For maximized protection, warriors wore a thick coat made of cloth (quilted fabric) called a gambeson and then wore chainmail on top. This combination not only protected against slashes and cuts from weapons but also increased the blunt attack protection. Some chainmail suits have a piece attached that is worn like a hood, this is called a coif. This chainmail hood is worn on top of a arming cap (a cap that is made of a quilted fabric) and then a helmet is worn on top. A belt is worn at the waist when wearing chainmail armour so the weight of the armour won’t hang down on the shoulders of the wearer.
