History

There are numerous models of uniforms that were worn by members the Waffen-SS and other SS formations. The uniforms vary in both design and material, and modifications were largely based on influxes in troop numbers and the availability of material.

In July of 1940, the SS-Verfügungstruppe was officially renamed the Waffen-SS. Uniforms that were issued prior to this date will be included in the SS-Verfügungstruppe section.

In 1937, a black army-issue uniform was introduced for armoured vehicle crews. The uniform was also issued to members of SS-VT and LSSAH armoured units, who would attach the appropriate SS insignia. By 1940, the number of SS armoured units had increased greatly and as such, the SS decided to produce their own version of the black panzer uniform.

The SS Panzer trousers are composed of black wool and the interior is lined with a blended rayon-cotton fabric. The front fly closes with six buttons and there is a waistband adjustment strap on each hip. The rear of the trousers is reinforced with a thick material to increase durability and prevent wear, and each trouser leg features a tie strap to hold the trouser cuff in place around the wearer’s ankle. Unlike the army-pattern trousers, the SS trousers do not have a sewn on cloth belt. In addition, the SS trousers feature two buttons, rather than one, on the flapped pockets.

The black SS uniform was not modified in any significant way until the end of the war when the amount of material used was decreased to shorten the manufacturing process. The composition and quality of the material used to manufacture the trousers may vary due to supply shortages that occurred throughout the war.