Today let us discuss the military boots soldiers wear in ww2, especially the types and characteristics of German military boots.
During World War II, German soldiers generally wore long military boots. The most famous of them were the M1866 marching boots and the subsequently developed M39 military boots. Not only are these military boots beautifully designed, they are also practical and durable.
M1866 military boots soldiers wear in WW2
The M1866 marching boots, also known as infantry boots or “dice cups”. They were deeply loved by German soldiers from the end of the 19th century during that time. It is approximately 14-16 inches tall and is supported by cowhide or horsehide. Besides, their common colors are black and brown. Its most striking feature is that the soles are equipped with thirty to forty-five iron nails and the heels are usually fixed with a horseshoe-shaped iron plate. These designs are designed to cope with the complex and changing terrain on the battlefield.
M39 military boots soldiers wear in WW2
The M39 military boots also use a double-layer sole design and are the same height as the M1866 model. The shoe tube is long and straight, which can well protect the soldier’s lower legs from debris on the battlefield. Likewise, its sole is equipped with multiple reinforced studs for enhanced traction and wear resistance.
Design Features
The design of military boots during this period fully considered the actual needs on the battlefield. The long tube design can effectively insulate cold and damp ground. Therefore, it reduces the risk of soldiers suffering from trench foot. It can also protect feet from sharp objects in ruins. Not only that, the leather of military boots has been specially treated to be both waterproof and breathable. This also ensures the comfort of soldiers during long marches and operations. It is worth mentioning that the size and width design of German military boots are also very user-friendly. Shoe sizes are generally divided into male sizes or Paris sizes. What’e more, the widths are divided into grades 1-9 to meet the needs of different soldiers’ feet.
Military boots soldiers wear in ww2 that is not only equipment for soldiers to protect their feet, but also a symbol of their identity and a manifestation of honor. Nowadays, although the war is far behind, those static military boots have always been cherished by many military enthusiasts and collectors.