*German, WWII, SS Officer’s High Riding Boots – Dated September 1936, Early SS-Style Runic Roundels*
An extremely scarce pre-war pair of tall black leather officer’s riding boots (Dienststiefel), constructed in fine polished calf and fully dated “10/9/36” to the interior lining. The date is flanked by two circular factory inspection stamps containing faint twin-rune motifs — a form consistent with early SS-style or RZM contract roundels seen on certain pre-1939 leather goods supplied to the Verfügungstruppe and Allgemeine-SS.
The boots feature the distinctive lozenge-and-loop outer-shaft stitching typical of privately purchased officer footwear of the mid-1930s. Each retains its original woven black-and-tan herringbone cotton pull straps, pale leather interior, and period-correct pegged and stitched soles with nailed horseshoe heel irons. These details indicate high-quality private manufacture rather than later issue production.
Measurements: Height: 41.5 cm Sole length: 29.2 cm (approx. EU 45 / UK 10.5)
Historical Note:
These boots date from 1936 — the formative period of the Schutzstaffel before the establishment of the Waffen-SS. Officers at that time were required to purchase uniform items privately through RZM-approved suppliers. Early SS contract leatherwork occasionally bore circular inspection marks with stylised twin-rune motifs similar to those seen here, indicating production for or under SS procurement standards rather than Army (Heer) Waffenamt inspection.
By 1940 such privately made boots were replaced by simplified issue patterns, making early dated examples with identifiable runic factory marks extremely uncommon.
*Condition*
Both boots remain structurally sound with supple leather showing age-softening and minor surface cracking along the rear seams and top edges. The black finish retains a deep, original sheen with light scuffs and flaking consistent with service wear. The left boot retains both original woven black-and-tan pull tabs, while the right boot retains one, the other detached but present loose inside. Interior linings are clean and intact, with the “10/9/36” date and twin roundel stamps visible though softly struck. Original pegged leather soles and nailed horseshoe heel irons remain fitted, showing moderate period wear but no resole or replacement. Stitching is tight throughout. Overall, a well-preserved early pair showing honest age and strong original character.
Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMAOOXBOO_6535216776
