Dark brown gothic high boots with side lacing

Dark Brown Gothic Leather Tall Boots with Side Lacing and Leaf Dagging

Practical Use and Historical Context

These tall boots reflect the European fashion of the 14th and 15th centuries. Footwear with an elongated toe, the so-called poulaines or crakows, was typical for the High and Late Gothic periods. This model features a toe of a practical and moderate length, so it will not restrict you during fast walking, running, or fencing. A prominent fashion element is the cuff finished with what is known as dagging in the shape of oak leaves, which was a highly popular sign of luxury in Europe at the time. The lacing, unconventionally placed on the outer side of the calf, represents a historically documented alternative to the more common back lacing and allows the boot to be pulled tightly around the leg. This creates the desired narrow silhouette dictated by medieval fashion.

Material and Construction

The product is sewn from durable cowhide leather in a dark brown shade with a slightly matte finish. Leather laces on the outer side of the calf, passing through reinforced holes, ensure a firm fit on the leg. The construction of the smooth leather sole is designed for movement in period encampments, castles, and unpaved roads. Honest stitching guarantees that the boot will last you for many seasons with proper care.

Parameters of the Gothic Boots with Side Lacing

Sizes and Custom Tailoring

These historical boots are standardly available in regular European (EU) sizes. If you choose the custom-made option, the boots are sewn exactly according to your specified body proportions. If you normally wear orthopaedic insoles and wish to use them in this footwear as well, it is absolutely essential to physically send them to us before production begins. The shoemaker will permanently and precisely fit them into the shoes to ensure that the boots fit you absolutely perfectly and your walking is healthy and comfortable.

Leather Footwear Care

From the workshop, the footwear is treated with a high-quality leather balm containing genuine beeswax. The balm effectively softens the material, waterproofs it against morning dew, and gives it a characteristic richer shade. To maintain a long lifespan for the boot, regularly clean off heavy dirt with a damp cloth. After drying completely at room temperature, apply another layer of balm, conditioner, or neatsfoot oil to the leather. You can safely use standard brown shoe polish, which perfectly masks scuffs from weapons and unifies the colour of the entire surface.

Safety and Precautions

We strongly warn you that the smooth sole can be very unpleasantly slippery on wet grass, mud, wet stones, or modern smooth floors (tiles, linoleum). Exercise heightened caution when moving in such environments to prevent falls. Never dry the boots in close proximity to an open fire, on hot stoves, or directly on a radiator. Extreme heat will irreversibly dry out the natural leather, causing it to harden, lose its flexibility, and highly likely crack.