History

In 1943, the Waffen-SS issued troops with a new winter clothing set, which included a parka and protective trousers.

All parts of the uniform were made from two protective layers of windproof material with a wool-rayon lining. The uniforms feature an SS camouflage pattern on one side, and plain white on the other to serve as snow camouflage. The buttons on the camouflage side are metal, while the buttons on the white side are white.

The fly of the trousers is cut at an angle to prevent a draft, and later versions feature an additional fly flap to increase wind-proofing, as well as knee reinforcement patches. The end of each trouser features a vent and adjustment laces to tighten the cuff. Both hips feature a pocket with a square flap and a single button. Soldiers were provided with accompanying cloth suspenders.

Most of the uniforms that are encountered feature ‘Oakleaf’ or ‘Blurred Edge’ camouflage patterns, although some can also be found in ‘Dot’ camouflage schemes.

In 1944, similar garments made from captured Italian camouflage were issued to troops. Some of these garments were reversible and others were lined with material such as fur.