From the world of cloak and dagger… HEMA cape in two ways
This time we have something from the world of cloak and dagger. Some time ago we received a custom gear request from a well-known Fechtschule. They wanted us to make and test a completely new product: a cloak for rapier fencing.
You know we are not afraid of challenges. We have prepared a dedicated cloak in two versions:
- a completely new cloak from the 350N fabric and lining
- a classic gear from thick wool and lining (like centuries ago)
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Cloak as a successor of shield?
Naturally, various cloaks were used as a form of clothing for centuries. A simple cape was a perfect protection against outer factors like rain, snow, cold, and even sunbeams. At the same time it was universal, unisize and easy to get dressed.
When people stopped using traditional shields, a cape gained a new role. With a proper cut (not too heavy, not too long), a cloak could be used as a form of clothing instantly changed into fencing gear. A fencer wrapped his hand with it and used it as a shield during fight, mostly with the use of a rapier.
Cloak for HEMA
Can we use this gear in HEMA? Sure! Among the modern HEMAists, mostly lovers of rapier, using a cape is nothing new, but still it is a kind of niche within a niche.Thus, we suggest testing the HEMA cloak on your own.
Design of the HEMA cape is based on the three quarters of a circle. Both HEMA cloaks have the same length: 110 cm from the neck cutout to the bottom. Capes differ in weight: the classic HEMA cloak from wool is around 1,3 kg, while the modern 350N model is a little lighter. Both of them are fastened at the front with a leather lace with adjustable length.
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This type of HEMA cloak can be worn on shoulders or asymmetrically on one shoulder. To use it in your duel, pull it off and wrap it around your hand without a sword. You can do this faster if you wear the cape unfastened, or just by untying the lace really fast.
A niche within a niche or a product with a potential, that is the question. How do you like this type of cape? Should we make it a standard product?
@spes.histfenc #tiktokpoll let us know how you like this HEMA cloak! #rapier #historicalfencing #swordsman #historicaleuropeanmartialarts ♬ Way down We Go - KALEO
I have a cheap caps that I bought just for rapier. Something like this, that could be work as well as looking smart would definitely be on my 'must buy' list
Thanks for sharing your insight! :) Greetings from Spes
It would make me immensely happy to have an option of buying a cloak from a 350N fabric. It would be both fashionable and usable for sparring - I dare say that this new product could even expand the use of cloaks as an offhand weapon in many clubs! It would be a shame not to make it a standard product.
That's awesome, would be great to have it with a hood so that it can be used also as a cape for rain etc
I would love a wool cloak for rapier! ^_^
How much would the cloak in the two variations cost? I'd definitely be interested!
Hello i want a cloak 350n, how can i command it pls ? :)
Can we get a longer version? this cape in quite reminiscent of late 16th/17th century capes. I wouldnt mind seeing a version that goes over the knees.