Hand sewn viking shoes from Haithabu type 1A
140,00 €
Hand sewn Viking shoes from Haithabu are made of cowhide with a thickness of 3.2 to 3.5 mm. The pattern of the shoes is based on the find and is consistent with its pattern.
Haithabu shoes have been fully cut and sewn by hand with waxed linen thread.
Height 25cm.
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 for many, many years…
Product available
Hand-sewn viking shoes – leather turnshoes from Hedeby (Haithabu) with leather toggle buttons
Hand-sewn viking shoes inspired by archaeological discoveries from Hedeby (Haithabu) represent an accurate reconstruction of early medieval footwear used in one of the most important Viking Age trading centres in Northern Europe. Hedeby, located in present-day Germany near the Danish border, was a major hub of commerce, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange between the 9th and 11th centuries.
These Viking shoes are made from high-quality natural leather and constructed using the traditional turnshoe method, historically known as shoes sewn inside out and then turned to the correct side. This technique was widely used throughout Scandinavia and Northern Europe because it produced flexible, durable, and comfortable footwear well suited for everyday use.
A distinctive feature of this model is the closure system using leather toggle buttons (leather buttons and straps), a characteristic detail documented in Hedeby finds. The leather toggle fastening allowed for practical adjustment and secure fitting, ensuring stability while walking. This type of closure demonstrates the functional and efficient design typical of Viking Age shoemaking traditions.
Each pair of hand-sewn viking shoes is carefully crafted using traditional techniques inspired by archaeological evidence. Natural leather ensures breathability, durability, and comfort, while the historical construction provides flexibility and an authentic early medieval appearance.
Historical background – Viking shoes from Hedeby (Haithabu)
Hedeby (Old Norse Heiðabýr), also known as Haithabu, was one of the most significant Viking Age settlements and trading centres connecting Scandinavia with continental Europe. Archaeological excavations have revealed numerous leather artifacts, including well-preserved shoes that provide valuable insight into medieval craftsmanship and everyday clothing.
Shoes discovered in Hedeby show a variety of fastening solutions, including leather toggles and buttons, which allowed for effective adjustment and ease of use. The turnshoe construction method found in these artifacts demonstrates the advanced level of leatherworking skills possessed by Viking Age craftsmen.
The reconstruction of Hedeby Viking shoes reflects historical patterns, proportions, and construction techniques observed in original archaeological materials. These shoes illustrate the balance between functionality, durability, and craftsmanship typical of Viking Age leather footwear.
Product features
- hand-sewn viking shoes based on Hedeby (Haithabu) finds
- traditional turnshoe construction (sewn inside out)
- made from natural leather
- leather toggle button fastening
- historically accurate design
- flexible and comfortable fit
- breathable natural materials
- 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
- traditional craft demonstrations
- historical photography
Hand-sewn viking shoes based on Hedeby (Haithabu) archaeological finds are an excellent choice for reenactors, historians, and enthusiasts seeking authentic Viking Age leather footwear made according to historical evidence. Each pair reflects traditional craftsmanship and the practical design characteristic of early medieval Scandinavian shoes.
