1918 straight leg trousers

[teabag1927]

Hey guys.

I have a question regarding these trousers. What's the dope with them? Were they worn concurrently with the breeches in 1918? Were they a specialty item? are the correct for a late '18 infantry impression? Thanks.

[oskar2ndchev]

Because of their late introduction, they're a lot more rare than the more common 1912 pattern breeches. Personally, I wouldn't use them because it limits your impression to late 1918. Also, at least for the 364th, I have not come accross any documened examples.

Basically, they were designed in response to feedback that the 1912 breeches were too tight around the calves, especially in the damp/wet conditions found on the Western Front. They were also more simple to manufacture, hence the decision to start phasing them in. However, with the Armistace, that didn't get too far. If the war had extended into 1919, you would have seen them more.

[teabag1927]

THanks for the quick response. I had taken them into consideration for my kit on account of I have never found a pair of breeches that fit around my calves. I fit every other original thing (im not a huge guy) with the exception of 1912 breeches.

[oskar2ndchev]

If you're planning on reenacting with us, it's probably a better idea to get a pair of reproduction breeches- uniforms take a beating out there plus you can get something that fits and doesn't look 90 years old. :-)

[teabag1927]

Schipper Fabrik would be a good choice i take it? To they cut their calves in such a way as to allow a good fit? Or perhaps there's another vendor?

[aefstraggler]

Both Schipperfabrik and Great War Militaria make uniforms from measurements you provide
(vs. off the shelf/rack).
GWM - about $580 (with buttons) - for tunic and breeches - Scipper $425 for a "complete"
package - i.e. w/shirt, puttees, etc.
So - if you provide proper measurements (and if they follow them) - you should get a uniform
that fits.
Not sure of the current delivery time from either.

[oskar2ndchev]

I have breeches from both Schipper and Great War and both fit fine (I have calves that are 17 1/2 inches). Both do a very good job. Schipper's delivery time runs about 12 weeks, Great War I'm not sure about, I haven't ordered from them in a long time.