Bundhosen: Knee-Length Lederhosen
Bundhosen are knee-length leather trousers that close just below the knee with laces, buckles or buttons. They keep more of the leg covered than short styles, so they are warmer on a September evening and carry a slightly more formal, traditional look.
That makes them a natural choice for weddings, festivals and club events. Choose cow suede, goatskin or deerskin in men's, women's and big and tall sizes.
What makes bundhosen different
The name comes from the band (Bund) that closes each leg below the knee. That cuff is the defining feature: it holds the leather snugly around the top of the calf so the trousers stay in place when you walk, sit or dance. Above the cuff, men's leather bundhosen have the same traditional details as shorter styles: a drop-front flap, embroidered side seams, horn-style buttons and H-bar suspenders.
| Short styles | Bundhosen | |
|---|---|---|
| Length | Above the knee | Just below the knee |
| Closure at the leg | Open hem | Laced, buckled or buttoned cuff |
| Warmth | Best for warm days and busy tents | Better for cool evenings and outdoor fests |
| Formality | Relaxed, festival look | Traditional, slightly more formal |
| Socks | Knee socks or loferl | Knee socks pulled up to meet the cuff |
Cuff styles: laced, buckled or buttoned
- Laced cuffs are the most adjustable. Tighten or loosen them to suit your calf and your socks.
- Buckle cuffs give a neat, tailored finish and are quick to fasten.
- Side buttons at the knee are the cleanest look, with a fixed fit.
The product page shows which closure each pair uses.
Leathers and prices
Cow suede bundhosen start at $139 and are the practical everyday choice. They use more leather than shorts, which is why they cost a little more. Goatskin styles ($199 to $219) are lighter and more flexible at the knee. Deerskin ($259 to $279) is the softest and most traditional leather, and it develops a deep patina with age. For women, the Weitsee Cognac Suede Women's Knee-Length Lederhosen and the Lautersee Dark Brown Goatskin Women's Knee-Length Lederhosen offer the same knee-length line on a women's pattern from $139.
Bundhosen for big and tall frames
Knee-length cuts are hard to find in larger sizes, so we make big and tall bundhosen on their own pattern, with waist sizes from US 44 to 60, a longer rise, a roomier thigh and extended suspenders. They start at $159, with sizes 52 to 60 costing $10 more.
How bundhosen should fit
Around the waist and seat, bundhosen fit like any genuine leather trousers: close at first, then softer and more comfortable as the leather settles. The difference is at the knee. The cuff should sit just below the kneecap so it does not pinch when you bend your leg, and it should close firmly over your socks without cutting in. If you have muscular calves, laced cuffs give you the most room to adjust. Check the size chart on each product page and our size guide before you order.
Socks, shoes and styling
Lederhosen knee socks are essential with bundhosen: pull them up so the top sits under the cuff and no skin shows at the knee. Natural wool, grey and cream are traditional, and green socks pick up green embroidery. Haferl shoes or sturdy brown leather shoes suit the longer line better than sneakers. On top, a white linen shirt looks formal enough for a wedding, while a checked shirt keeps things relaxed. Add a wool vest or a Janker jacket for cold days.
Complete bundhosen outfits
If you would rather have every piece matched, our bundhosen sets pair the trousers with a shirt and socks. The Attel Dark Brown Bundhosen Outfit Set is cow suede with a red checked shirt, and the Ostrach Chestnut Bundhosen Outfit Set uses goatskin with a white shirt, wool socks and a felt hat.
When to choose bundhosen
Choose bundhosen if you run cold, if your event is outdoors in autumn, or if the occasion calls for a more traditional, grown-up look, such as a wedding, a christening or a formal club event. They are also a good choice if you simply prefer longer trousers. For a broader overview of styles and leathers, browse our full range of lederhosen.
Looking for more styles? Explore our full range of lederhosen.
Bundhosen, Knee Length: frequently asked questions
What are bundhosen?
Bundhosen are knee-length lederhosen that close just below the knee with a laced, buckled or buttoned cuff. They have the same front flap, embroidery and suspenders as short styles, but cover more of the leg, which makes them warmer and slightly more formal.
Are bundhosen or short lederhosen better for Oktoberfest?
Both are traditional. Short styles are cooler in a busy tent and easier to dance in. Bundhosen are better for outdoor events, cool evenings and anyone who prefers a longer, more formal look. Many regular festivalgoers own one of each.
What socks do you wear with bundhosen?
Wear knee socks long enough to reach the cuff, so no skin shows at the knee. Natural wool, grey, cream and green are traditional choices. Loferl calf warmers are usually worn with shorter styles rather than bundhosen.
How should the knee cuff of bundhosen fit?
The cuff should sit just below the kneecap and close firmly over your socks without pinching. Laced cuffs are the easiest to adjust if you have larger calves. Check the size chart on the product page for the leg measurements of each style.