The First Ribe Bouts Are History

Dear fellow Viking enthusiasts, martial artists, and history aficionados,

A few days ago, I returned from Ribe after three days of inspirational living history and dedicated historical combat practice in the most enchanting setting. First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to the Ribe VikingeCenter and its staff, especially museum director Christin V. Clausen, Ann-Sophie Skov Havemose, and Bjørke Asgar Bruun, for their generous support, hospitality, and kindness. I hope we will have the opportunity to return next year.

I would also like to thank all the attendees for their energy and enthusiasm. Once again, you managed to create a training environment that was both cheerful and dedicated, calm yet determined. Despite the absence of modern protective equipment, there were zero injuries, thanks to the participants' responsible approach and their focus on precision and control. Well done, everyone.

I will share my videos and photos with you in due course. For now, you can download the group photo at maximum resolution.

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How to Keep Your Feet Warm

When practising outside in period kit during autumn, you need to be prepared for wet feet. Usually, this isn't an issue as long as you stay active, but after a training session, the dampness can take its toll, and your feet may start to feel cold. However, there’s a simple historical solution—insoles.

A flax tow insole was found at Hedeby, the only find of its kind. The insoles I use in my turnshoes are made from felt, as wool has far better insulating properties than plant fibres. Felt, a common Slavic textile product, has been confirmed for 9th-century Hedeby, according to textile expert Inga Hägg.

In Ribe, my friend Mikkel mentioned that, after following my example, he no longer needs to wear socks when using felt insoles. So, while you may have to get used to occasional wetness in turnshoes, you don’t have to endure cold feet.

Bronze Sword Grip Discussion

Over on the Book and Sword blog, my fellow researcher Sean Manning has published a post summarising some recent opinions on how to grip Bronze Age swords, including my own. You might find it an interesting read. I’ve also left a reply in the comments section.

So, that's it for today. Take care, and keep your blade well-honed.

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Yours,

Roland

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