Originally, a cilice was a goat-hair fabric vest, designed to be uncomfortable, used by the Romans. It became a symbol of repentance in early Christianity. The term evolved and came to include chain-like devices worn beneath clothes to cause pain. Their use was prevalent throughout the Middle Ages and continues in some religious groups today.
Our cilice comes with a length of paracord, to allow you to tighten it to your required pressure. The paracord we supply is probably longer than you’ll need, but we try to cater for all sizes. To shorten it, simply cut and then use something like a lighter to melt the ends of the cord so they don’t fray.
The “chain” for the cilice is approximatelt 320 mm long.
IMPORTANT: This cilice should not be used to support limbs for partial suspensions, as there is no strength imparted by the rope. For spiky partial suspensions, please see our Spiky Curves.
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