Original Item: Only One Available. The severe cold encountered on the Russian front in the winter of 1941-42 found the Germans completely unprepared not only in heat retaining cold weather garments but also snow camouflage garments. This resulted in numerous, hastily improvised and makeshift heat retaining and snow camouflage items being utilized including everything from civilian winter clothing to white bed sheets. It wasn't until after the winter of 1941/42 that the Oberkommando des Wehrmacht (High Command of the Armed Forces) recognized the need for heavier winter clothing and testing began in the spring of 1942 to develop suitable garments.

This is one of those improvised examples, which is somewhat like a low profile Soviet WWII issue Ushanka cap with fold down flaps. It was made using German Waffen-SS specific "Oak Pattern A" (Eichenlaubmuster) camouflage fabric, which was in use 1943–1945. This pattern was based on the earlier Platanenmuster (Plane Tree Pattern) used 1937–1942, and was reversible, with a "spring" side and an "autumn" side. In this case the autumn side was used on the top of the front "visor" and on the exterior top of the cap. The lining is made from olive rayon or rayon cotton blend, which is the same material used for the backing of the fold down flap. The insulating material on the fold down flaps is actually captured Soviet "Fish Fur" synthetic faux wool, a relatively low quality substitute for the genuine article. It is purple in color, and definitely not in the best condition, as it was not known for being resilient.

Please note that this cap could also have been produced post war out of wartime materials. 

The cap has the standard fold down ear flaps and securing string that would be seen on later designs, and definitely is at least field workshop level craftsmanship, if not higher. It is possible that some of the captured Soviet insulation was send back to occupied Poland, where it could be used. The size is relatively small, probably around 56cm or US 7.

A very interesting piece of German WWII improvised winter gear, ready to research and display!