BEST Cloak for a Medieval Adventurer

There are tons of cloak designs. But which which one would be best for a Medieval Adventurer? And which famous fantasy character wears it?
All of these cloaks look good and have ardent supporters, this is not meant to say that your choice is wrong, or that all other cloaks than my top pick are bad. This is just my opinion based on the criteria set forth in the video. Hope you enjoy!
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2:24 Mantel Cloaks
4:34 Bocksten Cloaks
6:18 Moroccan Burnoose
7:12 The Big Problem
12:04 Game Of Thrones Cloaks
13:45 Blanket Cloaks
14:46 Ruana Cloaks
21:18 Who Wears it??
Historical Cloak Pictures. I found a better source! It's ONLY Pictures!: www.larsdatter.com/cloaks.htm
-"Nowhere Land", "Wonderland", "Vetur Frosti", "Mjolnir", "Village Ambiance", "Dungeons and Dragons, "Winter Night", "Until the End" by Alexander Nakarada | www.serpentsoundstudios.com
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Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)
creativecommons.org/licenses/...

[@VimyGlide]

"NOOOO YOU CAN'T JUST MAKE THE BEST CLOAK BY CUTTING A SLIT IN A RECTANGLE" "haha scissors go snip"

[@Samtzu]

About 50 years ago I cut a slit in an Army Blanket and put my head through it. If I needed to, I would wrap a belt around it. It kept me warm on cold nights. Simple, and I'm almost old enough to make it historically accurate..... so it goes...

[@PastramiStaven]

@@Samtzu Almost old enough! :)

[@MarcillaSmith]

@@Samtzu As he was pulling out those mossy-colored wool rectangles, I too thought of the old blankets we had in the barracks. I also thought about the poncho with regard to the shapes, although not exactly, of course

[@Samtzu]

@@MarcillaSmith I have had a poncho liner for the last forty years, and use it as a light blanket.... which is basically all it is. When was in SE Asia I wore a REAL poncho a lot of the time.... I want to get another one. They were just the correct weight and thickness....

[@KedricVarangia]

Here in Colombia, the Ruana is a cloak from pre-Colombian times that is still used (made of oiled alpaca wool to repel rain) and it is literally a slit in a rectangle. It works, better than a raincoat because you can put it over top of your backpack, puppy, dozen eggs, lace doilies, whatever it is you're carrying.

[@pixledriven]

Re: not believing someone in the medieval would not think of the style, Gandalf's cloak is based on a real Roman cloak called the paenula. I have a wool one, it's amazing.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you for the info!

[@dannietuggle8954]

Sadly the Paenula doesn’t come up on google shopping search but sagum does.

[@elessarsgirl4883]

@@dannietuggle8954 I found it easily with patterns as well. But it doesn't look like the Ruana. It does, however, look Roman.

[@danicatempleton6745]

@@dannietuggle8954 There are some paenula cloaks for sale under the name of "oval cloak"

[@jasonjohnson6938]

@@dannietuggle8954 they're on kult of athena website

[@mikelastname9444]

Another important purpose of a cloak that is often overlooked is to keep the wearer safe from biting insects. When you lived before insect repellent, biting insects were a constant nuisance that could spread disease, and could often bite through a few layers of linen or wool. So a baggier outer layer where the cloth isn't resting directly on the skin helped immensely.

[@LordVltor]

I wear a classic cloak almost regularly, and live in a lagoon. I can confirm I had experienced all the pro and cons listed here, using it on a daily basis along with my tunic and cloak. I'll probably try the Gandalf tunic, tryin' up a small and large version, possibly with a clasp. My cloak's a ¾, but I've a full-wheel one that's incredibly heavy and encumbering, but damn warm. I'll need to experiment a bit.

[@themercer4972]

Having done a lot of hiking, I can say that one feature of a cloak I want is that it can fit over the back pack, protecting it from the elements. Sure it makes you look like a hunchback, but keeping the stuff in your pack dry is super important.

[@mikha007]

maybe the hunchback of Notre dam really had a pack under his cloak?

[@craftalchemy8621]

I was hoping someone would mention this: "Looking stupid" and "my backpack is super cool" doesn't negate that the cloak has the functionality that you are looking for. I wore the first cloak I ever made, a standard front opening one, for over a decade (until someone else lost it). It was my favorite piece for travel; both car and air. I am looking for a cloak that will help me thermo-regulate in the variety of temperatures I will encounter. When it's cold, I wrap up as tight as possible. When it's warm I throw it over my shoulders (I had nice tailored shoulder seams, so it rarely slid back on my neck when I did this). A cloak that doesn't cover my legs, is mostly just a fashion piece. I've done backpacks both under and over the cloak and it has always been fine. You get strange looks, but you'll get strange looks in any cloak.

[@richardcostello360]

If you have a tailored cloak you can flip it over your backpack (for rain protection) or flip it over my shoulders (for tasks/swordplay) All it takes is a tailored hood that's double layered to put the weight in the shoulders rather than on the clasp/tie point Maybe Australians have figured it out better, since we use them alot over here

[@justanothervoice2538]

"Lord of the Rings always gets a pass." -Living Anachronism Easily best quote of the year. You NEED to put that on a shirt.

[@dxmxrxsbxxckthxwxxdxlf3931]

Looking at the cover of the first movie of the trilogy, I am pretty sure that frodo was wearing a ruana clock but of a slightly different style

[@justanothervoice2538]

@@dxmxrxsbxxckthxwxxdxlf3931 In fact, I think even the Nazgul wear cloaks similar to the ruana, but with hoods incorporated.

[@willmfrank]

Add the slogan "You shall not pass!" with the word 'not' crossed out.

[@draikairion]

I agree with this comment! Lord of the Rings always gets a pass.....except if it's Rings of Power. We don't talk about RoP....

[@workingmothercatlover6699]

Shad sent me. He released a video with the purpose of directing his viewers to this video. From him, I want a gambeson. From you, I will add a cloak of the last style. Between you and Shad, I am gaining much knowledge.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you and welcome! Our grand army is starting to form a uniform. Gambesons and Ruana Wrap Cloaks. Nothing can stop us.

[@Rajaat99]

I am here due to Shad as well.

[@cyanotunes]

Glad shad sent me great video

[@fufu783]

I'm here from shad also I'm glad to see more people joining the community

[@Enyavar1]

Shad says "Hi" back!

[@lisagriffith665]

That moment when you realize the weird coat thing you bought years ago is actually a ruana cloak. Yes it's been a favorite since I set eyes on it.

[@sophielogic]

Legit!! I've got two now, from charity shops without know what they were. I was contemplating buying a cloak to wear outside for Winter, but it seems that basket needs emptying!!

[@FelicityUwU]

I have one too! It was given as a gift to me once, and I wore it down without part of it thrown over my shoulder, but now I'll have to wear it that way.

[@saphireflare4183]

I've a sweater in the Ruana style.vlike you I just realized it lol. Advantage is, it also has 2 pockets on the sleeves

[@alphie333]

As a human who has made and worn a lot of cloaks and capes…I gotta say I’m pretty impressed with your proposal. Purely from a construction stand point the lack of curved edges make my sewist heart soar. But from a practicality standpoint it’s also extremely tempting. I wear capes and cloaks through winter and the biggest issue I have is driving in them. I have to turn it into a Superman style cape before my car heats up and it’s not the most practical. Even with my ones that have arm holes it’s still kind of awkward. If I’m a passenger or walking it’s lovely. Cloaks are cones that naturally trap your body heat and reflect it back to you, and when not lined with poly liner (like a lot of modern coats are) they are extremely warm. I might have to experiment with this design come next winter. Wish I had seen it sooner!

[@chane8824]

Agreed; the seat belt turns the cloak into a straight-jacket almost.

[@vietbluecoeur]

Looking at my old blankets with scissors in my hand and a malicious glint in my eye! Ruana cloak it is for LARP, then! I think definitely either the blanket cloak or the Ruana cloak are what I'm looking for with both their versatility and aesthetic. I especially love the simpleness of the Ruana. It's just a rectangle with a slit and yet it looks so much more elaborate when worn! Thanks for the in-depth discussion of each kind of cloak, man, this was great!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Glad you enjoyed!

[@ianholcombe18]

Poncho gang!

[@0bsidianfire948]

I have bought several so-called "wraps" that I now realize are essentially thick woven/knit Ruana cloaks to wear IRL. They are amazingly warm and the perfect way to disguise that you're essentially bringing a big blanket with you to snuggle under when it's cold.

[@brandtbollers3183]

Rock a brooch sized to the weight of Your Fabric.To keep things settle3 when You Move.Your Set.

[@Segwyne]

This is the first video I have seen of yours and as a historical seamstress, I want to say, Well done! The Bocksten cloak that you showed is not particularly difficult to make if you have some basic geometry under your belt. The diagram did look intimidating, but that is probably because the extant garment was made before modern looms, and therefore the fabric was only a maximum of about 30" wide and therefore had to be pieced together. Today, with 60" wide fabric (wool or fleece, etc.) all you need is a string, a safety pin, and a piece of chalk (or whatever you use to mark your cutting lines). You need fabric that is twice as long as you want your cloak to be, plus about 19-12". Your string needs to be the length of your cloak plus 3" for a neckline plus 0-2" for your hem and tied to a piece of chalk, or a disappearing ink marker or what have you. A good melton wool, for example, doesn't need a hem, but a more loosely woven wool will need to be turned up once and stitched down so it doesn't fray. Fold your fabric in half, then take take two adjacent edges and fold them together so you have a sort of triangle. You can do this once or twice more if your fabric isn't very thick. Safety pin the end of your string (without the chalk) to the tip of the point, and stretch it down along the side and sweep the chalk around so you draw out a curve from one long edge to the other. This is your cutting line for your hem. Shorten your string to about 4.5" and do it again. This is where you cut out your neckline. Hem if needed, and voila! You have a half-circle cloak. For a full circle cloak, make two of these with a neckline of only 3" and then seam them together along one edge.

[@LivingAnachronism]

This is such an excellent comment, so detailed, thank you!

[@MizzMaree7]

I'd also like to point out that Gandalf's cloak looks like linen or hemp cloth as it is much more drapey than a wool. You can see light through the fabric in one of your shots. See 22:05. Looking for a great linen? Try Burnley and Trowbridge!

[@robertherman2453]

I've seen plenty done on the theory "okay, the short point is here, that's about here on the long point. STRAIGHT CUT!" similar with neckline

[@creativehorsequeen]

@@MizzMaree7 You can also go to a thrift store and get a flat bedsheet for a few bucks. It might be hard to find one in a solid color, but it's a great way to get a bunch of fabric for a few bucks.

[@creativehorsequeen]

Essentially, you make a circle skirt, add a hood and cut an opening,

[@karladenton5034]

As a weaver, ruanas are a very good 'second' project because they are basically just two very wide scarves stitched side by side down half their length. It's a good exercise in keeping a consistent wefts per inch down a long piece of cloth. I still have a couple of them that I wove decades ago and they are my perfect fall and spring outer layers. One suggestion for everyone - do reinforce the top of the slit to prevent it tearing deeper into either the cloth or seam (if you make your ruana from two lengths of fabric). I used a small triangle gusset made of a square of fabric folded corner to corner in my linen and silk ruana, and embroidered a satin stitch arrowhead over the point on the wool one.

[@saphireflare4183]

You just gave me an idea... crochet one. All I can do is squares and rectangles but if I do two rectangles then I could easily make one. Worked with a hooded scarf! (Really wide scarf sew one edge to itself in the middle to create a pocket and voila one hood)

[@BarokaiRein]

Great video but one addition to about ruana cloaks and hoods,you can actually just fold the ruana cloak in a way where it comes up as a hood. I have a perfectly normal ruana cloak myself and I noticed that if I just pull it up from the back where the split is and then throw one of the ''arms'' over my shoulder the whole thing just becomes a hooded cloak.

[@zigzaghyena]

Personally, Fandabi Dozi's channel has already sold me on the great kilt, which is basically a blanket cloak on steroids with clever methods of folding to keep it out of the way. But still, Gandalf, big selling point for the Ruana.

[@nohbdykairs5769]

I'm in the same boat as you, my friend. I'm kinda wondering how well the two would work together though.

[@plainsimple442]

I prefer the Great Kilt also thanks to Tom.

[@noraye2500]

Greetings sir. I just got sent here from Shadiversitys' recent video where he gave you a shoutout and enthusiastic recommendation and I have to say Shad was spot on. I'll be watching your career with great interest 😁

[@matthiuskoenig3378]

same

[@danielponce2463]

Same

[@metalman7825]

Riders of Shadland! what news of the mark?

[@tomasdawe4423]

Same

[@christopherkecun8349]

and my ... same.

[@anniejuan1817]

I have owned a simple ruana cloak, in a medium weight gray wool, since 1990. It has proven to not only be incredibly useful as a costume cloak, it looks very classy and elegant in real life. Equally at home at a day at a Renaissance faire, a night out on the town, or a on the way to a board meeting. Extremely versatile!!!

[@nightfall3605]

In my research on textiles for capes, wool is almost always the outer layer, with silk being the second most used. Plant based fabrics absorb water by their nature and would get super heavy. Linen, cotton and their derivatives rayon, viscose are best used as linings.

[@iprobablyforgotsomething]

Silk is also great because it's breathable and very lightweight and if treated or blended with other materials, is moisture wicking. Makes a decent if pricey base layer material, a good option for warmer weather.

[@redstarling5171]

Depends on your environment in a cold weather country I would definitely go for wool, here in Australia I'm about to make some of these from cotton canvas and ill spray the exterior side with a water repellent spray. Should be light enough for our hot dry weather but provide good protection from the sun and dust with some rain protection.

[@nightfall3605]

@@redstarling5171 I love my Aussie Outback coat - cotton canvas treated to be water resistant. Wool already has oil (lanolin) naturally to provide the water resistance.

[@carlosalbin7706]

Hi Living Anachronism Shad from Shadiversity says hello. In his latest video, "Best Cloaks for a medieval adventurer", was more like a 10 minute praise fest on how good you are as a content creator. He says you are both professional and passionate about your subjects and that we should really give you a shot. Here it is man. Let us see how far you go.

[@martinm3474]

I sit as a witness, Shad did such a thing as Fanboy your work.

[@jones1171]

Shadiversity sent us insta-sub. This video answered questions that I have had for a very long time about cloaks. I recently purchased a very nice mantle cloak. This purchase caused me to think on how I could improve it only to find that Shad recommended this video solving that very conundrum for me. Your content is amazing! Go forward boldly adventurer!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you, friend! Welcome!

[@zxyatiywariii8]

@@LivingAnachronism I'm woefully late in discovering your channel (I'm a new sub) so now I'm binge watching your older videos. . . You have an awesome channel! I want to add -- the armhole cloaks are terrible in windy conditions! They can essentially funnel the wind (and snow or rain or sleet) directly onto my body. I got a nice cloak at a LARP barter that had arm holes, so I learned this first hand. I ended up sewing them closed, and the improvement in warmth was amazing. Also the exact problem (7:48) of being strangled (whether by a foe or by a thorny branch, lol) is a definite drawback to that style, which I've seen happen to friends IRL. However, I found the crossed-front, tied-in-back cloak excellent (it might be more comfortable for women? -- by running each strap under a breast) but that's because I'm not usually wearing a backpack. I agree about the ruana style cloak being THE most versatile; and I know I've seen illuminations in Medieval books of people wearing cloaks like this, I wish I could remember exactly where. And like you, I wear mine in my 21st century life as well. It's incredibly convenient and warm and versatile (especially because winters in Minnesota can hit minus-40 sometimes!) Just like mittens can be warmer than gloves, cloaks can be warmer than coats.

[@veetirislakki5270]

The Irish Wrap/Ruana cloak style is absolutely perfect for one of my fantasy novel's main characters. Thank you for making this video, it helped me alot in designing the clothing of my novel and everyhting else. Have a sub!

[@charlesstanford1310]

Last winter I didn't wear my coats at all, I went with blanket cloaks instead: a tartan throw, a Swiss army blanket, and a patu/patoo from Pakistan. But what you've shown here . . . There's an eye opener and no mistake!

[@annasolovyeva1013]

You probably don't have a harsh winter where you live.

[@DuckcuD]

I think that it would make alot of sense to use a moderate weight Ruana Cloak and also carry a blanket, if it is very cold you could wear the Ruana like a tunic as you showed while also wearing the blanket ontop and when it comes to sleeping roll the Ruana up into a pillow or use it purely for ground cover while you use the blanket as normal pair it with a separate hood that comes down to mid chest and I would imagine that it would offer a huge amount of versatility without really adding any more weight or bulk than what you would have to be carrying anyway

[@LivingAnachronism]

If all the pieces are seperate, I could imagine using the ruana as ground cover, the blanket as the bedroll and then stuffing the hood with spare clothes or soft material for your pillow. I haven't used the Ruana as ground cover yet since I haven't slept out in the open with it

[@wardenm]

@@LivingAnachronism The nice thing about a standard ruana, particularly a lighter wool one, is how universal they are. They're easily foldable and wearable in a variety of styles/weather conditions, can be strung up as a windbreak or lean to with ease, used as a pillow, blanket, ground cover, head cover, used as a sack, for smoke signals, tied to a pack easily... Several other things as well. Add in the free range of arm movement and ease of access to weapons, they just seem all around ideal to soldiery on the march and such, as well as adventures.

[@brandtbollers3183]

I am Blessed With only Marrying Seamstresses..My Yondering Rig is a Green Silk and Chasmere Burnose ie Poncho with a Hood.and A half circle Mantle with Hood.This covers about90% of it Outdoors.Thats what I Sleep under or on top of have a Deer hide to sit/ Lie on .Will Try to Get Pics to Share.

[@wolf1066]

That sounds like a good combination for bedding and warmth while travelling - and modular enough to regulate the layers as required.

[@marcogenovesi8570]

it's amazing how many different things you can pull off with just a basic design like that. Truly the ONE cloak to rule them all

[@Genktarov]

Another answer to this question is the Scottish Great Kilt. Fandabi Dozi has some great videos on it-with one garment, you get the following configurations: 1. Used as a sleeping bag or other shelter. 2. Worn down around the hips with pockets-in this configuration you can easily wear a pack and you get extra storage from the pockets. You can also wear this with some fabric over the shoulder to reduce weight on the hips. 3. You can flip the tail over your head to get quick rain coverage when you need it. 4. If you undo the pockets, tie the tails together, and put this over configuration 3, you get a rain poncho with sleeves. I’ve used this on hikes and, while fairly heavy, it does a very good job of being out of the way and cool while down and very cozy and insulative while flipped up around like a coat.

[@ctproductions66]

Rangers apprentice is so underated

[@DravenC]

"The drapage is on point" hehe also, love the pros list for the Ruana cloak...how one line just says "Gandalf"

[@LivingAnachronism]

Honestly I could have just said Gandalf and that might have been enough haha!

[@DravenC]

@@LivingAnachronism It would have for me! lol

[@RainMakeR_Workshop]

The Bocksten Cloak is more specific than a side closing cloak, It's button closing (not clasp) and tailored to drape over the neck and shoulder in a more comfortable way than a plain untailored cloak would. Knyght Errant has a video on his reproduction of the Bocksten Cloak, talking about its design. Also (as you suspected) arm holes in cloaks aren't purely a women's cloak thing. I've seen images of real medieval art on Shadiversity's channel showing men with arm holes in their cloak. I can't say which vid, I just know I've seen it.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thanks Krulty, I'll add the Knight Errant video as a card, I forgot to do that. I may try making a cloak with arm holes to test that out.

[@RainMakeR_Workshop]

@@LivingAnachronism a friend of mine has a cloak with armholes. Its very practical imo. At least for regular use rather than adventuring. Though I do quite like that Ruana cloak. Might have to get one.

[@Gstrowes]

Still in use in Scotland and by pipe bands around the world, The "Inverness Cape"

[@andrewstambaugh8030]

@@Gstrowes Thanks for including that name. I wondered why I didn't see any combo mantle sleeve versions here. The addition of the second mantle means you could work and have most of your arms covered or wear a backpack, but can also use it just like a regular mantle cloak for quick throw it on times.

[@mehitablestorm8877]

People have always been practical, it makes sense that they would have them.

[@michaelangelomaimone3181]

And because it releases quickly, you can use it as an offhand “weapon” if you don’t have a dagger. Rapier and cape or cloak is probably the second most popular “dual wielding” method after rapier and dagger.

[@mauschen2637]

in esgrima crioula you can use the pala (or poncho) with the dagger or a knife

[@michaelangelomaimone3181]

@@mauschen2637 I should have been less or more specific, either more vague with “weapon and dagger and weapon and cloak” or more specific “in European fighting styles”

[@zentierra7803]

Yes, yes, YES for the Ruana cloak! I have five of them, in different colors (three with lovely, muted rustic designs) and the beauty of it was that I got the aforementioned three, ridiculously cheap on sale, at World Market, of all places! And yes, the most wonderful thing about these cloaks is their versatility...and the fact that you can wear them in all - even thoroughly "modern" - settings, and with all types of clothing. This is the first time I've seen someone give them their just due as a medieval/ LARP/ fantasy staple. ♥

[@juanfelipegodoy4011]

I still think in terms of versatility a wool kilt would be best bc you can use it as a blanket at night and for weather protection during the day

[@LivingAnachronism]

I'll have to get my hands on a great kilt at some point to do some tests, it's been recommended too many times to ignore at this point haha! Though I have used this cloak as a blanket in conjunction with other pieces while camping before.

[@thewombat8039]

Fandabidozi here on KZbin does wilderness treks in 17th - 18th century highland kit.

[@Kaotiqua]

Great kilt ftw.

[@phlippbergamot5723]

@@thewombat8039 I second the Fandabidozi channel. He really puts the Kilt to the test, and shows how to make one. Just a really long blanket really.

[@charlesstanford1310]

The great kilt is a lot of fun, very useful and versatile. It's a bit of a job to get it pleated and belted just right.

[@whitneyellis834]

Perfect timing! A cloak and pair of gloves were going to be my next purchases for my larp as the colder months are coming. This video is really informative, clear, and wrapped up nicely. Just what I needed! Thank you for the great video!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Glad it was helpful! Can't wait for the cold weather.

[@themodernmusketeer877]

As someone who practices HEMA, I'd be interested in finding out how each of these styles of cloaks would stack up when used as off hand weapons

[@VictorianTimeTraveler]

I thought the same thing

[@AA-vr8ve]

Ah! My friend likes fencing with epees and cloaks.

[@hmdragon1638]

well i mean with how easy the ruana cloak came off i imagine it would work great as you could quickly get it around your hand for various techniques

[@crownlexicon5225]

@@hmdragon1638 my thoughts exactly.

[@ragnkja]

Try it!

[@Sk0lzky]

9:40 that's fairly common among hikers and service members (both in case of rainproof ponchos and thick, full sized cloaks. The funny thing is - the ones used by ex-pact armies usually do have buttoned holes for arms (with overfolds that seal the whole thing preventing rain and wind from leaking inside), it's just faster and more comfortable (also better for keeping your arms warm) to sling the whole thing over your shoulders without taking the backpack off.

[@craftalchemy8621]

I wore my full cloak when I traveled, particularly through the airport, and I also did this all the time. It 'looks stupid', but it worked... and my legs were warm.

[@OutlandStation]

I was thinking about the East German ponchos specifically when the armhole/slit issue was brought up.

[@nowamajormotionpictureeven3797]

Putting your clock over your back pack also provides better ventilation. As a Canadian, I have to say that sweaty backs from a back pack are a thing even in -30 Celsius.

[@TheCompleteMental]

My issue is that it doesnt have that all-encompassing look you see in a lot of artwork, but we *do* need more cloak diversity.

[@ragnkja]

For real people, versatile garments are better.

[@KatanaDen]

Nice pfp!

[@TheCompleteMental]

All encompassing cloaks can better keep out the weather, and in combat they reportedly hide the movements of the wearer, including footwork. This would also be better for quickly taking off to use as a tool in a swordfight.

[@pentacosttb2565]

Got sent your way by Shad. Really good and well thought out video! Subscribed, and looking forward to more 👍

[@erinkarp6317]

Decided to watch this vid instead of the Shad one due to audio quality. I am not disappointed! Definite subscribe

[@DrawerOfTheFallen]

Honestly, I was quite surprised when you showed the Ruana Cloak in your summary. I actually bought some of those years ago as "ponchos", though I myself like to refer to them as "fashionably accepted fluffy blankets". I prefered them over jackets during spring and autumn. Securing it with a waistband or belt caught more weird looks and attention than I could handle that time, wearing something else than the usual boring jacket made me stand out enough already. But so damn comfy, and between lessons I simply folded it to be the perfect pillow. Or use it as blanket. Or both... I was still going to school back then and could simply wear my backpack on top and even use it to secure it to my torso. I am also someone to get too warm very quickly, which wasn't an issue since then I'd just pull the front pieces crossing my chest out from under my backpack straps (that got me two flat layers of cloak covering my entire chest to half my upper legs) and stuffed them under their own sides' strap or threw them back over my shoulders or, if I wanted my arms covered, stuffed them in the narrow space between my back and backpack. Fashionably accepted blankets aka. Ruana cloaks and backpacks are friends. Thanks for informing me they are Medieval and Fantasy approved aswell. Much apprechiated ♥

[@nibilissilibin9141]

When I purchased my mantle cloak, it had long ties and I was told to cross the ties across my chest going below the opposite shoulder or directly around and behind the adjacent shoulder and to be tied behind my back. To add a more comfortable and secure option without choking potential, of course with other issues you've established.

[@rogerallen2685]

Found you through Shadiversity. Love your channel and have subscribed. Keep the videos and content coming. It’s very useful in my own adventures into costuming and props.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I'm glad I'm able to help

[@JustinLaw123]

Shad recommended you and I am pleased with this video. Good to see more historical enthusiast content creators talking about cloaks. Another recent one I saw was from Fandabi Dozi on The Great Kilt. Keeping in touch between yourselves as content creators and recommending each other is a great thing to spread the word about more topics.

[@DongusKong]

The blanket slit cloak is a fantastic idea, and I'll be making one. Thank you! I do recommend reinforcing the seams with stitching, and a rondel of wool at the end, to prevent tear out and splitting

[@zompired2998]

This is such a great video!! I love how passionately you advocate all the advantages of the ruana cloak. You're right, the drapage is absolutely on point.

[@BritishTeaLover]

With the Brocksten cloak and how to cut it, I would have thought the circular bit is the easiest part. Weight down the edges, drive a pin through the centre (can find by folding the square fabric in half each way), then use a string around the pin with a piece of chalk/charcoal on the other end to draw a fairly accurate circle. Loved the video, I learned a lot about types of cloak I didn't even know existed!

[@craftalchemy8621]

The circle bit is the easiest part, that is exactly how you'd mark it.

[@devanpretorius451]

Great channel, glad shad recommended it! I'm definately trying those last 2 cloaks

[@AugustTheStag]

I just finished making my own Ruana Cloak! I love it! I bought a sheet of felted wool at a nearby fabric store and used that, it's so soft. Thank you very much for the inspiration!

[@rileyernst9086]

Its worth mentioning that the military orders such as the Hospitallar and Templar wore their mantles as essentially part of their uniform. Historically they kept did a lot of work travelling around making sure the roads were safe for pilgrims etc. They'd always have been almost always mounted though.

[@josephmcginley2427]

Thank you for your tutorial, I will put this into practice. I have until just late discovered your channel, and find it quite entertaining and educational. I believe you to be a talented young man and wish you all the best in your endeavors.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you!

[@magharibo]

I'm just started with getting my first costume , and I'm glad the Internet brought me to your video . You convinced me. Thank you

[@jumooglie6119]

i was looking EXACTLY for this content, thank you so much for making a video about this !!

[@tsandman]

I got a woolen half-circle cloak from Chrononaut Mercantile a few years ago... It was my daily "coat" during spring & fall, as well as helping against wind & snow in winter. served as a pillow as well as a heavy blanket. Not using it for a while now though (still working from home) .

[@annbrookens945]

Cool rundown of all these styles of cloaks! I (female) made a contemporary cloak when I was in college and wore it for several years running. It was ankle length with a 4 inch center overlap and arm slits. I loved it but I wasn't running through the woods in it or trying to cart around a backpack, either.

[@l33tster]

Man I'm so bloody happy I found your channel ahaha. Didn't come from chad but this was immensely useful and I really look forward to watching what else you've made. Thanks for being awesome and explaining your passion so well. The format of your videos is fantastic too, it's really easy to keep focused and attentive

[@The_Brink]

Another awesome video! You definitely sold me on the ruana cloak. Thanks!

[@Kaotiqua]

I've owned, worn, and loved variants of what you're calling the Ruana cloak for a quarter of a century, though I never really considered them "cloaks". My term for them was always "mantel". And you've shown me several uses I'd never considered! I commented on an earlier vid that my go-to, cloakwise, has long been the full-circle, which would probably be closest to your Bocksten, although I've always worn it front-facing, with attached hood, and I built mine out of an enormous canvas-velvet theater curtain, so the geometry was a lot simpler. With your recommendations, I think I'll have to reconsider that. I notice you avoided great kilts, which, if you've never worn, I highly recommend, for both warmth and versatility, as well as all-around practicality. A traditional great kilt is a cloak, a tunic, a blanket, a tent, a towel, a shoulder-bag, and on particularly well-oiled evenings, a true companion when all others have abandoned you to the night.

[@Kavriel]

I want to make a Ruana cloak now. They do look super comfy and practical, and surprisingly cool too.

[@theMindwalker]

I'm sold on it. Brilliant video man. Shared knowledge is one of the greatest gifts people can offer to each other and you've definitely accomplished that.

[@skeeverskeeyo7331]

This was just what i needed. I've had a lot of function issues with my mantel cloak (even though i love it). And the fact that that the Ruana cloak is so easy to make is a huge plus. I will definitely try.

[@SDSalyer]

Great video, very informative. I would have liked to hear a bit about materials / fabrics that are ideal for cloaks (for looks and/or functionality). Otherwise, superb!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Noted! Thank you!

[@voltekthecyborg7898]

Cloaks also serve as makeshift armor by wrapping it around your arm. I can also see some cloaks providing some protection against cuts when worn normally

[@maegn]

Accidentally stumbled on this channel while looking for scrapbooking supplies. Now I’m subbed and have to get myself a Ruana. Thanks Mr. Anachronism! 😻

[@OceanKeltoi]

This was an excellent breakdown. Thanks so much. Investing in a few of these I think.

[@ClashBluelight]

This was actually great. These also seem like great projects for a beginner seamstress.

[@starswater]

I DEFINITELY want to try this! Especially because of your fictional character endorsement, I'm definitely a fan haha

[@overzealouscrusades]

definitely taking queues from this video for my fantasy book. first video and you've already gained my subscription! keep up the spectacular work!

[@travisc2127]

Great vid man. Love the content

[@Wintermute909]

A double layered cloak would solve many problems. Take a long cloak with slots for arms, then layer a short cloak that is arm length over the top. Your front is fully covered and your arms get full protection, and full movement.

[@MWA35]

This is called an Inverness Cape, quite popular in the Victorian period. Basil Rathbone wore one in a lot of his Sherlock Holmes movies

[@sfriedrice4445]

Shad was right, this is amazing!!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you!

[@ForbiddenChocolate]

This was very interesting and informative, thank you! I found Shad researching for a fantasy book I'm writing with my son and, as you're aware by now, he recommended this video as well as your other content. I'm looking forward to seeing what other helpful things I can learn here as your channel grows. As usual, Shad was spot on!

[@Ashortpenguin]

Great quality and solid arguments, keep it up!

[@deanmaynard8256]

There were indeed medieval adventurers - they would travel great distances living off the land, sleeping where they could and generally living a life of drinking, fighting, gambling etc... Today we would call them mercenaries... While some were seen very much as killers for hire (murder hobos) others became famous, rich and some died with honour, fame , respect, titles and property at quite a decent age. They were basically land pirates! They even existed in large numbers at times... They went by many names, Bascot, Routier, Freelance, Brigand, Freebooter etc... Some are well known to History, from John Hawkwood, El Cid and so on...

[@Great_Olaf5]

Well, prepare for a flood of views, Shad just gave you a shoutout. And you have earned a sub from me just for referencing Ranger's Apprentice.

[@LivingAnachronism]

I'm glad there's others who appreciate that series! Welcome!

[@ajrobbins368]

That series is fantastic! I bought all the books so I can reread them from time to time.

[@Great_Olaf5]

@@ajrobbins368 I need to get a few more, I think the last one I got is Erak's Ransom, and most of the ones I read are on my parents' kindle account, which I'm coming up on losing access to. Unless there's a way of transferring those over...

[@ajrobbins368]

@@Great_Olaf5 I bought paperback copies to save money and to easily share them with friends & family. Used can be an even more affordable option. When I can, I prefer to buy used hardcover books (in good condition) because they survive better, and cost similar to new paperback copies.

[@Great_Olaf5]

@@ajrobbins368 Yeah, but I expect to be moving around a lot in the next few years after college, so digital copies are far more practical, the less I have to lug around from one home to the next, the better.

[@Splicer02]

I literally used a big wool blanket and some blue knit fabric I had spare to make two of these before the video was even finished, this is amazing :D

[@endlessly4everafter]

this is actually really good reference for writing! You bring up some points I have never thought about! Great video! Also love how you showed picture references!

[@poopsiexpants]

Yep. Cloaks are happening. This has to be done

[@Treespiritofficial]

send by shadiversity

[@trevorspeer2490]

Sold. Thanks for the in depth video. I've been looking for more info on ruana cloaks.

[@elessarsgirl4883]

I love the Ruana cloak. I have a small dressy one and some others, but I didn't know what they were called. Now I want to make a Gandalf-sized one, because I'm old and cold and just hang out in my jammies at the computer. Love your channel! Subscribed yesterday when I saw the one on swords.

[@star-sn3tt]

Greetings from shadiversity

[@RolfHartmann]

Thumbs up if Shadiversity sent you here.

[@timhornbeck2065]

Love your channel! Getting ready to give the Ruana a go!

[@josephstone4842]

This is really high quality. I appreciate how you also say how they’re made. It makes me want to make a cloak.

[@willywantoknow2563]

Thanks for this video! Answered many questions and ideas i had.

[@joearjona487]

Love it. Another super interesting video. Thank you!

[@lesofkia2363]

your videos (which i have been binge watching since finding your channel a few days ago) actually inspired me to make my own clothes!! i started watching bcs i couldn't decide what to buy, but now i've invested tons of hours into research for fabric and cut styles, and it's much less expensive!!

[@mhkuntug]

This video is a great guide. You really convinced me. I decided to just saw a hood to the last one, your favorite one.

[@sophiemagill]

Wonderful Channel - I discovered your channel when I searched for the "best medieval cloak for a ranger". After enjoying the video, I subscribed and then binge watched for hours. I greatly appreciate your knowledge, your approach, speaking and demonstration abilities. Thank you.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank YOU!

[@ladysaranoir]

The youtube algorithm blessed me with this and I came to realize I actually have what is basically a (modernized) Ruana cloak in my possession. I'll definitely be checking out more of your vids.

[@kentario1610]

This is HIGHLY educational and inspirational as well, very much appreciated! I will continue my quest for cloaks for winged people near-permanently on the move, and who cover wings for safety reasons outside of flying, but for my non-winged guy this'll be magnificent! I may use some linen to try this out, or wait until restrictions ease up to finally get some wool and try this! Thank you again, love the passion!

[@stankybee]

Just found your channel and I absolutely love your style! Cheers!

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you!

[@TheOnyxFoxReturns]

This was so informative. I learned so much now on cloaks. I never noticed that before with Legolas and Gandalf. Hope you keep content like this coming. Subbed!

[@eaglescott17]

Shad sent me as well, and I've loved the videos of yours that I have seen, and I totally agree with your idea of the best cloak. I'm also really wanting to make an old time style study like you went over in one of your previous videos.

[@kelleygreene4434]

So I just finished making my new ruana cloak. So glad I tripped over this video. Thanks

[@Starolfr]

I found you in my recommended watch list and was pleased to see your content topics, your excellent and informative video, *and* your crossover with the most esteemed, Shad. I have subbed, dear sage, and will remain at this refuge of knowledge with delight, as well. ; )

[@LivingAnachronism]

Welcome and thank you, Mike!

[@Jeikobu]

I have learned so much about cloaks. I have always liked how they looked, but seeing the Ruana cloak, it looks so good! Thank you for educating us on how amazing cloaks are.

[@jarydf]

Outstanding video. Thanks. Well presented.

[@TheShadowLight13]

My uncle showed me your channel and just from watching two minutes with him I was hooked, you are highly knowledgeable about medieval dress and thus impressed me. I have subscribed to your channel and I will also recommend you to anyone else who is into renaissance festivals.

[@LivingAnachronism]

Thank you most kindly!

[@corywaugh8689]

Just WOW, thank you for helping me decide on a cloak. I have been considering adding one to my fun garb and couldn't decide on which style I really wanted. Between you and what I saw on Skill Tree, the blanket cloak is my clear winner. Thank you thank you for helping me decide

[@BluDrgn426]

I appreciate this video! This is much needed information. Now I really want to get a Ruana Cloak!

[@McBernes]

I am so glad I found your channel! I love the idea of wearing a cloak, and I'm handy with needle and thread (sewing machines on the other hand are mechanical demons that cause me a lot of frustration lol) but with SO many types I was getting bogged down with figuring out the one that would be right for me. Your presentation helped me out a lot! And yes, if it's good enough for Gandalf it's good enough for me!

[@bkanderson2659]

Shad sent me here, and this video did not disappoint! Great stuff. Wish I had seen this video before making my cloak a few years ago. Keep up the good work!

[@taylorbband]

Alright, this video sold me! Been a die hard mantle cloak fan and quite stubborn about it. Looks like I’ll be heading to the surplus to see what wools I can find lol great video!