Gothic Poulaines boots

Light Brown Gothic Poulaines Shoes With Extreme Pointed Toes

Historical Context And Practical Usage

The term poulaines (also known as crakows) is synonymous with High Gothic fashion. The tips of the shoes reached such extreme lengths that in the 15th century, special sumptuary laws had to be issued restricting their length according to social status. For example, in 1463, it was decreed that no knight or squire could wear toes longer than two inches (approx. 5 cm). Commoners could only have a slightly elongated toe, while the high nobility wore extravagant shapes that exceeded the length of the foot itself. Our historical model with this distinctly elongated and curled toe is the ideal choice for portraying a wealthy nobleman, an influential merchant, or a court jester. These medieval leather shoes will shine at historical festivals, LARPs, and in theatrical plays. Important warning: Exercise extreme caution when walking up stairs, running, or dancing. The extreme toe requires practice so you do not trip over it and cause yourself an injury.

Technical Parameters Of The Gothic Shoes

Sizes And Custom Tailoring

You can choose these historical shoes from our standard EU sizes. If you desire absolute comfort or have a specific foot shape, we also offer custom tailoring. Simply select the custom option when choosing your size, and carefully fill out our measurement chart after submitting your order. Furthermore, if you wear orthopaedic insoles, it is absolutely essential to send these insoles to us in advance. The shoemaker will integrate them directly and precisely into the footbed so the shoes fit you perfectly.

Leather Care And Safety Warnings

To ensure these unique shoes serve you for many seasons, proper care is essential. Leather is a natural material and requires regular nourishment. The shoes are treated with a beeswax balm during production. Regularly grease them with a high-quality leather balm or a special leather oil. The balm softens the leather, waterproofs it, and gives it a slightly darker, more authentic shade. You can touch up minor scuffs with standard shoe polish. If you get caught in the rain at an event, stuff the footwear with old newspaper and let it dry very slowly at room temperature. Never dry the shoes on a radiator, near an open fire, or in direct sunlight! Rapid drying would irreversibly damage the leather, causing it to crack and harden.

Recommended Accessories

To accompany these extravagant Gothic poulaines, we highly recommend purchasing period woollen chausses (medieval leggings) and historical linen braies (underpants), which are intrinsically linked to this type of footwear and will bring your costume to absolute perfection.