Larp trousers and fantastic medieval trousers
Whether at a medieval market, a LARP convention or a reenactment camp: the right trousers are the foundation of any historical costume. Here you’ll find over 170 styles – from simple market trousers to laced knee-length trousers – in cotton, linen and other natural fibres. Prices range from around €24 to €47, so both beginners and experienced re-enactors will find what they’re looking for.
What styles are available for LARP and medieval trousers?
Straight cut with drawstring
Models such as the Hagen or Vincent trousers feature a simple straight cut with a drawstring at the waistband. This makes them easy to put on, versatile and ideal for a first visit to a market or relaxed LARP conventions without combat. Two side pockets are standard on many versions.
Knee-length trousers with lacing
The laced knee-length trousers end below the knee and are fastened there with lacing. They are more historically accurate and go well with High Medieval attire. Combined with calf wraps or long stockings, they create a cohesive, authentic look for markets and re-enactments.
Wide trousers with leg lacing
Wide cuts with leg lacing are typical of early medieval and Viking trousers. The generous cut allows plenty of freedom of movement, which is a real bonus, especially on long hikes through the countryside or during re-enactment battles. The lacing at the leg keeps the trousers securely in place even without a belt.
Material comparison: cotton, linen and wool
The choice of material influences not only comfort and appearance, but also the historical authenticity of your costume. Our range features exclusively natural fibres – for Vehi Mercatus’ own-brand products, the decision to avoid synthetics is a conscious choice, not a given.
| Material | Suitability | Properties |
|---|---|---|
| 100% cotton | LARP & Market | Durable, easy-care, most affordable option – the most common material in the range |
| 100% linen | Reenactment | Breathable, historically appropriate for the Early and High Middle Ages, slightly stiff when new |
| Wool | Historical | Thermoregulating, ideal for autumn and winter events, naturally moisture-regulating |
Brands in the range: What sets Leonardo Carbone, Battle Merchant and Burgschneider apart
With four brands and over 170 items, the range caters to a variety of needs. Here is a quick overview:
- Leonardo Carbone (105 items): Wide range of basics, robust everyday quality, extensive size availability from S to XXXL
- Battle Merchant (46 items): Often more geared towards re-enactment requirements, solid workmanship for intensive use
- Both brands offer excellent value for money for regular market visitors and convention attendees
- Burgschneider (14 items): Emphasis on historically inspired cuts, often made from natural fibres – ideal for performers who prioritise authenticity
- Vehi Mercatus own brand (7 items): Exclusively natural fibres, fabrics manufactured to our own specifications in weaving mills – no synthetics
- A smaller but clearly positioned range for anyone who cares about the origin of materials
Colours and sizes: What the range covers
The colour range is based on historically documented shades: natural, brown, dark brown, black and green are available for almost all models. Black and dark brown are particularly popular – they suit dark characters, villains or fantasy roles beyond the classic villager look.
Those aiming for an authentic farmer or craftsman look are better off choosing natural tones or light brown. Green is suitable for rangers, hunters or nature-loving characters in LARP. Sizes range from S to XXXL, with many styles available across the full size range – the abbreviation XXXL appears in the product names over 20 times, demonstrating the comprehensive coverage in the larger size range.
Who is it for – and what occasion determines the choice?
Anyone who occasionally visits a medieval market is well served by a simple pair of straight-cut cotton trousers. A drawstring waist, two pockets and sturdy construction are perfectly adequate for relaxed visits. Models such as the Hagen trousers, starting at around €33, are recommended here.
Anyone actively participating in cons needs trousers with greater freedom of movement. Loose fits or knee-length trousers with lacing are advantageous here. Cotton withstands intensive use well and is easy to care for – ideal for multi-day events. Pair the trousers with a LARP shirt or tabard for a complete outfit.
In reenactment, historical accuracy counts: linen or wool are the more authentic materials, and the cut and finish should correspond to the respective century. Natural-coloured cotton knee-length trousers (around €35) or woollen trousers (up to €47) meet these requirements and will stand up to critical scrutiny at the camp.
How to find the right trousers for your outfit
Trousers are the foundation – but only with the right additions do they become a complete outfit. The next step is a matching medieval shirt or a tunic worn over the trousers, which adds extra character to the outfit.
Leg wraps complete early medieval looks in particular and are a simple way to enhance the level of detail in your outfit. These go well with LARP shoes or leather medieval shoes, which significantly influence the overall impression. Don’t forget the belt either: it is both functional (holding up the trousers, carrying pouches and knives) and visually an important element of the overall composition. If you’re unsure about putting your outfit together, you can get advice by phone Mon–Fri 8am–12pm and 1pm–3pm on +49 9921 7099288.
Care tips for your medieval trousers made from natural fibres
Cotton trousers can be machine-washed at 40°C. Please note that cotton may shrink slightly on the first wash – so if in doubt, choose a size larger when purchasing. Air-drying significantly extends the fabric’s lifespan. Cotton is the easiest material to care for in our range and is ideal for garments worn regularly at conventions and markets.
Linen trousers should be washed in cold or at most lukewarm water (30°C) to prevent shrinkage. Ironing at a medium temperature smooths the fabric and gives it a neater appearance – which is particularly relevant for re-enactors. Linen becomes softer and more comfortable to wear over time with frequent washing.
Wool trousers require special care: a gentle wash cycle at 30 °C or hand washing are the safer options. Never put them in the tumble dryer – wool felts when exposed to heat and loses its shape and size. Natural wool fibres naturally regulate moisture and temperature, which is why they are comfortable to wear even during long events and need to be washed less often than cotton.
Natural fibres such as cotton, linen and wool breathe significantly better than synthetic materials. This is particularly noticeable at all-day markets, multi-day conventions or warm summer events: synthetics trap heat and moisture, whilst natural fibres wick them away. Anyone who has ever walked through an August market in a linen shirt and cotton trousers will never want to wear anything else.
With over 170 styles in various cuts, materials and colours, you’ll find the perfect trousers for every occasion here – from your first visit to a medieval market to a multi-day convention. Browse through the range and put together your outfit step by step.
Frequently asked questions
For beginners, we recommend simple straight-cut cotton trousers with a drawstring, such as the Hagen trousers from around €33. They are easy to care for, robust and available in many colours and sizes. The simple cut can be combined with almost any top and works well both at medieval markets and for LARP.
Simple medieval trousers have a straight leg and reach down to the ankles – they are the most versatile style in the range. Knee-length trousers end below the knee and are fastened there with lacing. They look more historically authentic and go particularly well with High Medieval garments, combined with calf wraps or long stockings.
Cotton can shrink slightly during the first wash – usually by half a size to one size. If you want to be on the safe side, choose a size larger when buying and wash the trousers once at 40°C before wearing them for the first time. The size usually stabilises after the first wash.
For an early medieval Viking outfit, we recommend loose-fitting trousers with leg lacing, such as those found in our Viking trousers range. Natural tones, brown or grey are historically accurate. Pair the trousers with a Viking shirt, calf wraps and flat leather shoes for a cohesive overall look.
Yes – the range runs from S to XXXL. Many styles, particularly from the Leonardo Carbone and Battle Merchant lines, are available in stock in all sizes. The size XXXL appears over 20 times in the range, demonstrating our comprehensive coverage of larger sizes. If you have any questions about choosing the right size, our telephone advisory service is here to help.