Viking Shop
Buying Viking gear is about more than just putting together a costume – it’s about bringing to life the way of life of the Nordic warriors, traders and explorers of the early Middle Ages. In the Vehi Mercatus Viking Shop, you’ll find Viking clothing, weapons, jewellery and camp equipment that are equally suitable for re-enactment, LARP and medieval markets.
The Vikings: Who they were and what their equipment consists of
The Viking Age spanned from around 793 to 1066 AD and originated in Scandinavia – in what are now Norway, Denmark and Sweden. The Northmen were not a homogeneous ethnic group with a rigid culture, but a complex network of regional communities with different traditions, trade routes and ways of life. They were warriors, but equally traders, settlers and daring explorers who opened up routes from North America to Constantinople.
Their equipment was strictly functional: wool for clothing that withstood the cold and damp; iron for weapons and tools; leather for bags, belts and shoes; horn for drinking vessels and combs. Anyone wishing to present an authentic image – whether at a medieval market or in a re-enactment group – should start with the choice of materials. Historically documented cuts and raw materials form the basis of a credible portrayal, not the most eye-catching accessory.
Putting together a Viking outfit: Beginner to advanced re-enactment
For your first visit to a medieval market or a LARP event, a simple combination will suffice: a Viking tunic, plain trousers, a leather belt and sturdy shoes. This basic kit is affordable and covers the essentials without compromising on material quality or historical accuracy.
Those who regularly attend markets can supplement their basic kit with woollen garments, initial pieces of jewellery such as a brooch or a bangle, a leather pouch on the belt and a drinking horn. The overall look is more cohesive when the individual items are coordinated – colours, materials and period should complement one another.
For historically accurate portrayals in re-enactment groups, strict material requirements often apply: exclusively natural fibres (wool, linen), historically documented cuts, no visible synthetics. Added to this are protective gear such as a gambeson or chainmail, a full set of jewellery and a weapon befitting one’s status. In this segment, the quality of workmanship and adherence to historical materials make all the difference.
Viking clothing: from the tunic to the cloak
The core of Viking attire consists of a tunic and trousers for men, and for women a surcoat combined with a slip (hangerock). The basic outfit is complemented by a woollen cloak fastened with a brooch – an indispensable detail for an authentic appearance.
Historically documented materials are wool and linen. For serious re-enactment, natural fibres are not an option but a requirement – synthetic fabrics not only feel wrong, they also drape differently under artificial light compared to natural fibres. Anyone opting for Viking clothing for men or Viking clothing for women should pay attention to the fabric details in the product description.
Historical colour schemes were based on plant dyes: earth tones such as ochre and brown, but also deep blue from woad, shades of green from birch leaves and shades of red from madder. Garish neon colours or pure white linen without any patina quickly look out of place at markets and in re-enactment groups. Beginners can start with simpler garments and gradually expand their outfit.
Viking jewellery: brooches, rings, amulets and beard ornaments
Brooches & Garment Adornments
Brooches served primarily to fasten cloaks and garments. Whether ring brooches, disc brooches or animal-style brooches, they were both jewellery and practical tools. A Viking brooch is one of the first accessories to enhance any outfit.
Arm and neck rings
Bracelets and necklaces made of bronze or silver were far more than mere decoration to the Vikings – they served as portable wealth and were used as a means of payment. Typical motifs: interlaced patterns, animal motifs, geometric designs. Viking bracelets and Viking necklaces are at the heart of any authentic ensemble.
Amulets & beard jewellery
Thor’s hammer (Mjölnir), the Valknut and runes are among the best-known symbols of Norse mythology. As pendants made of bronze or silver, they are well-documented historically. Beard beads and hair ornaments are period-appropriate details that complete a Viking outfit.
Viking camp equipment: drinking horns, bags and kitchen utensils
A credible military camp or an authentic market stall thrives on the details beyond the clothing. Viking drinking horns and horn mugs for mead and beer are among the best-known camp items – and are indispensable at any medieval festival. Genuine horns develop a unique patina over time and are significantly more durable than decorative versions made from synthetic materials.
Leather bags and pouches on the belt are well-documented historically: the Northmen carried their belongings in small leather pouches or flat belt bags. Viking bags thus still fulfil their original purpose today – practical and authentic at the same time.
For the cooking area, wooden plates and bowls, spoons and simple cutlery form the basic kit. Iron cauldrons and pans, set on a tripod over the fire, complete the picture. Furs and blankets made of real wool or animal hide serve as bedding, seating and protection against the cold all at once – they are a simple yet effective way to give a camp the right atmosphere.
Viking weapons and armour: axe, sword, helmet and shield
- Axe: The Vikings’ most common weapon – simple to make, effective in use; Viking axes as replicas for exhibition fighting and camps
- Sword: A status symbol and object of prestige – only wealthy warriors carried a sword; Viking swords in various designs
- Sax & knife: Short sword or large knife, carried by almost everyone – Viking sax as an all-purpose weapon and status symbol
- Spear: The standard weapon of the common warrior – inexpensive, long-range, historically dominant
- Round shield: wooden shield with iron boss – Viking wooden shields are historically accurate and suitable for re-enactment
- Helmet: The spiked helmet is historically documented – horned helmets are a modern myth with no archaeological evidence. For Viking helmets, the rule is: rivets, nose guard, no horns
- Chainmail: Protection for experienced fighters – elaborate and heavy; often mandatory for re-enactment groups
- Decoration vs. re-enactment combat: Not every replica is suitable for combat – check product descriptions for suitability for re-enactment combat or leisure use
Whether you’re visiting a medieval market for the first time or want to take your re-enactment outfit to the next level – at Vehi Mercatus’ Viking Shop, you’ll find everything you need for a convincing outfit. Browse through the range and put together your Viking outfit piece by piece.