LARP Pants

Trousers in the Middle Ages

It is often said that trousers were virtually unknown as a garment in the Middle Ages. But that certainly only applies to the kind of trousers we know today. Trousers were worn by the Celts, Scythians and other peoples long before Christ.

The Germanic peoples, Normans, Vikings, Anglo-Saxons and other ethnic groups probably learned about trousers from the Celts. At the latest since the bog finds near Thorsberg, we even know of trousers from the early Middle Ages that at least come close to today's trousers.

The development of trousers

Throughout the Middle Ages, the development of legwear took an adventurous course with its style. Calf wraps, gaiters, knee breeches, leg warmers, knee dresses and above all tights were intended to keep the legs warm. At the same time, however, freedom of movement should not be restricted.

The Germanic tribes in the Middle Ages developed the waistband trousers. They were tied at the hips with a sack-like shape and left holes at the bottom for the legs. Later, the cut changed so that the legs of this type of trousers reached almost to the ankles.

Medieval underwear

This probably gave rise to the most important male undergarment in the Middle Ages. The brouche came in short, long and knee-length forms. Mostly, however, it served as a kind of underwear under the tunic. Throughout history, the trousers were made of wool, linen or leather. Later, silk was added for the nobility. The medieval Bruech, Bruche or Brouche underwent many changes. In the end, they developed into pure pants under the waistband trousers and the wrapped stockings. These could almost reach the shape of today's briefs.

The medieval trousers as clothing for ladies and gentlemen

The forerunners of the Vikings in Norway were an exception. They not only dyed the trousers in black, but also used canvas as the fabric for the trousers. Such trousers were called armoured trousers. Vikings and Germanic tribes sewed trousers like the Thorsberg trousers almost as they are today. The later leggings, on the other hand, were usually still worn separately in the Middle Ages. A gusset was then used to join the leg socks together to form a whole pair of trousers. But this only came back into fashion around the year 1500. Due to the Crusades and the Viking voyages of conquest, the Orient also influenced garb in the Middle Ages. Here, the mobility of the legs was ensured by a wide cut.

Trousers from the Orient

The harem or bloomers, however, required a lot of fabric to make. They were also susceptible to damage and tears. This type of garment became a distinctive mark for pirates and other travelling folk. The women or ladies of the early Middle Ages also wore leggings or trousers. In the beginning, they used this clothing just like the men and gentlemen.

It was not until the High Middle Ages that trousers remained a prerogative of men for 500 years. This was certainly also due to the influence of the Church. From the High Middle Ages onwards, it wanted to push back any mixing of the sexes. In any case, the late Romans judged this strange garment as barbaric, as it enclosed the legs individually.

Clothes you look good in

This great variety in legwear today gives you limitless freedom in your choice of trousers. You can wear almost any kind of pants for your medieval or fantasy appearance. Which colour goes best with your doublet or tunic? Choose black or brown, white or grey. Do you prefer the tighter tights or do you opt for the comfortable Thorsberg trousers? Perhaps the well-known medieval trousers "Ragnar" suit you? Knee breeches with woollen calf wraps are also very chic. The medieval trousers with the drawstring can be counted among the very comfortable garments.

You should like your garments

Choose a matching shirt, tunic or gambeson to go with your trousers. This will give you the basis for a stylish garment. Black or brown trousers must of course go well with your role as a Viking, elf or wizard. Leg warmers and tights suit the more delicate elves better.

The sturdy Viking is well served by Thorsberg trousers made of modern cotton. People are not used to seeing a wizard in trousers. The floor-length tunic might look better over the trousers. But you know yourself, your role and your taste best.

Best cotton in black, brown or white in our shop

Of course, you will only find leg warmers made of high-quality fabrics in our online-shop. They are easy to wash like linen or cotton. Nevertheless, they are stable and durable. With the size chart you can choose your medieval pants to fit exactly. All our trousers are suitable for both men and women.

When cutting the leg warmers, we have paid attention to both comfort and mobility. And when it comes to value for money, you will also be satisfied. We are happy to get in touch with our customers. We like to share our knowledge with you and give you all the information you need on the phone or via the contact form.

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