Your first LARP event is coming up and you need a costume that works. Not just one that looks good in a photo, but one you can run, fight, eat and sleep in for a whole weekend. A cloak or cape is usually the first real costume piece new players buy, because it turns everyday clothes into "in character" in seconds. This beginner's LARP cloak guide covers which style to pick, what to look for, how to wear it safely during combat and how to keep it in good shape.
Why a cloak is the best first LARP purchase
Most LARP groups ask for a costume that hides obviously modern clothing. A full costume can take months to build, but a cloak covers a lot of ground immediately:
- It hides modern jackets, logos and zips underneath.
- It works for almost every fantasy character: ranger, mage, rogue, priest, noble, traveler.
- It keeps you warm at night camps and in drizzle.
- It stays useful as your costume grows; you will still wear it when you have full armor.
Pair a cloak with plain dark trousers, a loose shirt or tunic, a belt and boots, and you are ready for most beginner events.
Step 1: Know your character (even roughly)
You do not need a full backstory. A simple archetype is enough to choose a color and style:
- Ranger, scout or archer: green or brown, hood, practical length.
- Fighter, mercenary or knight: a shoulder cape that keeps your weapon arm free, in black, navy or a house color.
- Mage, priest or mystic: a long hooded cloak in black, gray or a rich color.
- Noble or merchant: burgundy or black with trim, fur-look details or an ornate clasp.
- Dark or undead characters: black, full length, deep hood.
Check your group's setting guide too. Some games assign colors to factions or nations, and it is much easier to match before you buy.
Step 2: Choose between a cloak and a cape
This is the biggest decision for a LARPer, because it affects movement in combat.
Full hooded cloak
Best for non-combat or light-combat roles, night scenes, cold weather and characters who rely on presence. A full cloak around 55 in long, like the Cotton-Linen Hooded Medieval Cloak or the Green Hooded Medieval Cloak, gives a classic silhouette and covers your whole outfit.
Half shoulder cape
Best for fighters. It drapes over one shoulder and leaves your sword or shield arm free. Our half shoulder capes weigh about 7.5 oz (213 g), are one size (fits S to L) and tie across the body with the included strings, so they stay in place when you move.
Still undecided? Read our full comparison: Hooded Cloak vs Shoulder Cape.
Step 3: What to look for in a LARP cloak
Fabric
Outdoor LARP means grass, mud, rain, campfires and long days. Breathable linen and cotton-linen blends are comfortable for daytime and look naturally rustic. Heavier-draping faux wool looks warmer and more formal, which suits nobles and night scenes. Light polyester capes are easy to wash and pack.
Whatever the fabric, keep your cloak away from open flames and campfires. Loose fabric and fire do not mix.
Length
For LARP, slightly shorter is often better than longer. A hem that clears the ground will not catch on roots, steps or your own feet when you run. If you are under about 5'5", consider a mid-length cloak or a cape. Our size guide lists every length in inches and cm.
Hood
A good hood should be roomy enough to wear over your hair and stay up when you turn your head. If you wear a helmet in combat, you will probably wear the hood down, or choose a cape without a hood.
Closure
Closures matter more in LARP than anywhere else, because a cloak can be grabbed or caught. Tab-and-ring clasps tied with a cord, like those on our linen and cotton-linen cloaks, are simple and adjustable. A ribbon tie is comfortable and easy to undo quickly. For safety, avoid anything that cannot be released fast.
Step 4: Wearing a cloak safely in combat
Always follow your game's safety rules first. Some general tips that new players find useful:
- Sweep it back. Before a fight, throw the front of the cloak back over your shoulders so your arms are free.
- Keep the neck closure loose. A cloak should never pull tightly at your throat if someone steps on it or it catches on something.
- Use a shoulder cape for heavy combat roles. It gives the look without the length.
- Watch your hem on stairs and uneven ground. Lift the front slightly when climbing.
Step 5: Build the rest of the outfit around it
Once you have your cloak, a beginner LARP costume needs only a few more items:
- A loose shirt or tunic in a natural color (cream, brown, gray, black)
- Plain dark trousers or a long skirt
- A wide belt for a pouch, a mug and your foam weapon
- Comfortable boots you can walk in all day
- A pouch for your phone, ID and character sheet
Then upgrade one piece at a time: a gambeson or bodice, bracers, a better belt, a hat or circlet. The cloak keeps the whole thing looking finished while you build.
Ideas for beginner LARP characters
The woodland ranger
Moss green hooded cloak, brown tunic, leather-look belt and a bow prop. The Green Hooded Medieval Cloak in cotton and linen is a natural fit.
The sellsword
Black tunic, belt and foam sword, with the Black Half Shoulder Cape over the shoulder opposite your sword arm.
The northern noble
Dark layers and the Black Medieval Cloak with Fur-Style Collar, about 55 in long with a deep hood, for a commanding entrance at the feast.
The wandering pilgrim
Cream shirt, rope belt, a staff and the Brown Linen Hooded Medieval Cloak.
The guard captain
Dark tunic, belt and the Navy Blue Half Shoulder Cape with cream woven trim.
Caring for your LARP cloak
- Let mud dry, then brush it off before washing.
- Follow the care label. As a general guide: gentle cold wash or hand wash, no tumble drying, hang to dry.
- Linen creases naturally; for a LARP look, that is a feature, not a flaw.
- Store it dry and folded or hung, never damp in a bag after an event.
Beginner questions
Do I need an expensive cloak for my first LARP?
No. You need one that fits, lets you move and suits your character. You can always upgrade later.
Is a cloak too hot for summer LARP?
A heavy one can be. Choose linen or cotton-linen, or a light shoulder cape, for summer events.
Can I use the same cloak for a Renaissance faire?
Yes. Most LARP cloaks work perfectly at faires and cosplay events. See What to Wear to a Renaissance Faire for outfit ideas.
Get your first LARP cloak
Browse our LARP cloaks and capes. Every order ships free worldwide and arrives in 1–2 weeks (about 7–14 business days), so order a couple of weeks before your event. There are no hidden fees: duties and taxes are included in the price, and you have 14 days from delivery to return. Use the code PINTEREST15 for 15% off at checkout. Unsure about length or fit? Ask us before you order.