birka shoes buty birka
birka shoes buty birka
shoes from birka buty z birki

Birka shoes type 1B / hand-sewn

140,00 €

Birka shoes. Inspired by a find from Birki in Sweden.

Made from 3.2 to 3.5 mm thick cowhide leather.

Height 15cm.

Very durable, comfortable, pleasantly soft, perfect for everyday use. A product made of the highest quality leather, hand-stitched with linen waxed thread. Tailored to size, tied with straps (included with the shoes). The inserted leather counter guarantees high durability. The thick 4.5-5mm sole ensures long-lasting use. Altogether, you have about 8mm of leather under your foot!

It’s best to take all measurements with thin socks. If you plan to wear thick woolen socks, please note that in the COMMENTS TO ORDER section – this affects the size of the shoes.

SIZE GUIDE:

EU SIZE / INSOLE LENGTH / FOOT LENGTH – provide the most commonly used size in modern footwear. To ensure you’ve chosen the right size, measure the insole of the shoes you wear daily and compare that length to the measurements on the form on the website. In the gallery, you’ll find a drawing with instructions on how to take measurements. You can also trace your foot on paper, holding the pencil perpendicular to the ground, then measure the length of your foot from toe to heel, adding 0.5cm.

FOOT WIDTH – trace your foot on paper, holding the pencil perpendicular to the ground, then measure the width of your foot at its widest point.

INSTEP CIRCUMFERENCE – measure the circumference at the indicated point, loosely.

INSTEP CIRCUMFERENCE / HEEL – measure the circumference at the widest possible point on the foot, between the instep and the heel, loosely.

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS:

If you want the shoes additionally impregnated – click on the link: SHOE IMPREGNATION – SERVICE

If you want an additional rubber sole – click on the link: RUBBER SOLE – ADDITIONAL OPTION

If you want shoes with a studded sole – click on the link: SHOE HOBNAILED – SERVICE

Completion time within 14 days – counted from the moment the payment is credited to the account. During the peak season of May/August, the deadline may extend to 21 days.

I have 20 years of experience in producing footwear for reenactors, which you’ll feel when walking in the shoes made by me: comfortably, with comfort, for many, many years…

Product available


Brand: Wojmir

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Birka shoes – hand-sewn Viking leather turnshoes based on archaeological finds from Birka

Birka shoes are a historically accurate reconstruction of Viking Age footwear inspired by archaeological discoveries from Birka, one of the most important Viking trading centres in Scandinavia between the 8th and 10th centuries. Located in present-day Sweden, Birka was a major hub of commerce, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange, providing valuable archaeological material that helps us understand early medieval clothing and shoemaking traditions.

These Viking shoes are based on preserved leather footwear fragments uncovered during excavations in Birka. The design reflects typical early medieval construction methods and proportions known from original finds. Birka shoes represent practical everyday footwear worn by inhabitants of Viking settlements, combining durability with flexibility and comfort.

The shoes are made from high-quality natural leather and constructed using the traditional turnshoe method, a widely used medieval technique in which the shoe is sewn inside out and then turned to the correct side. This method creates a flexible structure that adapts naturally to the foot, ensuring comfort while maintaining historical authenticity.

Each pair of Birka shoes is hand-sewn using techniques inspired by historical craftsmanship. Natural leather provides breathability, durability, and long-lasting comfort. The minimalist and functional design reflects the practical needs of Viking Age societies, where footwear had to perform well in various weather conditions and terrain typical of Northern Europe.

Historical background – Viking shoes from Birka

Birka was one of the earliest urban centres in Scandinavia and played a key role in trade networks connecting Viking communities across Europe and beyond. Archaeological excavations carried out at the site have revealed numerous everyday objects, including well-preserved leather artifacts such as shoes, belts, and clothing accessories.

Footwear discovered in Birka demonstrates the high level of leatherworking skill present in Viking Age society. The turnshoe construction method was commonly used across Northern Europe, offering a balance of durability, flexibility, and efficient production. Shoes of this type were worn by both men and women and formed an essential element of daily clothing.

Modern reconstructions of Birka shoes are based on archaeological documentation and preserved fragments, allowing craftsmen to reproduce historically accurate footwear consistent with early medieval shoemaking traditions.

Product features

  • Birka shoes based on Viking Age archaeological finds
  • traditional turnshoe construction (sewn inside out)
  • hand-sewn using historical techniques
  • made from natural leather
  • historically accurate design
  • flexible and comfortable fit
  • breathable natural material
  • durable construction
  • authentic early medieval style
  • unique handcrafted product

Applications

  • Viking Age reenactment
  • historical reconstruction groups
  • LARP and living history events
  • museum presentations
  • historical education
  • early medieval costume completion
  • historical photography
  • traditional craft demonstrations

Birka shoes are an excellent choice for reenactors, historians, and enthusiasts looking for authentic Viking Age footwear created according to archaeological evidence. Each pair reflects traditional craftsmanship and the functional design typical of early medieval Scandinavian leather shoes.

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