Original German WWII Luftwaffe Air Force Fur-Lined Sheepskin Winter Parka with Faded RBNr. Marking

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. 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. After the winter of 1941/42 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 the solutions reached, a heavy Sheepskin Leather parka, which would often be combined with some type of fur or insulated cap. The parka definitely looks to be factory made, and is made from sheepskin leather with fur / fleece still attached. Originally, the front closure featured three "toggle" fasteners on the right side meeting three loops on the left side, however the lowest toggle is no longer present. There is also a button and strap for the collar to support it in the up position. It features two large waist pockets, closed with the same toggles and loops, and on the interior we can see that the lining of the left pocket has faded RBRN. national business number markings, so this is definitely German WWII military production.

Overall condition is very good, especially considering the age and amount of service it probably saw. There is a good amount of wear to the collar, which shows some of the wool insulation inside. There are also small period repairs at the ends of the sleeves and other locations. These were very popular after the war, so there is unfortunately no way to tell when the wear occurred.

A great Luftwaffe winter parka, ready to display, or maybe even wear!

Approximate Measurements
Collar to shoulder: 10"
Shoulder to sleeve: 26”
Shoulder to shoulder: 16"
Chest width: 24”
Hip: 30"
Front length: 31"