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.

Following the occupation of Italy in 1943, the Germans confiscated large amounts of raw materials, including a wide variety of fabrics.

The M43 trousers were effectively the same as the M42 trousers, except they were largely composed of Italian wool and gabardine, instead of German wool. Italian wool fabrics are dark green-grey, which can serve as an indicator of late war production.

Officer grade uniforms, overcoats, and headgear are usually composed of Italian gabardine. Enlisted rank uniforms are largely composed of Italian wool.

The M43 trousers were designed with tapered legs for wear with ankle boots and canvas gaiters. At the end of each leg, there are delicate tie straps that were used to secure the pant leg inside low boots. The trousers feature a fly with six buttons and there is a flapped inset watch pocket on the right leg. The use of a paper button on the watch pocket is typical of late war construction. A small metal hoop was sewn under the waistband to attach the pocket watch. On each side of the trousers, there is an adjustment band to tighten and loosen the waistline. Four thick belt loops are used to secure the wearer’s belt in place. Each belt loop features either an aluminium or Bakelite button. The interior of the trousers is lined with a blended cotton-rayon fabric with a high rayon content. The type and colour of the fabric used to the line the trousers varied throughout the war.