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KNIGHT TUNICS

Items  1 - 15 of 15
Items  1 - 15 of 15

Medieval Surcoats & Tabards – The Knight's Heraldic Garment

Leonardo Carbone offers high-quality surcoats and tabards made from 100% cotton – lovingly designed at fair prices. This sleeveless overgarment has been worn by knights over their armor since the 12th century for identification through heraldic symbols and colors. Perfect for LARP, reenactment, and Renaissance fairs.

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What Types of Surcoats Are Available?

The variety of medieval surcoats reflects the colorful world of knightly orders and noble houses. Solid-colored surcoats in muted tones like black, natural, or red serve as a neutral base for custom heraldic designs. Mi-parti surcoats (divided into two colors) were especially popular during the High and Late Middle Ages, featuring the classic split between two contrasting halves. For Crusader portrayals, we offer surcoats with order crosses – from the Templar cross to the Maltese cross. All our tabards are made from sturdy cotton with straight cuts and side slits for maximum freedom of movement.

Who Are Surcoats Best Suited For?

The surcoat is essential for anyone portraying a knight, crusader, or medieval warrior. LARP players use the tabard for quick faction identification – colors and symbols make allies and enemies recognizable at a glance. Reenactment groups appreciate our surcoats for historically-inspired portrayals of order knights like Templars, Hospitallers, or Teutonic Knights. At Renaissance fairs, a surcoat completes any knight outfit with a touch of elegance. Our knight tunics are also popular for theater and film productions as well as medieval-themed weddings.

Styling Tips: How to Wear Your Surcoat

A surcoat is traditionally worn over a tunic or gambeson. For an authentic look, we recommend a wide leather belt to cinch the surcoat at the waist. Underneath, pair with medieval pants or hose and turnshoes. For knight portrayals, you can wear the tabard over a chainmail shirt – creating the classic crusader look. Add a cloak for colder days.

Quality & Materials at Leonardo Carbone

Since 1999, we've been crafting historically-inspired garments for customers in over 40 countries. Our surcoats are made from 100% cotton – a durable, easy-care natural material. The construction features reinforced seams at all stress points. Every tabard is crafted with attention to detail: clean appliqués, colorfast fabrics, and generous cuts for freedom of movement. We believe in fair prices without compromising on quality.

What Is a Surcoat?

A surcoat is a sleeveless, knee-length to calf-length overgarment worn over armor during the Middle Ages. The term comes from the Old French "surcot," meaning "over the coat." Also known as a tabard or knight's tunic, it served practical functions: protecting metal armor from sun and rain while identifying the wearer through coat of arms and colors.

What's the Historical Origin of the Surcoat?

The surcoat developed during the 12th century Crusades. The intense Middle Eastern sun made heat protection for metal armor necessary. From this practical need emerged an iconic garment that soon gained heraldic significance. By the 13th century, surcoats became carriers of family crests and order symbols.

What's the Difference Between a Surcoat and a Tabard?

The terms are often used interchangeably but describe slightly different cuts. The surcoat is the longer, flowing overgarment from the High Middle Ages. The tabard is shorter, open at the sides, and was later worn especially by heralds. In our shop, you'll find various styles – from the classic long surcoat to the practical short tabard.