High Saxon Leather Boots

High Saxon Leather Boots with Front Lacing and Shin Guard

Historical Context and Adjusting the Lacing

Fighting in the tight formations of the Early Middle Ages required not only courage but also functional equipment. Long kite or round shields provided excellent cover but often bumped into the warriors' legs during movement. The additional leather cuff on these boots elegantly and historically solves this problem. The boots are fastened using front lacing threaded through leather loops (toggles). If you find the boot too tight or too loose over the instep or shin, the system can be easily adjusted. Simply carefully untie the knots on the leather straps securing the loops to the boot (we recommend using an awl or a thick nail for easier untying) and proportionally shorten or lengthen the strap. This will ensure the footwear fits you absolutely perfectly.

Material, Sole, and Choosing the Right Height

The boots are honestly sewn from high-quality cowhide and equipped with a thick rubber sole featuring a pronounced tread. While this represents a modern concession from strict historical accuracy, it radically increases your safety against slipping. The standard height of this model is approximately 28 cm (11 in). If you opt for the custom-made variant, you can specify your own overall boot height. For anatomical reasons, we strongly advise against choosing a height that reaches higher than 5 cm (2 in) below your kneecap, ensuring your leg flexion is not restricted. The maximum possible leather height for custom orders is around 48 cm (18.9 in).

The basic colours the leather is supplied in are black, dark brown, and light brown (natural). Other colour shades are achieved by applying a special topcoat dye. Please keep in mind that this covering layer has the properties of patent leathers – due to the stress on the material, small cracks may form over time, or the coating may crumble locally. For the purposes of weekend historical battles and festivals, however, this finish will serve excellently.

Footwear Care and Orthotic Insoles

From the factory, the footwear is treated with a beeswax balm that softens, impregnates, and slightly tints the leather to a darker shade. To maintain a long lifespan and flexibility, regularly nourish the leather with available waxes, oils, or standard shoe polish. Shoe polish also allows you to easily cover any scuffs acquired in battle. Never dry the footwear near a direct heat source, such as an open fire or a hot radiator, as the leather would irreversibly harden and crack.

If you wear orthotic insoles and choose custom-made boots, it is absolutely necessary to send these insoles to us in advance. They will be precisely and functionally built directly into the footwear, ensuring the boots provide you with the best possible support.

Technical Parameters

With these sturdy Saxon boots, we highly recommend acquiring wide linen trousers and woollen leg wraps, which will help you bring your rugged Early Medieval appearance to absolute perfection.