The Norway campaign in 1940 did not exactly go well for the British (and allies), and of the many lessons leant, one was the need for appropriate clothing for fighting in the snow. The result was the 1941 British Snow Smock, one of the earliest models of the windproof style smocks. But it was not in British hands these would make their name, but in American. The swift advance of the Germans through the Ardenne forest in harsh winter of 1944 left many Americans exposed to the elements. Fortunately the British had plentiful supplies of the these smocks, many of which can be seen being worn by US infantry in period photos of the Battle of the Bulge.
Made of much heavier gaberdine cotton than their camouflage and tan cousins, these follow the same four pocket, hooded style, with a larger fit originally designed to go over uniform and equipment. Fortunately this is a small size 2, and fits like a modern medium/large.
Condition:
This is in beautiful condition for its age (and whiteness!!). The white is very bright and clear and hasn't yellowed, but there are a couple of areas of very light marking which I've included pictures of. There are no tears or rips etc. The tag is missing and a period pen marking has been applied!
Size:
- Handwritten size 2
- Fits modern medium/large
- Pit to pit 26"
- Shoulder to shoulder 25"
- Shoulder to cuff 21"
- Collar to hem 28"