Basic Starter Kit

We understand that joining a reenactment group can feel like a big step, especially if you've never done anything like it before. Because of that, we do not expect potential new members to arrive at their first event fully kitted out. In fact, you're more than welcome to attend in normal clothing for your first visit, get a feel for the group, meet the crew, ask questions, and see if the hobby is right for you before spending any money. If you decide you'd like to continue after your first event, we do ask that you begin putting together a basic set of Viking clothing. Don't worry, this doesn't need to be perfectly authentic or expensive. The kit list below focuses on affordable, beginner-friendly options that create a convincing Viking appearance without breaking the bank. Our priority is enthusiasm and participation, and every experienced member started somewhere. We would much rather see a new member in simple budget kit enjoying themselves than someone feeling put off by the cost of the hobby.

Estimated Beginner Cost: Around £90-£150 for a complete basic outfit, often less if buying second-hand. Our priority is helping you get involved and enjoy the hobby. You can always upgrade individual items as your interest and experience grows.

Under Tunic

The under tunic forms the foundation of your Viking clothing and is worn beneath the outer tunic. For beginners, a simple Viking-style cotton or linen-look tunic in a natural colour such as cream, grey, brown, or muted blue is more than suitable. Avoid modern shirts, visible logos, zips, or printed designs. Basic Viking-style tunics can often be found on eBay, Amazon, Etsy, and other reenactment marketplaces from around £12-£20, making them one of the most affordable pieces of kit.

Dresses

For women, a simple underdress is the starting point and creates a solid foundation for future kit upgrades. A plain, ankle-length dress in a natural or muted colour is ideal, and can later be paired with an apron dress if desired. Beginners do not need expensive hand-finished garments, and simple Viking-style dresses can often be found from around £20-£30 through reenactment and LARP suppliers.

Shoes / Boots

Historically accurate shoes are often one of the more expensive items, so we understand that beginners may need a practical alternative. Simple leather shoes or ankle boots in brown or black with minimal modern features are usually acceptable for beginners. Avoid trainers, brightly coloured footwear, visible sports branding, or modern hiking boots where possible. Suitable footwear can often be sourced from charity shops, Vinted, or online marketplaces from around £15-£30.

Outer Tunic

The outer tunic is the garment most people will notice and helps create the overall Viking appearance. A plain tunic in a slightly different colour to your under tunic works well and instantly makes an outfit look more complete. Cotton is perfectly acceptable for beginners provided the cut looks Viking rather than modern. Budget outer tunics can frequently be found online from around £20-£30, with second-hand reenactment groups often providing even cheaper options.

Leg Wraps

Leg wraps, also known as winingas, are optional for comfort but highly recommended as they instantly improve the overall appearance of a kit. They help secure loose trousers and cover modern footwear while adding a distinctly Viking look. Cotton versions are perfectly acceptable for new members and can often be found from around £10-£15, making them one of the best value additions to any outfit.

Pouches

A belt pouch is useful for carrying modern essentials discreetly while helping complete the Viking appearance. A simple leather drawstring pouch or belt pouch is all that is needed when starting out. Avoid modern bum bags, phone holsters, or visible plastic accessories. Budget pouches suitable for reenactment can often be found from around £7-£15, making them an inexpensive but worthwhile addition to any kit.

Trousers

Simple Viking-style trousers are comfortable, practical, and complete the basic look. Loose-fitting trousers in natural colours such as brown, grey, green, or beige work best. Avoid jeans, cargo trousers, tracksuit bottoms, or anything with obvious modern pockets and branding. Entry-level Viking trousers can often be purchased from £15-£25, with many available from LARP and reenactment suppliers.

Belt

A simple leather belt is essential and ties the entire outfit together. The belt provides somewhere to hang a pouch and other accessories while helping the tunic hang correctly. Avoid decorative fantasy buckles or obviously modern belts. A plain leather belt suitable for Viking reenactment can commonly be found from around £10-£15 and will last for many years.

Suggested Sites

Amazon

Good for basic tunics, belts, pouches, leg wraps and simple boots. Prices are often competitive and delivery is quick.

eBay

Great for both new and second-hand Viking clothing, belts, pouches and footwear.

Other Useful Sites

Mytholon, Burgschneider, Epic Armoury, The Knight Shop, Southern Swords, and Chow's Emporium all stock a range of tunics, trousers, belts, leg wraps, pouches, footwear, and accessories at beginner-friendly prices. Don't overlook Vinted, Facebook Marketplace, and reenactment buy-and-sell groups, as second-hand kit can often be purchased for a fraction of the cost of buying new. Many experienced reenactors regularly sell surplus clothing, making these marketplaces some of the best places to build a complete starter kit without spending a fortune. Before making any purchases, feel free to ask the group for advice, as members can often recommend trusted suppliers and point you towards current bargains.