Circa 1940s, a British Army 'Camouflage Windproof Trousers'.
A special acquisition.
Originally issued primarily to infantry scouts and snipers, this particular example saw service with the British Army's elite Special Air Service (SAS).
The Special Air Service is a specialist unit trained in covert operations—infiltration and sabotage of key enemy installations such as communications and supply lines in mechanised modern warfare.
Despite the 'Air' in its name, the SAS is in fact an Army unit. The designation originated during World War II, conceived for airborne operations behind enemy lines.
What distinguishes this example most strikingly is its singular camouflage pattern and the exceptional quality of its fabric—reminiscent of Ventile cotton.
Introduced to the British Army in 1942, the 'Windproof' pattern emerged as a variation of the early Denison smock brushstroke camouflage.
Designed primarily for use in Northern Europe and produced using roller printing, the pattern is characterised by brushstroke elements in dark brown, brown, pink tan, and olive green.
Issued as a lightweight two-piece infantry oversuit, this pattern was intended chiefly for infantry scouts and snipers during World War II, as noted. The Special Air Service made particular use of it, and the pattern remained in service until the 1970s.
Surplus stocks were also supplied to the French government, who issued the suits to combat units during the First Indochina War.
As this example was engineered as an overgarment to shield against wind and moisture, it employs a remarkably dense cotton gabardine fabric, evoking the characteristics of Ventile cotton.
Drawcord adjustment at the waist, a large pocket positioned only on the left thigh, hem adjustment tabs—a piece that exemplifies the refined design sensibility of the British Army, seemingly perfected from inception.
Equipped with drawcord at the waist and adjustment tabs at the hem, this two-way silhouette allows for variation depending on mood and circumstance. Adjust as you wish and enjoy the piece accordingly.
Among European military garments, this example occupies a place of singular distinction in its camouflage. Beyond its rarity, it is simply a handsome piece from a fashion perspective—designed to be worn without hesitation.
The size marking is absent, though it appears to correspond to approximately Japanese size M. The tag is missing, so certainty is impossible, but considering the fit, we would estimate it to be approximately No.2.
Measured against Japanese proportions, these are considered a golden size—accommodating a broad range of builds.
Among a market dominated by oversized examples, such accessible sizing has become increasingly scarce.
These overtrousers were originally designed for wear over other garments, so all examples naturally possess generous proportions.
There is visible wear—soiling, small repairs, minor holes, and patching—yet no damage substantial enough to impair wear. This piece remains very much serviceable.
The 'Windproof Trousers' bearing one of the British Army's most distinctive camouflage patterns grows scarcer each year, with prices climbing steadily. Smaller sizes in comparatively good condition are increasingly rare domestically and internationally alike.
Worthy both as wardrobe addition and as a collection piece or design reference.
A rare arrival for our shop. If you have been seeking such a piece, this opportunity merits your attention.
