The Pattern 37 Gaiters (Cotton Strap) 1942 are genuine military surplus from the Second World War era. These gaiters, also known as anklets, were part of the British and Commonwealth military clothing and equipment system and were worn with ankle boots. Their primary purpose was to secure the lower part of the trouser leg around the boot, helping prevent loose fabric from interfering with movement and providing a practical barrier around the ankle.
Dated 1942, these gaiters represent equipment from the period when Pattern 1937 equipment was widely used by British and Commonwealth forces. They are offered as original military surplus rather than modern reproductions, making them of interest to collectors, historical displays and enthusiasts of WWII field equipment.
Features
- Genuine Pattern 37 military surplus
- Dated 1942
- Used by British and Commonwealth forces during the WWII period
- Designed for wear with ankle boots
- Helps secure trouser legs around the ankle
- Canvas strap fastening system
- Practical field clothing accessory
- Suitable for military collections and historical displays
- Original used military equipment
Specifications
Product Code: GAG006
Pattern: Pattern 1937
Date: 1942
Condition: AS NEW
Straps: Canvas
Historical Background
Pattern 1937 equipment was introduced by the British Army in 1937 and became an important part of British and Commonwealth military equipment during the Second World War. The system was designed around practical, modular equipment that could be configured according to a soldier's role. Pattern 1937 web equipment remained in British service well beyond WWII.
Gaiters or anklets were worn with ankle boots as part of the period field uniform. They helped keep the lower trouser leg secured around the boot and provided protection around the ankle area. Wartime examples were used throughout the British and Commonwealth forces, including Australian personnel. The Australian War Memorial holds examples of Australian Army 1937 Pattern gaiters dating from the WWII period.
The 1942 date places these gaiters firmly within the WWII production and service period. As genuine used surplus, individual examples can show the signs of previous military use expected from equipment that is more than 80 years old. This makes them particularly suitable for collectors, re-enactors, historical displays and anyone interested in original Commonwealth military equipment.
The Pattern 37 Gaiters provide an authentic piece of WWII-era field equipment with a direct connection to the clothing and equipment systems used by British and Commonwealth servicemen.