Viking Fashion: A Guide to the Different Types of Pants
Are you drawn to the robust and powerful look of Viking outfits?
If you’d like to experience the majesty and strength of ancient Scandinavia and its people, there’s no better way to slip into a Viking outfit. The beautiful, rich costumes of the Viking Age are steeped in Norse tradition and simple elegance.
Do you want to try one on but need to know which types of pants to use for a Viking costume?
Don’t worry. We’re here to help.
This article explores different types of Viking pants. Read on to get the inside information on Viking pants and how to ensure your costume gets noticed!
Kyrtill Pants
Kyrtill pants are the main traditional Viking fashion items long associated with Viking culture. These pants have been found in Scandinavian archaeological excavations, demonstrating their important role in Viking society.
They are often described as being like modern jeans but with several defining characteristics. The trousers were cut from two pieces of wool cloth stitched together and then laced with leather thongs.
The Kyrtill trousers had a few distinguishing features, including an extra pocket flap in the rear and decorative leather fringing along the hem.
The back of the Kyrtill pants was more voluminous than the front and was often bell-shaped or splayed at the sides for added volume and comfort. These pants were held up by leather ties at the waist and fastened with multiple straight lines of decoration.
Serk Pants
The Serk pants were a type of Viking fashion that is believed to have been created in the 8th century and then grew in popularity during the 10th century to the 11th century Europe. These trousers had the unique feature of being tailored to the shape of the legs, creating a slim fit.
They were made of mainly wool and sometimes linen fabrics and often featured patterned embroidery. These trousers were held up by straps tied in a knot. They were accepted by all classes, from the wealthiest to the lowest, and were one of the most common pieces of Viking clothing.
The Serk pants were usually worn with a tunic and were part of the go-to outfit that could be seen in daily life during the Viking Age.
Hosa Pants
Hosa pants are one of the most popular types of pants worn by modern Viking enthusiasts. This style dates to the early Viking Age and is a loose, wraparound pant traditionally made from wool, linen, or leather, with open sides and hip belts for adjustment.
The design allows for freedom of movement in activities, including raiding and warfare. The natural colors of hosa pants also tend to blend in with the environment, making them ideal for hiding or blending in.
Viking warriors often wore hosa pants for practical as well as decorative purposes because of their flexibility and ability to layer them for warmth. Hosa pants were allowed to go down to the feet but were often trimmed higher above the ankle with the pant legs frayed.
Hosa pants are still prevalent today among modern Viking enthusiasts, allowing them to express their admiration for the Viking Age while still being able to look good.
Karse/Kyrtilhosa
KarseKyrtilhosa is a type of Viking pant well-known for its comfort and durability. The pants are designed with a wide waistband, which is adjustable via a buckle and strap, and they feature lots of pleats.
The baggy style of the KasseKyrtilhosa makes it a comfortable choice while also allowing it to be breathable in warmer temperatures. It is made from linen, ensuring that it lasts longer than other pants.
The pants can also be donned with a belt or sash for a more fashionable look. The versatility of the KasseKyrtilhosa makes it a great choice for a variety of casual and formal feet, making them a staple of Viking fashion.
Winingas Pants
The traditional Viking style of dress can be seen in the Viking clothes associated with the Winingas pants. These are a type of sack-like trousers that were popular amongst Viking men during the era. The legs of the pants were secured tight to the ankle with a drawstring, and the pants were usually made of coarse wool material.
Traditionally Winingas pants were made in shades of blue, green, and beige, with patterns of patterns such as stripes, trellises, and diamond shapes woven into the fabric. Winingas pants were usually pleated in the back and had many pockets, which were perfect for storing weapons and tools.
Despite the trend of slim-fitting jeans and trousers, the Winingas pants are coming back in contemporary Viking fashion, embracing the look of the ancient Scandinavians.
Breeches Pants
Breeches Pants are one of the most iconic elements of Viking fashion. These pants feature a flared silhouette, cut close to the body around the hips and upper thigh, before flaring out toward the ankles. They can be made with various materials, including linen, wool, and leather, and often feature bold and unique patterns and designs.
These pants were a staple in the Viking wardrobe, providing ample protection against the colder climates. Vikings would pair breeches pants with:
- tunics
- cloaks
- fur hats
These pants allowed freedom of movement, making them perfect for physical activities like fighting or sailing. Combining form and function as you purchase Viking pants, breeches pants are one of the essential pieces of the Viking wardrobe.
Explore Different Types of Pants in the Vikings Fashion
Viking fashion has been around for centuries, and thanks to this guide we’ve been able to understand the different types of pants that Vikings would have worn. If you’re looking for a unique accessory, try adding some Viking pants to your wardrobe! Make sure you explore our other tutorials for further fashion tips.
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