The German army has always been closely associated with the stereotypical “jack-boot”. Iconic pictures of Wehrmacht troops wearing the high topped boot marching through Paris have become engrained in the history books and our impressions of the Wehrmacht. However, during both the First and Second World Wars, the Wehrmacht issued various types of lower cut boots - known commonly as “ankle-boots” or “laced-boots” (Schnürschuhe). During the inter-war years, these boots took a backseat role, as the traditional jack-boot was favoured for its style and practical ability.

Nevertheless, due to the German Armies dependence upon leather, and the shortages enforced upon the supply system, the Wehrmacht was forced to begin issue of the ankle-boot in replacement of the jackboots as early as 1941 - appearing in common use during the fall of 1942.
Whilst there are many variants of the ankle-boot, GroßDeutschland 2kp members wear the M1939 style (left) of ankle-boot, due to its quality and continued production throughout the war. The initial series (M1939) of ankle-boots came with five lace holes and four pairs of hooks (speed laces), all of them covered by cellulose to avoid corrosion. The stitching was done with natural linen thread and the heels were lined with interior reinforcements. The calf height varied, but in general ranged between 14 and 16cm. The inside flap was also sewn to the hook level for added tightness, whilst the soles were also heavily waxed to help protect against water penetration.
The leather material of the boot was first produced in factory black, however later models of the M1939 were produced in a natural cow leather with a rough rawhide instep (upper left). Often the soles were pegged (lower left), whilst other variants were both pegged and stitched, or just simply stitched before being hobnailed. This provides a perfect example of the disjointed production quality experienced within the Reich.

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