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.

The predecessor organization of the Waffen-SS, the SS-Verfügungstruppe, entered the Second World War wearing the M36 uniform, and all future Waffen-SS uniforms were simplifications of this standard model.

In 1942, the Waffen-SS and Wehrmacht introduced a new uniform to limit production time and preserve materials. The new model of trouser, which replaced the M36 and M40 patterns, were commonly referred to as ”Keilhosen” (stretch trousers) because they looked similar to civilian ski trousers, which were often manufactured out of stretchy fabric.

The trousers were designed with tapered legs for wear with ankle boots and canvas gaiters. At the end of each leg, there were delicate tie straps that were used to tighten the pant cuff. The trousers featured a fly with five buttons and had a flapped inset watch pocket on the right leg. A small metal hoop was sewn under the waistband to attach the pocket watch. On each side of the trousers, there were adjustment bands to tighten and loosen the waistline. Four thick belt loops were used to secure the wearer’s belt in place. The interior of the trousers was lined with a blended cotton-rayon fabric. The type and colour of the fabric used to the line the trousers varied throughout the war.