The image of the Viking as a wild, unkempt barbarian is persistent, but historically inaccurate. Archaeological finds and contemporary sources paint a picture of men who – within the possibilities of their time – paid great attention to their appearance. Clothing in the Viking Age was not only a means to stay warm; it was a powerful symbol of status, identity, and religious piety.
Quick Facts: The Viking Wardrobe
- Hygiene as norm: Viking men often carried combs, tweezers, and ear spoons with them. Hygiene was essential for both social status and ritual piety.
- Layering: The standard outfit consisted of a linen undershirt (skyrta), a woolen tunic (kyrtill), and trousers (brækr).
- Leg wrappings (winingas): An essential part of clothing, often made in herringbone or twill weave, for protection and extra warmth.
- Oath rings: Bracelets were more than decoration; they served as symbols of agreements and reciprocity (oath rings).
- Eastern influences: The caftan, borrowed from steppe cultures, was the status symbol for the elite in regions like Birka.
The Basics: Tunic and Trousers
The clothing of the Viking man was functional, but featured great variation in cut and finish.
- The undershirt (Skyrta): Under the outer garment, men typically wore a fitted linen shirt. The famous example from Viborg (ca. 1018) shows that this garment often consisted of many pieces and demonstrated outstanding craftsmanship, with details such as tapered sleeves and decorative flaps at the neck.
- The woolen tunic (Kyrtill): Over the linen shirt was worn a woolen tunic. This varied from simple to more complex designs with gores (triangular insert pieces) for greater freedom of movement. The length ranged from hip-length to below the knee.
- Trousers (Brækr): There were different models: the wide, pleated hábrækr and the simpler ankle trousers ökulbrækr. For heavy work, simple linen underdrawers were often worn.
Leg Wrappings and Caftans
Leg wrappings (winingas) were wrapped around the trousers from the ankle to below the knee. This provided protection against brush and cold.
Caftan
Among the higher circles, we also saw the caftan, an outer garment with Eastern influences. Wealthier men displayed their status through caftans of silk, adorned with embroidery or fur, and fastened with a row of bronze or silver buttons.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Were Vikings really as clean as claimed?
Yes, medieval sources and the abundance of combs and grooming kits found in men's graves indicate that Vikings bathed regularly and placed great value on a well-groomed appearance.
What's the difference between a 'feldr' and a 'skikkja'?
A feldr is a sturdy, rectangular woolen cloak for everyday use and travel, while a skikkja is a luxurious cloak, often of finer materials such as silk, intended for nobility or official occasions.
Why did they wear leg wrappings?
Leg wrappings provided protection against cold and brush in the Scandinavian landscape. Moreover, they kept the trousers tight against the leg, which was very practical during horseback riding.
Were there many regional differences?
Absolutely. In Norway and Iceland, wool dominated due to the climate, while in Sweden and eastern trading regions, linen and imported luxury materials such as silk were more commonly used.
Was a bracelet really an oath ring?
Yes, this practice stems from the Indo-European tradition. The exchange of rings sealed agreements and oath-bonds, similar to how we exchange rings today.
Internal links
- The Viking Woman: An Analysis of Historical Dress (8th–10th Century)
- The Karl: The Backbone of the Viking World
- Colorful Viking Age: How Natural Pigments Debunk the Myth of the Gray North
Sources
- Ewing, T. (2006). Viking Clothing. Tempus.
- Hägg, I. (1984). Die Textilfunde aus Birka. Uppsala.
- Primary source: The Poetic Edda: **Rígsþula (Sections on men's clothing).
