To ensure the cloak lasts through many events
Wool capes should always be hand-washed in lukewarm water using a mild wool detergent. Do not spin-dry – this causes the fibres to felt. Then lay flat to dry on a towel; never hang up (this stretches the fabric). Treating the fabric with a suitable wool wax or lanolin spray can restore its natural weather resistance after repeated washing.
Cotton capes are machine washable at 30°C – a gentle cycle is recommended. Do not tumble dry densely woven fabrics, as there is a risk of shrinkage. After washing, allow to dry in the fresh air, preferably laid flat or on a wide hanger.
After a market or LARP event, allow the cloak to air out – never store it damp in the boot of a car or in a closed bag, as this encourages mould growth in natural fibres. Check seams, brooch fastenings and hood attachments regularly for wear and tear. A loose button or a torn seam can be quickly secured with a bit of sewing thread – better before the next market than in the middle of it.
The general recommendations are intended as a guide – the care label on the specific cloak is the authoritative guide. Especially with wool-blend fabrics, the manufacturer’s instructions may differ from the general recommendations. If in doubt, wash on a cold, gentle cycle.
Authentic vs. LARP-suitable: What are the differences?
- Exclusively natural fibres: wool, linen, cotton
- Historically documented cuts (e.g. pleated skirt based on the Birka find)
- Correct fastenings: ring brooches, toggle buttons – no zips
- No synthetic content in strict authenticity checks
- Wool content and weight as indicators of quality
- Trim and historically accurate colouring
- Freedom of movement more important than historical accuracy
- Colour scheme more flexible – even more intense shades possible
- Polyester blends accepted, as they are easier to care for
- Sturdy seams are crucial for practical use
- One-size-fits-all cuts and flexible strap designs preferred
- Hoods are often more important as a functional feature than for aesthetics
Anyone facing authenticity checks – for example at closed re-enactment events such as military encampments – should pay attention to the wool content, historically accurate cut and appropriate fastenings. For open medieval markets and LARP events, both styles are welcome, and the decision is primarily based on personal comfort and budget.
Fastenings, details and accessories: brooches, trimmings and hoods
The fastening of a cloak is not merely a functional element – in the Middle Ages, it was a visible sign of status. Historically accurate fastening types available in our range:
- Ring brooch: The most common type, worn on the shoulder or chest. Already documented in early medieval grave finds. You can find matching medieval brooches and ring brooches as separate accessories.
- Toggle fastening: Sturdy, often made of leather or horn. Particularly common in Nordic depictions.
- Button hooks: Simple metal hooks that are barely noticeable when fastened – typical of simpler garments.
The hood is another important feature: some capes have a fixed hood, whilst others are supplied without one and can be combined with a separate hood. This allows for greater flexibility when putting together the garment.
Trim significantly enhances the visual appeal of a cloak and was historically a sign of prosperity: woven trims on edges and collars signalled craftsmanship and social status. When it comes to fit, shoulder width is particularly crucial – more so for coats and lapel skirts (sizes S to XXXL) than for one-size cloaks.
Price range and quality levels: From €29 to €193
One-size cotton capes with simple cuts. Well suited for a first visit to the market, carnival or Fasching. Easy to care for, available in a range of colours. No high wool content, but affordable for beginners.
Wool blends and more structured cuts from brands such as Battle Merchant and Leonardo Carbone. The all-round choice for regular market visits and LARP events. Flap skirts such as Bjorn and Loki fall into this category – available in sizes S to XXXL.
Elaborate wool cloaks with a high weight per square metre, hooded styles with braided trim, and intricately detailed pleated skirts from Burgschneider. For serious re-enactors and frequent use. Durable, high-quality feel – noticeable in direct comparison.
With over 170 styles ranging from wool to cotton, from simple beginner’s capes to intricately detailed peplum coats, you’ll find the perfect cloak for your role here – whether you’re a Viking, early medieval figure, high medieval knight or LARP ranger. Browse the category and let the cut, material and colour guide you.
Frequently asked questions
A cloak is a shoulder-based, sleeveless garment fastened with a brooch and worn over other clothing. A doublet, on the other hand, is a Viking-era top with two overlapping front panels – archaeologically attested by finds from Birka. The doublet is more structured and is particularly suitable for early medieval and Viking re-enactments, whilst the classic cloak can be used across different periods.
Wool is the historically accurate and most practical material: it keeps you warm, insulates even when wet, and is naturally water-repellent thanks to the lanolin it contains. Cotton is a good alternative for summer or for LARP use – cheaper, lighter and easier to care for. For pure re-enactment performances with authenticity checks, the wool content should be as high as possible.
Simple cape styles and many classic capes are available in one size and fit most men well thanks to their shoulder-based construction. Flap-front capes such as Bjorn, Loki and Balder, as well as longer coats, are available in sizes S to XXXL – here, shoulder width is the key factor for a good fit.
Wool capes should be hand-washed in lukewarm water using a mild wool detergent – do not spin-dry, as this will cause the fibres to felt. Then lay flat to dry on a towel; never hang up. After frequent washing, treating with a lanolin spray can restore the natural weather protection. The care label on the respective product is the authoritative guide.
For a historically accurate Viking re-enactment, a wrap-around cloak made of wool or heavy cotton fabric is recommended – models such as Loki or Bjorn are based on early medieval cut styles. It is important to have the correct fastening (ring brooch or toggle, no zip) and the highest possible natural fibre content. Viking tunics or a simple medieval shirt are suitable to wear underneath.