Early Middle Ages Viking shoes of the Jorvik type with leather buttons - Outlet
Imagine walking the muddy streets of 10th-century York. These early medieval Jorvik-style ankle boots bring history to life with exceptional accuracy. Crafted from heavy-duty buffalo leather, they are built to withstand the rigours of historical re-enactment and demanding LARP adventures. The defining feature is the unique closure with leather toggles, which provides a secure fit around the ankle while maintaining a period-correct silhouette. Whether you are a fierce Northman or a travelling merchant, these boots will grant your kit a level of historical depth that commands respect. Step into the past with footwear designed for the modern warrior. Further product information ...
Authentic Viking Age Jorvik Buffalo Leather Boots with Traditional Toggle Fastenings
Construction and Practical Application
Designed for history enthusiasts, these boots offer a perfect balance of authenticity and durability. The upper is made from 2mm (approx. 5 oz) leather, while the 6mm (1/4") sole is secured using traditional cobbler’s nails. Before heading into the field, we recommend "breaking them in" at home to allow the leather to soften and conform to your feet. If you have a high instep or intend to wear thick woolen socks, we strongly advise choosing one size larger than your standard footwear for maximum comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Upper Material | Natural Buffalo Leather |
| Sole Material | Hardened Leather (Nailed) |
| Closure Type | Two leather toggles (rolled leather) |
| Boot Height | approx. 19 cm (7.5") |
| Upper Leather Thickness | approx. 2 mm (5 oz) |
| Sole Thickness | approx. 6 mm (1/4") |
| Colour | Dark Brown |
| Weight (Pair) | approx. 900 g (1.98 lbs) |
| Historical Period | 9th - 10th Century (Early Middle Ages) |
Size Chart
| Size EUR | Size US | Sole Length (cm / inches) |
|---|---|---|
| 42 | 8 | 29.5 cm (11.6") |
| 43 | 9 | 30.0 cm (11.8") |
| 44 | 10 | 31.0 cm (12.2") |
| 45 | 11 | 32.0 cm (12.6") |
| 46 | 12 | 33.0 cm (13.0") |
Historical Context: From the North of England to Northern Europe
This model is based on significant archaeological finds from York, England, which was captured by the Vikings in 866 AD and renamed Jorvik. Similar footwear remains have been discovered at the Viking trade centre of Haithabu (Hedeby) in modern-day Germany. This toggle-closure style was incredibly popular across various social classes during the Viking Age. Interestingly, original leather toggles were sometimes replaced by more affluent owners with buttons carved from bone or antler to display their status and personal style.
Leather Care and Safety
To ensure your boots serve you for many years, they require regular maintenance. After use in wet conditions, allow them to air dry naturally (never place them near a direct heat source, as the leather will become brittle and crack). Periodically apply leather conditioner or beeswax to keep the material supple and water-resistant.
Warning: The nailed leather sole is extremely slippery on modern surfaces such as tiles, laminate, or linoleum. Use extreme caution when walking indoors to avoid falls. These boots are not intended for modern sports or as safety work boots.
Recommended Accessories
For a complete Viking impression, we recommend pairing these boots with linen or wool leg wraps (winingas) and hand-knitted woolen socks.
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