Medieval boots and Viking boots
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
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Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
-
Delivery time: 3 - 5 working days* (GB - int. shipments may differ)
- Available
- Available
- Available
- Available
- Item out of stock
- Item out of stock
Medieval boots and Viking boots are among the most important elements of a historical costume — they not only complete the outfit visually, but also determine whether a look is appropriate for the respective era. Whether sturdy lace-up boots from the Viking Age, classic leg-high boots from the late Middle Ages or high riding boots from the 15th century: in this category you’ll find leather goods that are equally suitable for medieval markets, re-enactment and LARP. The range comprises around 200 items by Leonardo Carbone and our own brand, Vehi Mercatus — in sizes 36 to 47, in brown and black, with rubber or leather soles.
Viking boots, cuffed boots and riding boots: an overview
Three main types characterise the range — and each has its historical place:
Viking boots
Low to medium shaft, simple lacing at the ankle, often welted construction. Historical basis: archaeological finds from Haithabu. Colours: natural brown or black. Suitable for men’s Viking clothing and early medieval attire.
Cuff boots
The iconic footwear of the Late Middle Ages: turned-up cuff, straps with buckles instead of lacing, medium to high shaft. Suede and nubuck leather are common materials. Available from knee-high boots to over-the-knee boots for riders.
Riding boots
High shaft, full leather construction, inspired by the historical footwear of mounted warriors of the Late Middle Ages. Over-the-knee boots with three leather straps and buckles. The highest-quality segment in the range — from approx. €209.
Viking boots: footwear of the early Middle Ages
The most important archaeological source for early medieval footwear is Haithabu — the Danish-Nordic trading centre whose leather finds provide detailed insights into the construction and shape of shoes from that period. The Viking boots in our range are based on these models: low to medium shaft, simple lacing at the ankle, no elaborate embellishments. The turned-sewn construction — in which the shoe is first sewn inside out and then turned right side out — ensures a smooth inner seam and was widespread in the early Middle Ages.
In terms of colour, you’ll stay within historically documented parameters if you opt for natural brown or black. Both variants are available in the range. We recommend pairing these with Viking tunics and medieval tunics for men, along with Viking trousers and breeches, as well as Viking calf wraps and leg wraps — a combination that is well-documented archaeologically and creates a cohesive early medieval look at markets.
Cuff boots and late medieval boots: footwear of the 14th and 15th centuries
The cuffed boot is the hallmark of late medieval footwear: the characteristic turned-up cuff at the top of the shaft, combined with two to three leather straps and buckles as fastenings, makes it unmistakable. Buckles rather than lacing became established as a typical feature from the 14th century onwards — anyone seeking a historically accurate late medieval outfit is on the right track with cuffed boots.
The shaft height varies considerably depending on the model: ankle-high to knee-high versions are suitable for foot soldiers and merchants, whilst over-the-knee boots were typical for horsemen and courtly depictions of the 15th century. In our range, you’ll find suede and nubuck leather as common upper materials — both give the boot a matt, worn look that suits historical attire better than highly polished smooth leather. The model name ‘Sigurd’ appears particularly frequently and refers to a mid-calf-length cuffed boot with a classic silhouette.
Materials and craftsmanship: what makes a good medieval boot
| Material | Suitability | Special feature |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth leather (upper) | Re-enactment | Easy to care for, highly durable, can be polished |
| Suede / Nubuck leather | Historical LARP | Matte finish, typical of late medieval boots, most common variant in the range |
| Leather sole | Reenactment | Maximum authenticity, slippery on smooth surfaces — suitable for exhibition fighting |
| Rubber sole | LARP | Non-slip on grass and cobblestones, low maintenance, practical for markets |
| Leather lining (inner material) | Reenactment LARP | Breathable, moulds to the foot, improves long-term comfort |
| Hand-dyed leather (natural brown/antique look) | Historical | Dyed in-house in Rinchnach — vibrant colour depth instead of a uniform industrial look |
Which boot for which occasion? Market, reenactment and LARP
- Leather sole for maximum authenticity
- World-class construction where historically documented
- Natural brown or black as historically documented colours
- Sturdy leather-on-leather construction for heavy-duty use
- Suitable for Viking outfits (Early Middle Ages) or knight’s armour (Late Middle Ages)
- Rubber sole as a practical choice for uneven terrain, meadows and cobblestones
- Wider range of styles — fantasy elements also available
- Cuff boots with strap-and-buckle fastening for quick on and off
- Suede versions are more durable and easier to care for than smooth leather
- Leather boots last for many market seasons with regular care
Price ranges at a glance: from entry-level to professional gear
Sturdy suede boots with rubber soles — ideal for beginners and occasional market visits. Models such as the Floki offer good value for money without compromising on leather quality. Both brands are available in the range.
Calf-length boots with leather lining, naturally tanned options, strap-and-buckle fastening. Nubuck leather variants in brown and black. The most popular choice in the range for regular market-goers and LARP players — Leonardo Carbone and Vehi Mercatus offer comparable quality here.
15th-century over-the-knee boots and riding boots in full leather construction. Three leather straps and buckles, high shaft, natural brown leather. For elaborate late medieval costumes and ambitious re-enactment. Price range extends up to €209 for the riding boots.
Care and durability: How to keep leather boots looking good for a long time
Good leather boots are an investment that, with the right care, will pay off for many years. Before wearing them for the first time, you should rub the boots generously with leather grease or leather balm — this closes the pores, makes the leather water-repellent and prevents it from shrinking too much as it breaks in. Regular aftercare maintains suppleness and prevents cracking.
Important to note: smooth leather and suede or nubuck leather require different care products. For suede and nubuck leather, special waterproofing sprays and suede brushes are suitable — do not use creamy leather grease, as this would clog the pores of the roughened leather. For smooth leather, on the other hand, waxes and oil-based care products are ideal. In our range, you’ll find suitable care products under ‘leather dye’ and ‘leather grease’, which can also be used to refresh minor scratches and faded areas.
When it comes to storage, the rule is: do not store boots in a damp environment. It is best to store them stuffed with shoe trees or filled with newspaper — this way, they retain their shape even during the long break between two market seasons. Always allow any moisture to dry off after wearing before applying the care product.
Finding the right fit: sizes, width and comfort
The range covers sizes from 36 to 47 — ensuring that both narrow and wide feet are well catered for. Lace-up boots can be individually adjusted for width; cuffed boots with strap-and-buckle fastenings also offer some give around the calf, which is particularly relevant for knee-high styles.
Leather stretches — this is not a fault, but a characteristic. New leather boots may feel a little tight at first, but they will mould to the foot if worn and cared for regularly. A good strategy: wear the boots with thick woollen socks made from genuine wool when breaking them in for the first time — this protects the heel from blisters and keeps your feet warm on long walks. If you’re unsure whether a style will fit in your usual size or if going up a size would be better, you can call us before buying.
Whether you’re looking for Viking boots for your early medieval outfit, leg-high boots for the next medieval market, or riding boots for an elaborate late medieval costume — browse our range and find the boots that suit your era and your requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Viking boots are based on early medieval models from the 8th–10th centuries, particularly archaeological finds from Haithabu. They have a low to medium shaft and simple lacing at the ankle. Cuff boots, on the other hand, are typical of the late Middle Ages from the 14th century onwards: they have a turned-up cuff at the top of the shaft and are fastened with straps and buckles instead of lacing. For a historically accurate outfit, the type of boot should match the era of the costume.
That depends on the intended use. A rubber sole is non-slip on grass, cobblestones and uneven terrain – ideal for medieval markets and LARP. A leather sole is historically more authentic and is preferred by many re-enactors for stage combat and performances. However, leather soles can be slippery on smooth surfaces and require more care. Those who frequently visit markets often opt for the easier-to-maintain rubber sole.
The range includes sizes from 36 to 47. Models with laces or strap-and-buckle fastenings offer some leeway in terms of width, so that even wider feet are usually well catered for. When breaking in leather boots, it is advisable to wear thick woollen socks – this speeds up the process of the boot moulding to the shape of your foot.
Suede and nubuck leather should not be treated with greasy leather care creams, as these can cause the roughened material to stick together. Instead, special suede waterproofing sprays and a suede brush are suitable. After wearing them at markets, the boots should be left to dry before being cared for or stored. A dry place is recommended for storage; stuffing them with newspaper will help the boots retain their shape.
For an authentic Viking outfit from the Early Middle Ages, boots with a low to medium shaft, simple lacing at the ankle and a natural brown or black colour are suitable. Models based on finds from Haithabu are historically the most accurate. A Viking tunic, woollen trousers and leg wraps make for a good combination – a combination that is well documented archaeologically.