Hauberk

A hauberk is a full length coat made of maille usually worn over a gambeson (a padded jacket). A hauberk usually extended to the knee and was split in the front and back to the crotch -- allowing the wearer to ride a horse. The sleeves could extend to the elbow or wrist.

This type of armour was popular in the 11th century and the early part of the 12th century.

A shorter maille shirt which extended only to the waist was called a byrnie.

See also:

• maille
• armour