Our Basic Padded HEMA jacket takes inspiration from medieval fighting garments and is made in sturdy cotton canvas, with a layer of cotton batting inside, for a combination of protection and breathability. For a lighter-weight version, designed for everyday use and drilling see our Basic Unpadded HEMA jacket. The most popular sizes in black are usually in-stock for faster delivery. Available in Black and Dark green.
Want a custom color? See our Premium Unpadded HEMA jacket and Premium Padded HEMA jacket. The premium version of the style is made to order in a wide range of tones, including custom color variations.
Using the unique, wide, curved armhole, it provides optimal mobility though the shoulders and arms critical for your training and fencing. Click on VIDEO tab above to see how easily you can move when wearing this jacket. Hidden front zipper closure in front with eyelets for optional ties provides a finished look & complete coverage. High neck for padding under neck protection. We’ve included slits for ease of movement at the wrists and hem, the ones at the wrists can folded back to provide padding under your gauntlets. Available in basic black and dark green.
We recommend dry cleaning this item in order to extend its life to a maximum. If you do choose to wash your jacket – only do so in cold water by itself(colors may bleed in the wash when new) and hang to dry. Do not machine dry as that is the most destructive part of modern washing. Please note: as this is made of 100% cotton it will fade over time with repeated washings.
Please note these are made as they are ordered so allow a minimum of 2-3 weeks for your order to ship.
Note: Measure your waist at the WIDEST point to determine your size. Wrap the tape snugly around your waist. You chest measurement is typically less import as this large, curved armhole give extra room in chest and upper back, which allows for freedom of movement in shoulders, arms and upper body. This style is meant to fit snugly in the torso and waist while still providing freedom of movement in shoulders and arms, so we recommend choosing the smallest size that matches your measurements. While we do not make made to measure garments, this style is pretty easily taken in at the waist by a moderately experienced sewist, if you would like truly tailored fit. Don’t hesitate to email, call or text us(708-502-1937) with any questions.
Size Chart
Size | Max. Chest Measurement | Max. Waist Measurement |
Small – slim fit | 36″ / 91 cm | 28″ / 71 cm |
Small – regular fit | 36″ / 91 cm | 30.5″ / 77 cm |
Medium – slim fit | 40″ / 102 cm | 32″ / 81 cm |
Medium – regular fit | 40″ / 102 cm | 34.5″ / 87 cm |
Large – slim fit | 46″ / 117 cm | 38″ / 96 cm |
Large – regular fit | 46″ / 117 cm | 40.5″ / 103 cm |
XLarge – slim fit | 52″ / 132 cm | 44″ / 112 cm |
XLarge – regular | 52″ / 132 cm | 46.5″ / 118 cm |
XXL – slim fit | 58″ / 157 cm | 50″ / 127 cm |
XXL – regular fit | 58″ / 157 cm | 52.5″ / 133 cm |
Joseph Royce (verified owner) –
“Very nice” -Borat
Jacques Critchley (verified owner) –
Excellent fit, I am in more prosperous shape than in the past, but the jacket fit was excellent. The grande assiette sleeves offer a full range of movement without binding in any way. The only improvement I would like to see is a 2 inch thin padded or percing resistant flap behind the zipper, to make it even safer.
Ken Harding (verified owner) –
Disclaimer: This jacket was sent to me for evaluation purposes, without charge.
First impressions: It is well constructed and well finished. There are no loose threads, and all seams are sewn straight. Very sturdy, made of strong materials.
I love how easily it goes on and comes off. This is the first HEMA jacket I can say that about. The zipper is the heavy duty sort that does not jam. One of the best points about it is the great flexibility with which you can move your arms. There is no bunching up under your chin when you raise your arms, and the jacket itself is totally transparent as to your movement when you’re fencing. The look of it is quite nice; it has more of an historical feel, unlike modern HEMA jackets. It has connection points for attaching armor, if that is what you’re into.
The cons are not that bad. There is no blade catcher on the neck, but that’s OK– the neck is still padded, and everyone wears a gorget nowadays anyway. There is a single thickness throughout – there is no extra padding in shoulders, forearms, or chest but again, that’s OK because you should be wearing heavy duty forearm protectors, and I would recommend a plastic chest protector, especially if you’re fencing with a two-handed sword.
I have some suggestions, and they are minor.
I would like to see a strap on the back to cinch the waist. I lost a considerable amount of weight between giving my measurements and receiving the jacket, and a strap on the back would be appreciated.
I would also like some mesh incorporated, as in some form of venting, as the jacket is warm. I can’t wait to wear this during the winter.
Also some anchor points on the elbows for the attachment of forearm guards and elbow protectors would be helpful.
Would I recommend it? Yes, particularly if you are interested in a HEMA sparring jacket that does not have a modern look to it.
Ryan Neale (verified owner) –
Disclaimer: This jacket was sent to me for evaluation purposes, without charge.
My jacket philosophy can be summed up with the idea that a jacket is to prevent broken bones, serious injury, or death. A HEMA jacket, at least one that I spar and compete in and choose for myself, is not there to prevent pain. This jacket is perfect at combining mobility with enough padding for safety’s sake and strikes an excellent balance between the conflicting needs of HEMA fightwear.
The jacket has ties which thankfully are optional. They can be a bit of a pain to ready and time consuming if you’re getting ready for sparring or re-gearing between bouts, but provide a fashionable look if one can spare the extra time. They are a lovely extra touch.
The jacket is durable and although the jacket is hot, I was able to endure a few rounds of sparring in summer outdoors in South Florida in it. I credit this to possibly the batting and fabric as the jacket lacks the venting seen in some competing jackets.
The jacket also provides excellent grips for wrestling and I engaged in several rounds of ringen and backhold play, both of which the jacket served well in. It also worked well with multiple armaments, from polearms, to sword and rodela, to two swords, allowing excellent mobility in the arms.
Also outstanding is the choice of regular or slim fit jacket options. For someone like me who is broad of chest but will swim in a jacket I have to size up for, this option is appreciated for a better and more flattering fit.
Overall an excellent jacket.