History

In July of 1942, Waffen-SS troops were issued lace-up ankle boots (Schnürschuhe) instead of marching boots as a means to preserve material. This design of the boots was based off the design of the Gebirgsjäger (mountain troops) ankle boot.

The ankle boots were manufactured out of natural leather that was stained and polished by the wearer.

These shorter boots were worn with gaiters in the cold winter months, and with puttees in the summer. The gaiters were manufactured out of field-grey or olive green canvas and had either brown or black leather fittings and binding.

The puttees were made of elasticized cloth and featured a patent leather buckle and strap.

The ankle boots proved unpopular and many soldiers retained their marching boots for as long as possible.

These boots are also referred to as ‘low boots’.