Puttees are a type of legging that is worn by military personnel, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. They are made of a long strip of cloth or leather that is wrapped around the lower leg, from the ankle to just below the knee. Puttees are designed to provide support and protection to the lower leg, as well as to keep debris and insects from getting inside the boots. The use of puttees can be traced back to the early 19th century, when they were first used by soldiers in the British Army. They were originally made of wool, but later versions were made of cotton, linen, or leather. Puttees were also used by soldiers in other armies, including the French, German, and Russian armies. In addition to their military use, puttees have also been used by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. They are particularly useful in rugged terrain, where they can provide extra support to the ankles and prevent injuries. Puttees are also popular among reenactors, who use them to recreate historical military uniforms. While puttees are not as commonly used today as they were in the past, they are still used by some military organizations and outdoor enthusiasts. They are also a popular item among collectors of military memorabilia.
leggings, military, support, protection, historical
Puttees are a type of leg wrapping that has been used for centuries by soldiers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. They are typically made of a long strip of cloth or leather that is wound tightly around the lower leg, from the ankle to just below the knee. The purpose of puttees is to provide support and protection to the lower leg, as well as to prevent debris and insects from entering the footwear. The use of puttees dates back to ancient times, when they were used by Roman soldiers to protect their legs from the rough terrain and harsh weather conditions. Over time, puttees became a standard part of military uniforms in many countries, including Britain, France, and the United States. During World War I, puttees were widely used by soldiers in the trenches, as they provided a simple and effective way to keep mud and water out of their boots. In addition to their military use, puttees have also been popular among hikers and mountaineers, as they provide extra support and protection for the lower leg in rugged terrain. Some outdoor enthusiasts also prefer puttees over traditional hiking boots, as they allow for greater flexibility and range of motion. Despite their long history, puttees have largely fallen out of use in modern times, as they have been replaced by more advanced forms of footwear and leg protection. However, they continue to be used by some military reenactors and historical enthusiasts, as well as by hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who prefer a more traditional approach to their gear.
leg wrapping, support, protection, military, hikers
CITATION : "James Brown. 'Puttees.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=265644 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"
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