Notes
Puttees such as these were a standard-issue uniform piece during World War I. Worn on the lower legs, they were intended to provide ankle support, keep pants tight to the leg to prevent snagging, and protect against rough terrain while on the march. In the trenches, they were useful for shedding mud, keeping the lower legs warm, and preventing muck from spilling into soldiers' boots. However, puttees swelled when wet, which constricted blood flow to the lower extremities and contributed to trench foot. They were adopted to fulfill the function of high leather boots at a much lower price point, making them ideal for outfitting the massive armies of World War I.