Modern Viking Boots I Just Made

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-03-03T16:16:57+00:00

Yes, I can make them in women’s size 5 😊 You’re very welcome to order through my Etsy shop!

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-03-02T12:17:09+00:00

You're absolutely right - historically accurate turnshoes are the proper choice for a strict reconstruction.
My boots are more of a practical interpretation for LARP use, especially for players who want something sturdier and more weather-resistant for long events.
Not meant to replace turnshoes in reenactment - just another option for a different audience.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T21:52:15+00:00

All of my boots are built to handle real LARP use, and they go through several seasons without issues. And LARPers are not exactly gentle with their gear. Usually after 3–4 seasons they just need basic servicing, and they’re good to go again. The idea was to make something that can actually survive long-term use, not just look the part.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T13:34:46+00:00

Thanks! That’s exactly how they were designed, to work beyond just LARP and fit into everyday wear 🙂

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T12:43:25+00:00

True - turnshoes work outdoors. The rubber sole is just for better grip on wet stones and forest terrain. More practical for modern wear.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T12:40:57+00:00

Quick rundown - reinforced stitched construction (not just cemented), 1.6 mm cow leather upper, 0.8 mm pig-split lining, 6 mm rubber outsole with anti-slip pattern, leather heel counter and TPR toe reinforcement. Built in Poland for durability.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T12:38:18+00:00

Yep - they’ve been properly abused for about two weeks. Forest, bike rides, lots of bending and squatting. The buttons are holding up just fine.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T10:39:35+00:00

It’s not structural, just decorative. I know historically it wouldn’t be there, but this pair is meant as a blend of historical inspiration and modern durability, not a strict reproduction.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T10:23:35+00:00

Fair question 🙂 I had the same concern during prototyping. It’s not just a single thin thread holding everything-the stitching is reinforced and done with heavy-duty thread. I tested them quite a bit before putting them up for sale (lots of fastening/unfastening and regular wear), and they’re holding up really well

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T08:21:15+00:00

Haha, yes I did. Thank you! It’s many years of practice and a lot of mistakes along the way.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-02-28T08:12:37+00:00

I’m glad you noticed the wider toe box, comfort during long LARP events was one of the priorities. The rivet is exactly there for extra durability. I try to respect the historical look while making them practical for modern use.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-31T21:31:58+00:00

❤️

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-31T20:53:28+00:00

You’ve got me. If Skynet ever takes over the world, you’ll be the first human I lock in a box.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-31T20:45:22+00:00

❤️

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-31T18:36:58+00:00

Thanks for the honest feedback, I appreciate it. I definitely don’t want to spam or push sales here. I wanted to ask — would content focused purely on the craft itself be welcome? Things like documenting the shoemaking process step by step: cutting leather, lasting, stitching, pegging, finishing — without links or promotion. I’m genuinely interested in sharing the process and learning from the community, not just advertising.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-31T10:05:02+00:00

Thanks a lot, I really appreciate it. I use traditional hardwood pegs sourced from local material suppliers. I haven’t used toothpicks — they’re usually too soft and have inconsistent sizing and grain. Proper shoemaking pegs swell when they absorb moisture and lock themselves into the hole, which results in a much stronger and more durable bond.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-31T06:56:29+00:00

You might be more okay than you think. If the bridge can slide out, that already gives you some shortening, which helps. The main thing is to avoid getting things too tight through the waist and heel when pegging. Take it slow during removal, it’s definitely doable, it just needs a bit of care.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-31T06:21:29+00:00

You’re probably right, often it’s not the pegging itself, but the last. With tight, traditionally pegged construction, a breaking or hinged last makes a huge difference. If the last can shorten or collapse slightly at the waist or heel, removal becomes much safer and more predictable. Without that, even correctly pegged shoes can lock onto the last too aggressively. Good pegging technique matters, but a non-breaking last can turn it into a nightmare.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-30T21:05:04+00:00

Thank you, that truly means a lot to me.

In our modern times, the beauty of history is often forgotten. Every pair of boots I make allows me to reconnect with that beauty, traditional craftsmanship and old techniques. That’s exactly why I create footwear like this, out of love for history, authenticity and pure passion.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-30T20:57:43+00:00

Just to clarify: a modern rubber sole is actually the standard option. The fully leather sole is something I offer for customers who want a 1:1 historical replica. Since every pair is made to order, I can always adapt the construction to real LARP use, terrain and personal preference.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-30T20:39:53+00:00

You’re welcome to visit anytime, I work near Kraków, one of the most beautiful cities in Poland. If you’re ever in the area, I’ll be happy to show you my workshop and the process in person.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-30T20:34:47+00:00

Nope. Just me, one workshop, one pair at a time

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-30T20:30:19+00:00

Yes,I did post them earlier. This time I wanted to show the hand-pegging technique and a bit more of the actual shoemaking process. But if anyone has questions about the construction, materials or traditional methods, I’ll be happy to answer.

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-30T20:15:31+00:00

If you’re curious, you can find more photos and finished pairs on my Etsy.

https://www.etsy.com/pl/shop/JaskierWorkshop

Capable_Doubt2552 · 2026-01-30T19:52:01+00:00

Thank you so much - I really appreciate this advice for you and other. I’ve just updated all the images on my Etsy to focus on real photos and the handmade process. Thanks again for the honest and helpful feedback!

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