History

The first pattern Anorak was manufactured in limited quantities and was only issued to troops serving in Norway and parts of Poland during the winter season. Troops were required to return the anoraks to clothing depots for repair and alterations.

In 1943, the Anorak was issued to personnel of the 1. SS-Panzer-Division ‘Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler’ and the 2. SS-Panzer-Division ‘Das Reich’ during the Battle of Kharkov.

The first pattern is a pull-over design that was manufactured out of waterproof rayon or canvas and fully lined with fur. The Anorak could fit over a soldier’s uniform and the hood was large enough to accommodate a helmet. The first pattern design proved unpopular with troops as it was very heavy and had poor ventilation, making the wearer uncomfortably warm.

In 1944, the pull-over design was discontinued and the second pattern button-up Anorak was introduced.

This second pattern Anorak is full length and similar to the first pattern, it is fully lined with rabbit fur. The exterior of the coat is waterproof and it is large enough to accommodate a full uniform. The waist of the coat is cinched, ventilation slits are located under the armpits, and the fur-lined hood is large enough to fit a helmet underneath. The straight-cut sleeves of the coat are non-adjustable and the cuffs are designed to fit snugly around the wearer’s wrist. The front of the coat features four large flapped pockets, which are closed with a single button.

Despite the fact that the first pattern Anorak was discontinued, it was worn by soldiers throughout the war. Both the first and second pattern Anoraks were worn without any insignia.

The colour of the Anorak varied from field grey to slate grey to olive green, and the pelts used on the interior often did not match.

For camouflage during the winter, a white rayon smock was worn over the Anorak. The Waffen-SS did not provide personnel with white helmet covers.