History

From 1925 to 1934, the SS was subordinate to the SA (Sturmabteilung) and its members wore SA pattern leather belts and cross straps. After the SS became a separate organisation, its members continued to wear a cross strap with the standard black SS uniform.

Following RZM standardisation in 1934, the black leather cross strap became available in a lined and unlined version. The lined version featured an underside that was covered with black cloth.

The fittings on the cross strap were originally manufactured out of nickel-silver, but by the late 1930s, it became more common to find cross straps with aluminium fittings. The fittings may have a dimpled or smooth finish.

RZM approved straps feature RZM/SS markings on the metal fittings and leather. The markings include the manufacturer's RZM number and the last two digits of the production year ex: ‘SS 155/38 RZM’ (for Assmann & Söhne, 1938).

Wear of the cross strap was discontinued in May of 1940.