High Leather Viking Boots Jarl

High Leather Viking Boots Jarl with Horn Toggles

Historical Context and Boot Construction

Boots reaching below the knee were not a common sight for the common folk in the Early Middle Ages; they rather represented a mark of wealth and high social status. The fastening using leather straps and toggles made of horn or antler, on the other hand, was a typical and widely used element of Scandinavian fashion. This model, with a height of approximately 41 cm (16.1 in), reliably protects the entire calf and perfectly adapts to the anatomy of your leg thanks to the asymmetrical side fastening. If, upon trying them on, you find the boot too tight or too loose across the instep or calf, simply untie the knots on the leather straps holding the horn buttons and adjust the length of the strap. To make untying tight knots easier, we recommend using an awl or a thick nail.

Material, Colour Variants, and Modern Features

The upper of the footwear is precisely sewn from high-quality cowhide and decorated with distinctive stitching on the heel and instep. A major advantage of this model is the thick sole made of modern shoemaker's rubber. While this represents a concession from strict historical authenticity, it radically increases your safety. Unlike historical smooth leather soles, this model presents a much lower risk of slipping on wet grass, in mud, or on modern smooth surfaces.

By default, the leather is supplied in black, dark brown, and light brown (natural) colours. Other colour shades are achieved by applying a special topcoat dye. Please keep in mind that this dye shares the natural properties of patent leathers – over time and due to stress, small cracks may appear, or the coating may crumble locally. This is a natural phenomenon, not a defect. For occasional wear at festivals, however, it will serve excellently.

Leather Care and Custom Sizing

From the factory, the boots are treated with a beeswax balm that softens, impregnates, and gives the leather a slightly darker patina. To maintain a long lifespan and the flexibility of the hide, the boots require regular care. Waxes, leather oils, or standard shoe polish will serve excellently. Shoe polish can also easily cover any scuffs acquired in combat or while marching through the forest. Never dry the footwear near a direct heat source, such as an open fire or a radiator, as the leather would irreversibly harden and crack.

If you wear orthotic insoles and choose the custom-made variant, it is essential to send these insoles to us in advance. They will be precisely integrated directly into the boot, ensuring you receive footwear that fits you like a glove.

Technical Parameters

With these majestic high boots, we highly recommend acquiring wide linen trousers and a richly decorated tunic, which will help you achieve the perfect look of a wealthy Norse warrior.