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Medieval Turnshoes with Straps – Rustic Style 12th–13th Century
Are you looking for footwear that adds the perfect touch of authenticity to your historical costume without failing you at the first step into the mud? These low leather boots, inspired by 12th and 13th-century fashion, are exactly what you need. Whether you are preparing for a LARP event, historical reenactment, or simply want a stylish accessory for a medieval banquet, these shoes will support you. Made using traditional methods and featuring a deliberate rustic leather texture, they look as if you have just walked through the gates of a medieval town. Step into history and embark on your adventure with the feeling of a true pilgrim or townsman. Further product information ...
The following variants are currently available:
Medieval Turnshoes with Straps – Rustic Style 12th–13th Century
Authentic Look and Construction
These shoes are based on the turnshoe construction, which was dominant in Europe for centuries. The upper is stitched to the sole inside out and then turned right side out, minimizing water penetration through the seams and protecting the thread from wear. A specific feature of this model is the use of natural leather with a rustic texture. The material is intentionally not perfectly homogeneous – small imperfections in the structure, differences in shades, or grain patterns are not defects but desirable features that give each pair a unique, "worn" look.
The boots are fastened using long leather straps. These pass through slits on the sides and instep and wrap around the ankle, ensuring a firm fit. The sole is made of rolled leather approximately 3 mm (0.12 inches) thick. As seen in the photos, the sole is reinforced with hobnails/tacks around the perimeter and in the center, which significantly increases durability and improves traction on grassy or muddy surfaces.
Historical Context: What Was Worn in the 12th and 13th Centuries?
In the High Middle Ages, this type of footwear was common across social classes, from craftsmen to the lower nobility. While the wealthy could afford finer leathers and more elaborate shapes with extremely long points, commoners and soldiers preferred functionality. The simple cut with side lacing or wrapping straps allowed the shoe to adapt to various thicknesses of wool hose or footwraps, which was crucial during colder months.
Technical Specifications
| Upper Material | Genuine natural leather (rustic finish) |
| Construction Type | Turnshoe |
| Sole | 3 mm (0.12") rolled leather, reinforced with nails |
| Fastening | Leather straps (wrap-around style) |
| Historical Period | 12th–13th Century |
| Manufacturer | Marshal Historical |
Care and Maintenance
To ensure these leather beauties serve you as long as possible, you need to give them the care natural materials deserve:
- Cleaning: Clean mud off the shoes after every event using a damp cloth or soft brush. Never wash them in a washing machine!
- Drying: If the shoes get wet, let them dry slowly at room temperature. Avoid drying them directly near radiators, fire, or in direct sunlight – the leather could harden and crack.
- Greasing: Regularly use quality leather grease or beeswax (e.g., Sno-Seal). This keeps the leather supple and increases its water resistance.
- Usage: The shoes are primarily designed for soft surfaces (dirt, grass, forest floor). Walking for long periods on concrete or asphalt significantly shortens the lifespan of the leather sole, even with the nail reinforcement.
For maximum comfort, we recommend wearing these shoes with historical hose or thick wool socks. For maintenance, we suggest our leather grease (e.g., product No. CP1).
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