Winingas, pair (2)

Known variously as legwraps, wickelbander or puttees, winingas are woven woolen strips which were wrapped around the lower leg among the Anglo-Saxon and Viking cultures.

These woolen bands are of a statistically uniform type, occuring among the textile remnants excavated from early medieval urban sites across Europe from Dublin, Ireland to the Finnish graves at Zalatovye. The bands are usually 3"-4" wide (75-100 mm), and selvedges on both sides indicate the bands were woven to this narrow size rather than cut. The weave is almost invariably of a very fine quality 'herringbone' twill.

Methods of securing the winingas are subject to speculation. It is thought that the most common method was simply tucking in the loose ends, although there is occassional evidence of more elaborate methods. Ties below the knee suggesting garters with tassels or tags are seen on some high status figures such as the three Magi of the 'Benedictional of St. Aethelwold (Anglo-Saxon 971-984AD) and the Bayeau Tapestry. Hooks appear to have been used; a pair of hooks were found below the kneecaps of the skeleton in Birka graves Bj903 and similar bird or mask-like hooks are known from other finds.

• Edges are finished with a discrete machine blanket stitch. Can be hand hemmed by the purchaser for a more authentic look.
• Available in assorted herringbone weave fabrics (Currently available selections appear in the drop down menu)
• One size is 10' long
• XL are 13' long

This product has been developed in consultation with the Authenticity Officers for Regia Anglorum in the US and UK, as well as the Authenticity Officers for the Vikings UK and NA. Although it is policy for both groups to avoid giving blanket endorsements to vendors, this garment conforms to current Regia Anglorum and Vikings kit standards.

• One size- 4" x 10' (approx.)
• XL- 4" x 13' (approx.)

A helpful video demonstrating one way to wrap winingas can be found here: HOW TO WRAP WININGAS
 

Thanks to Peter Beatson, whose informative article on wickelbander provided a basis for this description