Other medieval accessories
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
Medieval accessories that fall outside the main categories are often the details that really bring an outfit or camp kit to life — from hand-forged key rings and woollen leg wraps to historically accurate riding spurs. This category brings together precisely those small items that cannot be pigeonholed into any single category, but which make the difference between ‘functional’ and ‘authentic’ in re-enactment, at medieval markets and in LARP.
What counts as a medieval accessory — and why are small items so crucial?
In the Middle Ages, an accessory was rarely mere decoration. Anyone wearing a key ring on their belt demonstrated access and responsibility. Anyone carrying a writing implement signalled education. Everyday items were worn visibly on the body — fastened to a belt, stowed in belt pouches or displayed openly. This functional logic fundamentally distinguishes medieval accessories from modern jewellery or accessories.
For re-enactment, LARP and visits to medieval markets, this means: anyone wishing to create a historically accurate portrayal cannot do without such small items. A carefully wrapped calf wrap, a hand-forged key on a belt or a leather-bound notebook transform a costume into a historical representation. The range of this category extends from woollen calf wraps and riding spurs to leather notebooks and turned wooden containers, right through to hand-forged everyday objects made of carbon steel and brass spurs modelled on historical examples.
Calf wraps: wool, wrapping technique and comfort
Calf wraps are among the oldest and most widespread garments of the Early Middle Ages and the Viking Age. They were wrapped around the legs, protecting against dirt and cold whilst marching, stabilising the calf during long marches and keeping trousers in place. Archaeological finds attest to their use across Northern Europe — from Anglo-Saxon England to Scandinavia.
The material makes all the difference: wool keeps you warm even when damp, regulates temperature and remains odourless for hours — properties that modern synthetic fibres struggle to match. The Viking leg wraps in this category are each 2 × 3.8 m long, making them long enough for proper wrapping from the ankle to just below the knee.
The range comprises two distinct lines: the plain Aki calf wraps are available in numerous colours — from black and grey through to brown, green and red, right up to autumn green and yellow. They are suitable for virtually all early medieval and Viking-era reenactments and can be easily combined with tunics and trousers. The patterned Asgar calf wraps in a herringbone pattern create a deliberate visual accent and are particularly suited to more elaborate garments — available, for example, in black-grey, olive-grey and burgundy-grey.
Riding spurs, belt hangers and forged fittings: historically accurate details
Riding spurs
In the Middle Ages, riding spurs were far more than just a tool — they were regarded as a status symbol of the knight and were ceremoniously bestowed during the sword-bearing ceremony. The Norman spurs of the 12th–13th centuries differ significantly in shape and construction from the Churburg spurs of the 14th–15th centuries, which are inspired by the preserved examples in the armoury at Churburg in South Tyrol. Both variants are made from cast brass and adhere to the traditional historical design standards.
Belt hangers
In the Late Middle Ages, belt hangers were used to attach everyday items such as knives, keys or small pouches directly to the belt — a practical solution in an era without trouser pockets. The belt hangers in this category are based on preserved originals from the 14th and 15th centuries and fit belts at least 20 mm wide. As a detail on a medieval or Viking belt, they add an authentic touch.
Hand-forged items
Hand-forged everyday items such as key rings and corkscrews made from carbon steel are more than just decoration in this category: they are functional, robust and, with their irregular surface, reveal the craftsmanship behind their creation. A three-piece key ring on a forged ring looks just as impressive on a belt as it does at a blacksmith’s market.
Notebooks and songbooks, containers and writing implements: everyday objects of the Middle Ages
Writing and recording were not a matter of course in the Middle Ages — for a long time, they remained the preserve of clerics, scholars and merchants. The symbolic value of writing implements and books was correspondingly high. Anyone carrying a songbook at a medieval market or in LARP conveys this subtext.
The hand-bound leather books in this category feature handmade paper and are available in various designs — with a knotted pattern embossing in dark brown or simply in natural brown. Both versions are suitable as songbooks for bards, notebooks for character portrayals in LARP, or as atmospheric props for a market stall. The pages are blank and can therefore be used as required.
Turned wooden containers such as needle and powder boxes made from dark wood are typical everyday objects of the Renaissance and the late Middle Ages. They were used to keep sewing needles, spices, medicinal herbs or powders dry and within easy reach. In a military camp or at a market stall, such details make the difference between an empty stall and a lively scene.
Who are these accessories suitable for — re-enactment, military camps or medieval markets?
For historically accurate re-enactments, Norman or Churburg-style riding spurs, late medieval belt hangers and hand-forged carbon steel items are particularly suitable. These items are based on traditional originals and meet the standards of a recognisably historical re-enactment. Wool leg wraps complete the early medieval or Viking-era outfit and are widely used in the scene.
In the military camp and at the medieval market, functionality and atmosphere are equally important. Leather books as songbooks, turned wooden containers for spices or herbs, hand-forged corkscrews for the evening gathering around the campfire — all of this contributes to the coherence of the overall picture. Wool leg wraps are not only visually appropriate but also comfortable to wear on long market days.
In LARP and cosplay, there is greater creative freedom. Alongside historically inspired items, this category also includes potion vials, arm warmers and leather accessories that can be used for character portrayals beyond specific historical periods. Prices start at around 10 euros, so even newcomers to the scene can add authentic details without breaking the bank.
Price guide: What can you get for which budget?
Hand-bound leather notebooks, turned wooden containers (needle and powder boxes) and plain-coloured woolen leg wraps from the Aki range start at around 10 euros. The same applies to this price segment: the materials are high-quality and historically accurate — there is no noticeable drop in quality compared to the mid-range.
Hand-forged carbon steel key rings, late medieval belt pendants and patterned herringbone wool leg wraps (Asgar range) fall into this category. Those willing to invest a little more will receive items that clearly demonstrate greater craftsmanship and offer more distinctive designs.
Cast brass riding spurs based on Norman or Churburg designs start at just under €39. More elaborate leather items and specialised forged pieces can reach up to €100. These items are intended for serious re-enactors who value historically accurate detail.
Good to know: Care and durability of medieval small items
Medieval accessories made from natural materials are durable — provided they are cared for properly. A few simple steps are enough to keep most items in good condition for many seasons.
- Rub leather items regularly with a suitable leather grease to prevent drying out and cracking — especially after rain or heavy use.
- Wool leg wraps are best washed by hand or on a gentle cycle at a maximum of 30°C and left to dry flat so that they retain their shape.
- Lightly oil carbon steel forged parts after use — carbon steel is more robust than stainless steel, but more prone to rusting in damp conditions.
- Brass items such as riding spurs develop a natural patina over time. This is not a fault, but a sign of authenticity — if you like it, leave it as it is.
- Store wooden items in a dry place and treat them occasionally with a little linseed oil to keep the wood supple and prevent cracking.
Materials at a glance: leather, wool, brass and wood
| Material | Suitability | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Leather | Historical | Notebooks, belt loops, containers |
| Wool (74%) | Historical | Calf wraps, leg wraps |
| Wool/polyester blend | LARP | Calf wraps with enhanced dimensional stability |
| Brass (cast) | Historical | Riding spurs, fittings |
| Carbon steel (forged) | Historical | Key rings, corkscrews |
| Wood (turned) | Historical | Needle cases, powder flasks, containers |
A note for buyers with a strong preference for natural fibres: some calf wraps contain polyester or polyamide. The product descriptions specify the exact material composition — those who wish to purchase exclusively wool will find the corresponding variants under the Aki line in the Viking Calf Wraps category.
Whether you’re completing your Viking outfit with authentic woollen calf wraps, bringing your camp to life with hand-forged everyday items, or adding the finishing touches to your character as a LARP player — browse through the range and discover just the detail your next appearance has been missing.
Frequently asked questions
In the Middle Ages, accessories were worn primarily for practical purposes, not purely for decoration. These included belt pendants for knives and keys, woolen leg wraps to protect the legs, writing implements for clergy and merchants, and riding spurs as a status symbol for knights. All these items were worn visibly on the body — often attached directly to the belt.
Calf wraps are wound in a spiral from the ankle upwards to just below the knee, with each layer slightly overlapping the previous one. The recommended length of 3.8 m per calf wrap is sufficient for a neat wrap. The end is usually tucked into the last layer or secured with a small strap. If you are wrapping for the first time, it is best to practise before using them at the market or in LARP.
Hand-bound leather books, turned wooden containers, hand-forged everyday objects and woolen calf wraps are particularly popular at medieval market stalls. These small items are inexpensive (from around 10 euros), easy to transport and make for a delight both as a souvenir and as a functional prop for your next visit.
Historical riding spurs, such as the Norman models from the 12th/13th centuries or the Churburg spurs from the 14th/15th centuries, were originally used for riding, but today they are ideal as authentic costume details for re-enactment and LARP. They are attached to the heels of the shoes and effectively enhance a knightly or noble portrayal.
For beginners, we recommend hand-bound leather notebooks (from approx. €11), plain-coloured woollen leg wraps (from approx. €17) and turned wooden containers (from approx. €10). These items are affordable, versatile and can be used straight away with your outfit or in the camp — without requiring in-depth knowledge of historical accuracy.