BACKGROUND: Besides the helmet, the tall marching boot is probably one of the most instantly recognizable items of the German military. However the German concern with leather shortages was evident as early as September 1939 when issue of the traditional tall leather marching boot was restricted to personnel serving in the field. Regulations in November 1939 shortened the tall leather marching boot in an attempt to conserve leather. In early 1940 the lace-up ankle boots were first introduced as a further leather conservation method and by 1941 the ankle boot was issued to all new recruits in place of the marching boot. By 1943 with escalating leather shortages the gaiter’s and lace up ankle boots were issued to all replacement personnel and manufacture of the tall marching boots was discontinued altogether.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Smooth, blackened leather construction, lace-up ankle boots are roughly 12cm tall from the top of the heel to the top edges of the ankle section. The boots have a stitched on, dual layer, tapering, central vertical spine to the reverse. The foot portion of the boots are constructed of two leather panels with a small forward panel and a larger rear panel covering the heel area. Each boot has eight pair of metal lace-up closure grommets and come with laces. The boots have stacked leather heels and forward soles with toe cap. Markings are visible to the soles "43" which is also visible to the inner foot section. The foot measures approximately 30cm.