My dude, I am currently building a shop inside a new renfaire, having never attended one myself, and your videos have been such a lifesaver for me when trying to create a masculine outfit. Plenty of "making a dress for renfaire" videos. Not enough for the other side of the spectrum. Thank you!
I am a woman but I love this channel because fantasy means women wearing adventurer's outfits. I must say, it would be incredible if shops for men would do small sizes because it's sad to see so many wonderful outfits that are really practical but way TOO LARGE for me. 😅 It's even impossible to find medieval style pants for women... You can only find leggings 😂
Spiral lacing would really help with your "lacing takes forever" problem on the outer tunic, it goes in super fast (especially if you use a dull needle or bodkin to run the lacing through the eyelets). Bonus points for it being historically accurate to Europe in the Middle Ages.
So one of the historical sources we do have for a medieval lacing system is in How a man shall be armed at his ease, in that I believe we see a spiral lacing system rather than a crossed back and fourth system like with shoes, presumably because it was faster and didn't need to be held under as much tension. As far as anachronistic solutions go you might be able to adapt one of the quick lacing systems for shoes to your ranger tunic.
I see some people have already commented this, but spiral lacing is the more historically accurate way of lacing a garment and is a bit quicker to do up as well, especially when using a bodkin or a blunt needle to essentially sew your garment shut through the eyelets. While cross lacing was occasionally used, it was more decorative rather than practical.
The vambraces, unfortunately, would probably need to be remade and custom fitted to you. As for the ranger tunic/vest, I know it wont be historically correct or anything, but a zipper under the arm for quick equip/unequip once it's laced up, with an extra length of leather to cover it. Alternatively, I had designed a chain 'robe' or long coat after seeing one of Geralt's outfits in Witcher 3, and the idea I came up with for it is to overlay one side, and use hook clasps through a loop secured to the chain, or through some kind of pin kind of like the pins of a hood latch for cars. Something like that instead of the zipper on your side under the arm could work. The horizontal sword problem could be fixed with something called a sword frog; specifically one with a swivel point. You come to the issue of whether or not the sword sits at the correct height then, however; thought it wasn't uncommon for swordsmen to have a second belt just for the sword, so depending how you go about it, it may not even look out of place. "I made gloves out of scraps of hide/leather I just had laying around. Simply looked at how they could fit, and sewed them together." - probably the most fantasy ranger thing I've ever heard. lol 👍
"Lacing" to me seems like a good way to FIT an item of clothing that would otherwise not be fitted, you adjust the lacing to where it fits you and then leave it, using some _other_ fastener for actually taking the piece on and off. I agree that having it as the _primary_ fastener is impractical.
For your boots, you might want to consider something like talking to the people at a Son of Sandlar booth at a RenFaire...they're some of the best at medieval boots for purchase and if they aren't busy, they love to talk shop with people who do their own. Even great to talk about other leather things and issues with it.
Very interesting! If you want more grip in the shoe, add felted inlays, it's a difference like day and night. Mayby try to put the soles in olive oil over a day, that should make them very elastic again, except if they where treated with chemicals that could repell the oil, of course. I got no problem with the grip of my shoes and I also put the skin side of the vegetable tanned leather crupon to the outside. How was the leather for your soles tanned? Mayby that causes the issues.
Take a ring belt and tie a clove hitch around the scabbard. It will hang vertical and out of your way. When ready to draw or just rest your hand on it, it will tilt forward to allow you to draw easier. The tightness of the ring belt changes the angle you can tilt it too. Worked for the Norse.
For your leather jerkin. Spiral lacing was most common during the high and late Medieval periods. Spiral would make it a lot easier to get on and off over your head. The only problem with your extant garment is the holes ideally be offset, not parallel to each other. One single lace can be tightened or loosened without having to unthread it. The excess lace can be tucked away down the top.
For the tunic, cut the sides and add fabric or other light material to make it large enough to put over head when laced. Use straps with double ring or buckles to tighten sides once on.
If your favorite red tunic has long enough sleeves, cuff them back over the vambraces. That should help keep the vambraces from slipping down over your wrists. Thank you for the great content!...
as a lad with big forearms (blacksmithing will do that to you), I feel you on the vambraces. I have NEVER found a set that was comfortable outside of plate armour custom-fitted to me, so for my skirmisher kit at Bicolline I'm just going to have to risk a hit to the forearm rather than have to constantly fidget with uncomfortable armour that compromises my wrist movement
Check out options for spiral lacing- this is a common way women's medieval kirtles are done up, and it's much faster than the classic crossed lacing we're used to. You may also find t faster to lace them with linen or wool cord instead of leather, it'll have less friction as you lace
Might I suggest Sodhopper's Moccasins, they look great and best of all they are without a doubt THE most comfortable shoes I have ever purchased. I have 2 sets, wore them both at the Reckoning larp and they served me well. My wife loves her pair as well. The great thing about your leather vest is that it's leather. Nothing stopping you from adding thicker leather plates to it. Even the situation with the laces remove the grommets add a thicker piece of leather folded over it and go with your gambeson style laces instead. The same deal with your vambraces just add a leather top piece extension so you can connect it higher up. Great video, love your work. :)
I would probably make a carrying harness/baldrick for the sword, sling it on my back for long marches, pop it on the hip for when I expect combat. Could even make some kind of quick release tab for emergencies, grab and yank, the harness and scabbard drops off the blade at the back leaving the blade ready to use.
also I have a strong suspicion that you can use three strings, one permanently wrapped on each side and one in the middle to"sew" the two together, which would be much quicker than the current method
Leaving the top buckle of the gambeson undone is a great stylistic choice, gives you John Wayne/Tom Selleck vibes that really work well with your more timeless build and body type. I like the actors that played Bormir and Aragorn in the films. But you look like a bit more like someone from a tapestry or old manuscript illumination. Especially since you and your clothes tend to be cleaner and neater than the grungy aesthetic of the jackson films.
Another amazing video, thank you! I don't have sewing skills or full knowledge of clothes of the era, but I'm a bit of a Tinkerbell (not the jealous, homicidal one from Peter Pan lore, but the engineer-minded one from her Disney movies). My first thoughts as I watched your video were: 1. why not add buttonholes or a loop to the braces and attach them to your tunic as you do the forearm sleeve extensions? It would keep them from sliding down. 2. can you add a lining to the gambeson to create the weight and protection you desire? 3. can you cut one or both side seams of the ranger tunic and add buckles or buttons to secure it? There are many lace-up items of women's clothing that have a side zipper or other closure so you don't have to lace it up every time. 4. Sounds like you have the boots sorted out for next time, but again, I'm wondering if a buttonhole or loop could be added to attach them to your legwear to keep them up so you don't have to rely on the tightness of the lacing. Also, did they use garters back then? Garters could help with the braces and the boots. I know you get many comments on your videos, but I (and maybe your other followers?) would love to know why these are not acceptable fixes. Thanks again, Happy Adventuring!!
A reenactment group I work with adds slats to their shoes for grip. Horizontal strips of thick leather across the width of the foot repeated up and down the length. It adds substantially to grip in the forward-backward direction, though less so sideways, which takes a little getting used to. No real evidence for this historically, but they consider it a matter of safety, due to issues you described. They can be tacked in place if you have a last, but i would recommend keeping the insole if so. Else you could stitch them in at either side, like your toe-seam. Either way, some flexible "leather glue" will help prevent peeling.
The struggles between achieving a certain look and comfort are definitely something that is relatable. I'm not sure what they are called but I have seen a wooden cylinder style button that tapers at both ends. And it either fastens to a button hole or a leather loop. These might work better for your vest.
10:33 I think you can modify that to work like buttons by using a short loop of string on one side and a longer loop with a knot or a button or horn shaped button on the other. This way you still keep the stringy look but it's not as much of a PITA to dress-undress. Also something like this can be done with flat/round buttons on the inside so it's hidden
@@LivingAnachronismJust saw your vid. I wear a pair of Roman caligae over my leather boots. Great for grip in the outdoors and can be removed when entering a building with wooden or stone floor. Also in winter you can add a layer of (fake) rabbit furs as a layer between the caligae and boot. I’m now starting to experiment with wearing mail socks as the inbetween layer for combat reinactment.
A bit of advice for you add a thicker piece of leather over the upper forearm and point it through the added leather by adding a button under the short sleeve of you short gambison arm pieces
I know you place your arrows on the right side of the bow and use the European three finger draw. I have been practicing using the Asian thumb release with a thumb ring (mine is leather) from the right side of my horse bow. I find it a very comfortable method of releasing arrows once you get the hang of locking the arrow to a bow without a shelf. It also seems to be easier for me to place my arrows on target. Adding a thumb pad to your glove should be a simple process and might even add a bit of additional lore to your Ranger's storyline. Just a thought.
I'm sorry to say this but lacing garments was VERY common especially for arming clothes. Though buttons and points are historically accurate but particularly for arming doublets and 15th century doublets they are laced up. Also yep longswords/bastard swords are inconvenient to wear it's why arming swords of various sizes never really disappeared they are useful and convenient
There’s a wonderful 13th(maybe?) century effigy or statue of some sort (I’ll find the reference if you’re interested) that shows what some people have interpreted as knotted ropes sewn to the bottom of the shoes at the heel and the ball of the foot that could be helpful to improve traction
Type 14 arming swords are really nice. I have the older Windlass model that had been replaced with their upgraded model based on the one in the Royal Armories. It is a wonderful sword and handles beautifully. Shockingly they are not much lighter than some longswords, though. With the current model weighing in at 2lbs 6 oz. As for the longsword, check out some different historical belting styles. I believe Todd's channel has a video on different belting systems.
Your videos are fantastic. I plan to go to another faire this year, maybe two. I've watched several of your videos for tips and help as a new comer to the experience, some twice. I appreciate everything you do for this community. Thanks a ton!
You should consider using a one-handed axe as your main weapon. As a ranger, it would be a useful tool in general and also double as a nice, compact weapon that doesn't add unnecessary burden while traveling.
For the boots: Could you apply your lesson from the sole to the sides of the boot? Make just the sides where the seams are 3 layer to stiffen the sides, letting you have good front to back motion while having the stiff sides to hold it up. Then when tied on the top the stiff sides would help keep the boots in place rather than falling down kinda like modern cowboy boots
I wonder if adventurers would develop the same "cotton kills" cos it holds water view that hikers do today? Perhaps they'd split into "scratchy" wool & "squeaky" leather camps, with cotton lovers traveling from the deserts and getting the tut-tut treatment :)
And good luck on your adventure, mate. Spare a thought for all the fellows who got isekai'd by being hit by a truck rather than have a magic portal conveniently show up lol
If you're looking for genuine heavy leather to use for a breastplate check and see if there's a local saddler that does repairs. They might have a source for the really good stuff (shoulder leather from a full grown bull or ox vs the usual belly leather sold in craft shops or veal hide used for bong shop punk jackets).
I'm a recent sub to your channel. Just wanted to say keep up the great content! Its given me some ideas and inspiration for leveling up my own ren faire garb!
On the boots one wonders if a hobnail sole for treks might be worth looking into in addition. Like having a pair of marching boots and a separate pair of ranging moccasin for utility.
Email Ruth Goodman of the BBC "Farm" series, she does the sewing of clothes for the series where they showcase costumes made by hand when they are made like period pieces. She had one show where she made the battle tunic and it was amazingly tough but almost immovable. I would bet she'd get back to you! Ask her about the sleeves and shoes. Love your content, wish their was a creator like you for women's gear!
re boots, loads of reenactors had slippy boot syndrome, hobnails are very easy to add, but then you cant wear indoors. a lot of people sewed/glue strips to give traction ridges i remember, and so glued rubber soles just for safety....also theres slip on hobnail over boots, bit like crampons/roman sandals on top of boots
Look at bazubands to replace the bracers the style that has an attached elbow cop instead of an integrated one would be optimal for what you're looking for
I got a windlass type 14 a while back. I'd definitely recommend that profile of sword for convenience of wear. You could almost forget you had it on. I'd certainly consider getting a better quality one, either from Todd Cutler or valiant armoury.
It's hard to beat Tod, but I really love the variety of choices in dye that valiant armoury has. I mean a type XIV with Antique blue scabbard and grip would look👌. Also I like the leaf bladed swords valiant makes as well, and the fact that they used to make the 'heron' which was inspired by the heron marked blades in the wheel of time books is just plain awesome.
If you’re intent on changing your sword out, you couldn’t have chosen a better source. Tod Cutler has done at least a couple of videos on suspension systems ranging from the rough-and-ready to the ornate fit for nobles. He goes into sufficient detail that you can craft your own given materials and tools if you decide to try to improve the system you’re currently using that’s not working for you. If you go for the Spanish frog system, free hint: make cardboard models to test fit first. (No affiliation, just a fan)
Ain't it "Tod", with on D? Also about the boots, maybe make a new sole and stud it through to the bottom so you get the side of the leather you want plus some studs for more traction?
replace your laces with dongle and loop a monkey fist dongle or a marlin knot dongle will allow you to use the same lace you already have anglers knot or a simple bight and ovehand knot for the loop boots should secure just below the knee and above the calf if you place it right no binding or pain but the boot will stay in place easily ... think sqian dubn and flashes for the scotish look
If you want to keep the bracers and be more comfortable, while not necessarily historically accurate, a forearm gambeson like what Boromir and Aragorn use under the leather Gondor Bracers works really well. Raises the bracer off your arm a bit and stops it slipping down, and makes it easier to have tight and remain comfortable, rather than putting it straight onto tunic/shirt sleeve. I found hardened leather bracers really uncomfortable if I had to move my wrist in a way where it would end up rubbing against the edge of the bracer. Arm gambeson completely solved it - and would be keeping with the LotR inspired aspects. A God of War style arm wrap can serve the same purpose.
To one with my sort of mind, that's a hilariously suggestive way to carry a bollock dagger. Otherwise, everything looks great and I'll have to keep some of this in mind.
Ref your boots, I have a failing down problem with my gaiters and it because they need to sit above my calves. Currently they sit on the middle of my calves which is basically the thick part of the leg.
Hey Kramer, great video. I always get excited when I see a video about anything ranger-esque. As for the sword, have you considered a Falchion sword as a ranger weapon? Shadiversity made a video about weapons for a fantasy ranger.
I have, and I do think a falchion is a very practical option. But as a human who is not entirely rational, I can't help but prefer an arming sword or long sword aesthetically :)
Awesome video! I have to say, I have a Ranger's Cloak from Fell & Fair myself, but unfortunately, it wasn't to my liking. The main problem being it's way, way too short for me. It barely reaches my knees, giving more of a Hobbit feel rather than a ranger. However, the linen itself is amazing, and I plan on making a tunic out of it instead, so as not to just waste it or sell it.
#1: you forgot your sword when you took off. #2: can't argue with the arming sword but you can modify the hanger for your current blade, you have the skill. #3: heavily research moccasins from North America, most didn't last long but darn if you don't get amazing ground feed back! #4: you might not ever be happy with the boots so stick with what you have, they have lasted a year!
With the boot would it make sense to put an extra optional sole in the boots? So it can be barefoot without but more protective with it in? Or ig you could make a thicker pair of sort of.. slippers that you put on over the other boot to add a layer.. they might make more sense since theyd also protect the thin sole of the boot.. I have no idea how accurate either of these are tho
You've discovered one of three reasons why the otherwise awesome moccasin sucks. One is planting your heel on a rock just under the size of a marble. Parents are familiar with this through those one-post Legos that venture out at night across the floor. Second, when soaked they seem to have been made from the skin from the back of granny's arm or her neck. They often become floppy, oversized clown moccasins when soaked. Finally, your discovery. They can be slick on grass. "Can" as opposed to "are", as there are some things to consider. It has been said that wearing moccasins is a fancy way of going barefoot, but that is, essentially, their raison d'etre and the whole point. Just as you said you like to feel and curve your toes, so are moccasins designed for. With the exception of certain styles incorporating harder soles for cactus, etc., moccasins are soft soled. We defeat this purpose when trying to make shoes of them, and sacrifice their science. We, naturally, think that a supplementary sole should be a good, thick chunk of leather. Today, this is found in vegetable tans primarily. We affix this to the only part of us that touches the ground and head off. When reaching a slight hill covered in grass or other treacherously deviant similar obstacle, we find things difficult. We have forgone the rigidity, support and reinforcement of a cobbled footwear and the grabbiness of a moccasin for a hybrid combination that falls short in this assignment. Moccasins were made of braintan, or other similar process that breaks down the glues in the hide and works the fibers to retain a suppleness when dry. The process is completed ONLY when the tanned hide is thoroughly smoked in order to regain that suppleness in the event of a future wetting. If not smoked, your hard work breaking it down will turn into that rigid fiberglass-of-the-frontier rawhide when dry again. Due to the process of braintanning, I feel the breaking down step prepares the leather for a soaked feet day FAR better than moccasins made of modern chrome tanned deerskin. Braintan has the shiny part scraped off, which gets a bit like handkerchief filler when wet. Braintan will allow your toes to grip better. Forego the added thick smooth soles if wet grass is in your future of moccasinning. Well, that didn't help at all, but at least you know a bit more than anybody's ever wanted to know about moccasins. I seldom wear them any more after many years of daily wear. Now, I wear 18th C buckled, straightlast shoes or tall two-piece boots. For wet, cactus, etc. I find these footwear superior to moccasins. They're pretty good with the occasional wild Lego, too. For snow, any unlined footwear of leather is unsuitable. I prefer wooden shoes for the insulation and dryness properties. Not much of a slipping problem, either. Oh, and always "wear the hide as the animal did". Try not to wear leather fleshside/inside out.
@@builtbybittle Not a problem! I'm a big guy with a 48" chest and the XL fits like a T shirt. I would prefer if it was a little more loose, but it does a good job. Looks good too! It does shrink a little in the wash. I personally don't have enough room for layers; my persona is kind of a big, tough guy, especially for a ranger, so I don't mind showing off the guns. I love linen. I live in a hot environment and linen is what I like. It breathes and dries fast. Fell and fair is a good brand. I also have a long sleeve tunic, a belt, a waxed canvas satchel and some bracers. The bracers are also pretty comfy. A little thinner than what I'm used to, but they are bison and pretty supple for 8-10 oz leather.
Anyone have any tips for the style of cloak mentioned here for crafty people? The circle cloak I made has this choking issue and a sewing pattern for a better fit would be appreciated but I’m not sure what to look for.
Not sure how to craft the pattern, someone in my discord could probably help, but the way this one is designed, instead of a flat neck line, it's pulle up higher like a cone in the back. So the line in the center of your neck is the highest point and it gently curves out towards the front of your shoulder. If you grab a blanket and wrap it around your shoulders and pull it up slightly and hold it in the front, you will have a weird bit of access in the back. That is essentially the shape. Instead of removing that excess, that's what the hood attaches to, and the front closes where you had your hand. That's sort of a tough description to follow, but I hope it helps
To my knowledge, yes, commonly the sword belt was integrated and part of the scabbard. I think Todd's Workshop has a few videos on the subject, showing different styles
@LivingAnachronism thanks Kramer. I did think it was as I grew up watching the Prince Valiant series, and I think he (I'll have to rewatch and confirm this it's on Plex) had a separate swordbelt but always wore his dagger.
@@DollopussD This is exactly what I do, one of the reasons I always recommend adventurer's wear two belts. One for daily wear, has a pouch with essentials, knife, dagger, etc. And one that is the adventuring kit belt, the one that can come off if necessary, Sometimes my kit belt is my sword belt, sometimes, it's separate and I actually end up wearing three!
Todd from Todd cutlery could probably make you a dirt just like you want customized for a very reasonable y'all can collab too and you will both boost each others use probably just an idea
I would have to imagine a person in medieval times would be unsatisfied with their gear and constantly wishing they could improve it, so your dissatisfaction is historically accurate.😊
Lace systems very inaccurate? Dude evey woman’s bodice from 1500 to 1800 was laced, also all the corsets. Mens combat clothing was also laced for a big chunk of the middle ages. I think a lot of us have this idea that practical=easy to take off. Which isn't true especially in an era when you basically didn't add or remove any peices of clothing between wake up and go to bed.
If you want to get technical, his are inaccurate for a couple reasons. Metal grommets and cross lacing was not really a thing. It was usually sewn buttonholes and spiral lacing.
My dude, I am currently building a shop inside a new renfaire, having never attended one myself, and your videos have been such a lifesaver for me when trying to create a masculine outfit. Plenty of "making a dress for renfaire" videos. Not enough for the other side of the spectrum. Thank you!
Wishing you a well with the new Renfaire. They're a lot of work but a whole adventure of thier own
I am a woman but I love this channel because fantasy means women wearing adventurer's outfits. I must say, it would be incredible if shops for men would do small sizes because it's sad to see so many wonderful outfits that are really practical but way TOO LARGE for me. 😅 It's even impossible to find medieval style pants for women... You can only find leggings 😂
What kind of shop are you opening?
Spiral lacing would really help with your "lacing takes forever" problem on the outer tunic, it goes in super fast (especially if you use a dull needle or bodkin to run the lacing through the eyelets). Bonus points for it being historically accurate to Europe in the Middle Ages.
Adding a pointy brass aglet would be like having the needle permanently attached
Literally came here yo say exactly this. Spiral lace is god tier and accurate. Thank you friend!
It's a good reason to put long aglets on all laces. Built-in bodkin.
I like how this channel is unironically great for considering what actual medieval adventurers go through for the purpose of writing them.
As someone who wants to write a (mostly) realistic medieval fantasy novel, this channel is a blessing
HE LEFT HIS SWORD BEHIIIIIND
The high neck cloak is genius
So one of the historical sources we do have for a medieval lacing system is in How a man shall be armed at his ease, in that I believe we see a spiral lacing system rather than a crossed back and fourth system like with shoes, presumably because it was faster and didn't need to be held under as much tension. As far as anachronistic solutions go you might be able to adapt one of the quick lacing systems for shoes to your ranger tunic.
Esp with aglets for quick spiral lacing.
I see some people have already commented this, but spiral lacing is the more historically accurate way of lacing a garment and is a bit quicker to do up as well, especially when using a bodkin or a blunt needle to essentially sew your garment shut through the eyelets. While cross lacing was occasionally used, it was more decorative rather than practical.
Adding a brass aglet would serve as a permanently attached needle to the cord.
The vambraces, unfortunately, would probably need to be remade and custom fitted to you.
As for the ranger tunic/vest, I know it wont be historically correct or anything, but a zipper under the arm for quick equip/unequip once it's laced up, with an extra length of leather to cover it. Alternatively, I had designed a chain 'robe' or long coat after seeing one of Geralt's outfits in Witcher 3, and the idea I came up with for it is to overlay one side, and use hook clasps through a loop secured to the chain, or through some kind of pin kind of like the pins of a hood latch for cars. Something like that instead of the zipper on your side under the arm could work.
The horizontal sword problem could be fixed with something called a sword frog; specifically one with a swivel point. You come to the issue of whether or not the sword sits at the correct height then, however; thought it wasn't uncommon for swordsmen to have a second belt just for the sword, so depending how you go about it, it may not even look out of place.
"I made gloves out of scraps of hide/leather I just had laying around. Simply looked at how they could fit, and sewed them together." - probably the most fantasy ranger thing I've ever heard. lol 👍
"Lacing" to me seems like a good way to FIT an item of clothing that would otherwise not be fitted, you adjust the lacing to where it fits you and then leave it, using some _other_ fastener for actually taking the piece on and off. I agree that having it as the _primary_ fastener is impractical.
For your boots, you might want to consider something like talking to the people at a Son of Sandlar booth at a RenFaire...they're some of the best at medieval boots for purchase and if they aren't busy, they love to talk shop with people who do their own. Even great to talk about other leather things and issues with it.
Very interesting!
If you want more grip in the shoe, add felted inlays, it's a difference like day and night.
Mayby try to put the soles in olive oil over a day, that should make them very elastic again, except if they where treated with chemicals that could repell the oil, of course.
I got no problem with the grip of my shoes and I also put the skin side of the vegetable tanned leather crupon to the outside. How was the leather for your soles tanned? Mayby that causes the issues.
Take a ring belt and tie a clove hitch around the scabbard. It will hang vertical and out of your way. When ready to draw or just rest your hand on it, it will tilt forward to allow you to draw easier. The tightness of the ring belt changes the angle you can tilt it too. Worked for the Norse.
the portal to the Shadlands opened! lol
😂❤ SHADiversity 😂😂😂😂 LMFAOOO
Shad is a fantasy novelist and not a legitimate source of information.
@LuminOfMoonlight he's a source of information who became a novelist. Get the order right.
@@thekaxmax lol
@@Caseyuptobat and?
Wait!!! Kramer!!! Take me with you!!!
For your leather jerkin. Spiral lacing was most common during the high and late Medieval periods. Spiral would make it a lot easier to get on and off over your head. The only problem with your extant garment is the holes ideally be offset, not parallel to each other. One single lace can be tightened or loosened without having to unthread it. The excess lace can be tucked away down the top.
For the tunic, cut the sides and add fabric or other light material to make it large enough to put over head when laced. Use straps with double ring or buckles to tighten sides once on.
For the Vanbraces and the sliding problem, you could try sewing loops into the arms of your tunic for the buckle straps to feed through.
If your favorite red tunic has long enough sleeves, cuff them back over the vambraces. That should help keep the vambraces from slipping down over your wrists.
Thank you for the great content!...
I live in the middle east and also have a linen cape, except mine is a ruana cloak. I swear by that thing. Something i picked up from this channel.
as a lad with big forearms (blacksmithing will do that to you), I feel you on the vambraces. I have NEVER found a set that was comfortable outside of plate armour custom-fitted to me, so for my skirmisher kit at Bicolline I'm just going to have to risk a hit to the forearm rather than have to constantly fidget with uncomfortable armour that compromises my wrist movement
Is it just me or does red and brown just look really good together :)
Check out options for spiral lacing- this is a common way women's medieval kirtles are done up, and it's much faster than the classic crossed lacing we're used to. You may also find t faster to lace them with linen or wool cord instead of leather, it'll have less friction as you lace
Might I suggest Sodhopper's Moccasins, they look great and best of all they are without a doubt THE most comfortable shoes I have ever purchased. I have 2 sets, wore them both at the Reckoning larp and they served me well. My wife loves her pair as well. The great thing about your leather vest is that it's leather. Nothing stopping you from adding thicker leather plates to it. Even the situation with the laces remove the grommets add a thicker piece of leather folded over it and go with your gambeson style laces instead. The same deal with your vambraces just add a leather top piece extension so you can connect it higher up. Great video, love your work. :)
I just love your clothing. The colors are so rich and warm. I'm jealous!
I would probably make a carrying harness/baldrick for the sword, sling it on my back for long marches, pop it on the hip for when I expect combat. Could even make some kind of quick release tab for emergencies, grab and yank, the harness and scabbard drops off the blade at the back leaving the blade ready to use.
also I have a strong suspicion that you can use three strings, one permanently wrapped on each side and one in the middle to"sew" the two together, which would be much quicker than the current method
Actually I like this one a lot, I'm gonna try this right now
CLOAKS?! CLOAKS!
Really good quality video, i would also love to see when you craft something. Crafting and manufacturing videos is one of my favorite things.
Leaving the top buckle of the gambeson undone is a great stylistic choice, gives you John Wayne/Tom Selleck vibes that really work well with your more timeless build and body type. I like the actors that played Bormir and Aragorn in the films. But you look like a bit more like someone from a tapestry or old manuscript illumination. Especially since you and your clothes tend to be cleaner and neater than the grungy aesthetic of the jackson films.
I love that ending! Lol
Your kits have always looked fantastic
Bro the gambeson looks so good though
Another amazing video, thank you! I don't have sewing skills or full knowledge of clothes of the era, but I'm a bit of a Tinkerbell (not the jealous, homicidal one from Peter Pan lore, but the engineer-minded one from her Disney movies). My first thoughts as I watched your video were: 1. why not add buttonholes or a loop to the braces and attach them to your tunic as you do the forearm sleeve extensions? It would keep them from sliding down. 2. can you add a lining to the gambeson to create the weight and protection you desire? 3. can you cut one or both side seams of the ranger tunic and add buckles or buttons to secure it? There are many lace-up items of women's clothing that have a side zipper or other closure so you don't have to lace it up every time. 4. Sounds like you have the boots sorted out for next time, but again, I'm wondering if a buttonhole or loop could be added to attach them to your legwear to keep them up so you don't have to rely on the tightness of the lacing. Also, did they use garters back then? Garters could help with the braces and the boots. I know you get many comments on your videos, but I (and maybe your other followers?) would love to know why these are not acceptable fixes. Thanks again, Happy Adventuring!!
A reenactment group I work with adds slats to their shoes for grip. Horizontal strips of thick leather across the width of the foot repeated up and down the length. It adds substantially to grip in the forward-backward direction, though less so sideways, which takes a little getting used to.
No real evidence for this historically, but they consider it a matter of safety, due to issues you described. They can be tacked in place if you have a last, but i would recommend keeping the insole if so. Else you could stitch them in at either side, like your toe-seam.
Either way, some flexible "leather glue" will help prevent peeling.
The struggles between achieving a certain look and comfort are definitely something that is relatable.
I'm not sure what they are called but I have seen a wooden cylinder style button that tapers at both ends. And it either fastens to a button hole or a leather loop. These might work better for your vest.
They're called toggles and are quite traditional on knitted cardigans. You can generally find them at sewing/fabric suppliers.
Those arming swords look really cool.
10:33 I think you can modify that to work like buttons by using a short loop of string on one side and a longer loop with a knot or a button or horn shaped button on the other. This way you still keep the stringy look but it's not as much of a PITA to dress-undress. Also something like this can be done with flat/round buttons on the inside so it's hidden
Great idea!
@@LivingAnachronismJust saw your vid.
I wear a pair of Roman caligae over my leather boots. Great for grip in the outdoors and can be removed when entering a building with wooden or stone floor.
Also in winter you can add a layer of (fake) rabbit furs as a layer between the caligae and boot.
I’m now starting to experiment with wearing mail socks as the inbetween layer for combat reinactment.
A bit of advice for you add a thicker piece of leather over the upper forearm and point it through the added leather by adding a button under the short sleeve of you short gambison arm pieces
I know you place your arrows on the right side of the bow and use the European three finger draw. I have been practicing using the Asian thumb release with a thumb ring (mine is leather) from the right side of my horse bow. I find it a very comfortable method of releasing arrows once you get the hang of locking the arrow to a bow without a shelf. It also seems to be easier for me to place my arrows on target. Adding a thumb pad to your glove should be a simple process and might even add a bit of additional lore to your Ranger's storyline. Just a thought.
5:27 Yes, as a ranger i'v found myself in many a rangering scenarios
Likewise 😂
I'm sorry to say this but lacing garments was VERY common especially for arming clothes. Though buttons and points are historically accurate but particularly for arming doublets and 15th century doublets they are laced up.
Also yep longswords/bastard swords are inconvenient to wear it's why arming swords of various sizes never really disappeared they are useful and convenient
There’s a wonderful 13th(maybe?) century effigy or statue of some sort (I’ll find the reference if you’re interested) that shows what some people have interpreted as knotted ropes sewn to the bottom of the shoes at the heel and the ball of the foot that could be helpful to improve traction
For your boots do toggle buttons up the outside of the boot or the inside whichever is best for you
Type 14 arming swords are really nice. I have the older Windlass model that had been replaced with their upgraded model based on the one in the Royal Armories. It is a wonderful sword and handles beautifully. Shockingly they are not much lighter than some longswords, though. With the current model weighing in at 2lbs 6 oz.
As for the longsword, check out some different historical belting styles. I believe Todd's channel has a video on different belting systems.
Your videos are fantastic. I plan to go to another faire this year, maybe two. I've watched several of your videos for tips and help as a new comer to the experience, some twice. I appreciate everything you do for this community. Thanks a ton!
You should consider using a one-handed axe as your main weapon. As a ranger, it would be a useful tool in general and also double as a nice, compact weapon that doesn't add unnecessary burden while traveling.
For the boots: Could you apply your lesson from the sole to the sides of the boot? Make just the sides where the seams are 3 layer to stiffen the sides, letting you have good front to back motion while having the stiff sides to hold it up. Then when tied on the top the stiff sides would help keep the boots in place rather than falling down kinda like modern cowboy boots
I wonder if adventurers would develop the same "cotton kills" cos it holds water view that hikers do today? Perhaps they'd split into "scratchy" wool & "squeaky" leather camps, with cotton lovers traveling from the deserts and getting the tut-tut treatment :)
And good luck on your adventure, mate. Spare a thought for all the fellows who got isekai'd by being hit by a truck rather than have a magic portal conveniently show up lol
I never thought to stick my dagger through the hole in the bag! I was trying to figure out how to wear my foam dagger for my khajiit cosplay
If you're looking for genuine heavy leather to use for a breastplate check and see if there's a local saddler that does repairs. They might have a source for the really good stuff (shoulder leather from a full grown bull or ox vs the usual belly leather sold in craft shops or veal hide used for bong shop punk jackets).
I'm a recent sub to your channel. Just wanted to say keep up the great content! Its given me some ideas and inspiration for leveling up my own ren faire garb!
On the boots one wonders if a hobnail sole for treks might be worth looking into in addition. Like having a pair of marching boots and a separate pair of ranging moccasin for utility.
Email Ruth Goodman of the BBC "Farm" series, she does the sewing of clothes for the series where they showcase costumes made by hand when they are made like period pieces. She had one show where she made the battle tunic and it was amazingly tough but almost immovable. I would bet she'd get back to you! Ask her about the sleeves and shoes. Love your content, wish their was a creator like you for women's gear!
re boots, loads of reenactors had slippy boot syndrome, hobnails are very easy to add, but then you cant wear indoors. a lot of people sewed/glue strips to give traction ridges i remember, and so glued rubber soles just for safety....also theres slip on hobnail over boots, bit like crampons/roman sandals on top of boots
That portal looked suspiciously like the Utah/Arizona desert. I hope you brought plenty of water...
Look at bazubands to replace the bracers the style that has an attached elbow cop instead of an integrated one would be optimal for what you're looking for
I got a windlass type 14 a while back. I'd definitely recommend that profile of sword for convenience of wear. You could almost forget you had it on. I'd certainly consider getting a better quality one, either from Todd Cutler or valiant armoury.
Todd Cutler and Valiant Armory are literally the two makers I am looking at right now. Type XIV is my favorite style ATM. Such a beautiful design
It's hard to beat Tod, but I really love the variety of choices in dye that valiant armoury has. I mean a type XIV with Antique blue scabbard and grip would look👌.
Also I like the leaf bladed swords valiant makes as well, and the fact that they used to make the 'heron' which was inspired by the heron marked blades in the wheel of time books is just plain awesome.
"That time I got summoned as a practical western fantasy ranger to a trash isekai setting"
AUGH!!! He went through the portal with his buckler, but forgot a sword!!!! Oh, perdition, you fickle mistress!!
If you’re intent on changing your sword out, you couldn’t have chosen a better source. Tod Cutler has done at least a couple of videos on suspension systems ranging from the rough-and-ready to the ornate fit for nobles.
He goes into sufficient detail that you can craft your own given materials and tools if you decide to try to improve the system you’re currently using that’s not working for you. If you go for the Spanish frog system, free hint: make cardboard models to test fit first.
(No affiliation, just a fan)
Ain't it "Tod", with on D? Also about the boots, maybe make a new sole and stud it through to the bottom so you get the side of the leather you want plus some studs for more traction?
Shad has made a vid about one decent arming sword, that looked like Boromir's one. Cheap as well
replace your laces with dongle and loop a monkey fist dongle or a marlin knot dongle will allow you to use the same lace you already have anglers knot or a simple bight and ovehand knot for the loop
boots should secure just below the knee and above the calf if you place it right no binding or pain but the boot will stay in place easily ... think sqian dubn and flashes for the scotish look
If you want to keep the bracers and be more comfortable, while not necessarily historically accurate, a forearm gambeson like what Boromir and Aragorn use under the leather Gondor Bracers works really well. Raises the bracer off your arm a bit and stops it slipping down, and makes it easier to have tight and remain comfortable, rather than putting it straight onto tunic/shirt sleeve. I found hardened leather bracers really uncomfortable if I had to move my wrist in a way where it would end up rubbing against the edge of the bracer. Arm gambeson completely solved it - and would be keeping with the LotR inspired aspects. A God of War style arm wrap can serve the same purpose.
Maybe keep the lacing in the front and put belt buckles on the sides to allow it to come off like a shirt
nice hype for your next video!
I dig it.
To one with my sort of mind, that's a hilariously suggestive way to carry a bollock dagger. Otherwise, everything looks great and I'll have to keep some of this in mind.
At least he isn't carrying it in the traditional spot.
Which is to have you bollock hanging front and center for the world to see.
Very nice outtro!
You could keep the bastard sword but make a "Shad-Back-scabbard"
Love this channel
And of course, he goes through the portal without his sword. 😮
sweet kit
As others have said, spiral laces.
Ref your boots, I have a failing down problem with my gaiters and it because they need to sit above my calves. Currently they sit on the middle of my calves which is basically the thick part of the leg.
Hey Kramer, great video. I always get excited when I see a video about anything ranger-esque.
As for the sword, have you considered a Falchion sword as a ranger weapon? Shadiversity made a video about weapons for a fantasy ranger.
I have, and I do think a falchion is a very practical option. But as a human who is not entirely rational, I can't help but prefer an arming sword or long sword aesthetically :)
Have you seen the new larp scabbards from Epic Armoury? They look a lot better then their old larp scabbards
Something made of scraps is very historical. Leather was expensive.
Awesome video! I have to say, I have a Ranger's Cloak from Fell & Fair myself, but unfortunately, it wasn't to my liking. The main problem being it's way, way too short for me. It barely reaches my knees, giving more of a Hobbit feel rather than a ranger. However, the linen itself is amazing, and I plan on making a tunic out of it instead, so as not to just waste it or sell it.
As far as your sword change the frog the sword can hang how ever you want
#1: you forgot your sword when you took off.
#2: can't argue with the arming sword but you can modify the hanger for your current blade, you have the skill.
#3: heavily research moccasins from North America, most didn't last long but darn if you don't get amazing ground feed back!
#4: you might not ever be happy with the boots so stick with what you have, they have lasted a year!
new Kramer? nice!
With the boot would it make sense to put an extra optional sole in the boots? So it can be barefoot without but more protective with it in?
Or ig you could make a thicker pair of sort of.. slippers that you put on over the other boot to add a layer.. they might make more sense since theyd also protect the thin sole of the boot..
I have no idea how accurate either of these are tho
Have you done anything for medieval archery protection? Did they use gloves or finger protection for their draw hand?
You've discovered one of three reasons why the otherwise awesome moccasin sucks.
One is planting your heel on a rock just under the size of a marble. Parents are familiar with this through those one-post Legos that venture out at night across the floor.
Second, when soaked they seem to have been made from the skin from the back of granny's arm or her neck. They often become floppy, oversized clown moccasins when soaked.
Finally, your discovery. They can be slick on grass. "Can" as opposed to "are", as there are some things to consider. It has been said that wearing moccasins is a fancy way of going barefoot, but that is, essentially, their raison d'etre and the whole point. Just as you said you like to feel and curve your toes, so are moccasins designed for. With the exception of certain styles incorporating harder soles for cactus, etc., moccasins are soft soled. We defeat this purpose when trying to make shoes of them, and sacrifice their science.
We, naturally, think that a supplementary sole should be a good, thick chunk of leather. Today, this is found in vegetable tans primarily. We affix this to the only part of us that touches the ground and head off. When reaching a slight hill covered in grass or other treacherously deviant similar obstacle, we find things difficult. We have forgone the rigidity, support and reinforcement of a cobbled footwear and the grabbiness of a moccasin for a hybrid combination that falls short in this assignment.
Moccasins were made of braintan, or other similar process that breaks down the glues in the hide and works the fibers to retain a suppleness when dry. The process is completed ONLY when the tanned hide is thoroughly smoked in order to regain that suppleness in the event of a future wetting. If not smoked, your hard work breaking it down will turn into that rigid fiberglass-of-the-frontier rawhide when dry again.
Due to the process of braintanning, I feel the breaking down step prepares the leather for a soaked feet day FAR better than moccasins made of modern chrome tanned deerskin. Braintan has the shiny part scraped off, which gets a bit like handkerchief filler when wet. Braintan will allow your toes to grip better. Forego the added thick smooth soles if wet grass is in your future of moccasinning.
Well, that didn't help at all, but at least you know a bit more than anybody's ever wanted to know about moccasins.
I seldom wear them any more after many years of daily wear. Now, I wear 18th C buckled, straightlast shoes or tall two-piece boots. For wet, cactus, etc. I find these footwear superior to moccasins. They're pretty good with the occasional wild Lego, too.
For snow, any unlined footwear of leather is unsuitable. I prefer wooden shoes for the insulation and dryness properties. Not much of a slipping problem, either.
Oh, and always "wear the hide as the animal did". Try not to wear leather fleshside/inside out.
so that's how he got to the Shad lands
Any recommendations for linen tunics for hotter months?
Fell and Fair makes good 100% linen tunics. I usually rock the short sleeved version.
@@user-kl5zd2oe3e Thanks! Mind sharing your thoughts on their fit? Do they run tight or loose compared to the clothing you usually wear?
Use very thin wool. Wool is the next best thing to magic cloth we have. It keeps you warm, it keeps you cool.
@@Glimmlampe1982 Noted. Thank you!
@@builtbybittle Not a problem! I'm a big guy with a 48" chest and the XL fits like a T shirt. I would prefer if it was a little more loose, but it does a good job. Looks good too! It does shrink a little in the wash. I personally don't have enough room for layers; my persona is kind of a big, tough guy, especially for a ranger, so I don't mind showing off the guns. I love linen. I live in a hot environment and linen is what I like. It breathes and dries fast. Fell and fair is a good brand. I also have a long sleeve tunic, a belt, a waxed canvas satchel and some bracers. The bracers are also pretty comfy. A little thinner than what I'm used to, but they are bison and pretty supple for 8-10 oz leather.
If you get an arming sword, do you think you'll carry a buckler or something?
Most of the time yes. That's essentially why I made my smaller targe shield, I'm preparing to make the transition
@@LivingAnachronism Noice. Sword and buckler is kino
You should have grabbed the sword before going thru the portal. 😊
Kramer is off on an adventure and this week so am i
Kramer is off being a Ranger and im off to be a dwarf
i wonder who will return faster?
oh shit he forgot his sword, better find a good stick in that fantasy portal
Anyone have any tips for the style of cloak mentioned here for crafty people? The circle cloak I made has this choking issue and a sewing pattern for a better fit would be appreciated but I’m not sure what to look for.
Not sure how to craft the pattern, someone in my discord could probably help, but the way this one is designed, instead of a flat neck line, it's pulle up higher like a cone in the back. So the line in the center of your neck is the highest point and it gently curves out towards the front of your shoulder. If you grab a blanket and wrap it around your shoulders and pull it up slightly and hold it in the front, you will have a weird bit of access in the back. That is essentially the shape. Instead of removing that excess, that's what the hood attaches to, and the front closes where you had your hand. That's sort of a tough description to follow, but I hope it helps
Dude made a dangerous mistake at the end. He grabbed a shield but forgot his sword so all he has is a dagger.
What will happen to me next?!
Seval evalutions
Would a sword belt have been a separate belt that one would wear along with a usual belt?
To my knowledge, yes, commonly the sword belt was integrated and part of the scabbard. I think Todd's Workshop has a few videos on the subject, showing different styles
@LivingAnachronism thanks Kramer. I did think it was as I grew up watching the Prince Valiant series, and I think he (I'll have to rewatch and confirm this it's on Plex) had a separate swordbelt but always wore his dagger.
@@DollopussD This is exactly what I do, one of the reasons I always recommend adventurer's wear two belts. One for daily wear, has a pouch with essentials, knife, dagger, etc. And one that is the adventuring kit belt, the one that can come off if necessary, Sometimes my kit belt is my sword belt, sometimes, it's separate and I actually end up wearing three!
By the sound of the issues with your sword it’s not so much you need a new sword but rather a new scabbard or shall I say…. A SHABBARD!!!
Todd from Todd cutlery could probably make you a dirt just like you want customized for a very reasonable y'all can collab too and you will both boost each others use probably just an idea
I would have to imagine a person in medieval times would be unsatisfied with their gear and constantly wishing they could improve it, so your dissatisfaction is historically accurate.😊
Lace systems very inaccurate? Dude evey woman’s bodice from 1500 to 1800 was laced, also all the corsets. Mens combat clothing was also laced for a big chunk of the middle ages. I think a lot of us have this idea that practical=easy to take off. Which isn't true especially in an era when you basically didn't add or remove any peices of clothing between wake up and go to bed.
If you want to get technical, his are inaccurate for a couple reasons.
Metal grommets and cross lacing was not really a thing.
It was usually sewn buttonholes and spiral lacing.