A reversible camouflage jumper that provides effective concealment for
its wearer at all seasons is used by the German SS (Schutzstaffel) troops, the
elite guard of the National Socialist party. The jumper is multicolored, being a
mottled green on one side and a brownish variation on the reverse side. A helmet
cover and visored cap, made of cloth printed with the same camouflage pattern, are
issued with the jumper.
This camouflage clothing has no geometric lines in its pattern (see photograph
below); instead there is an informal effect that blends well with the lights
and shadows of a natural background. The green design is intended for use in the
spring and summer against live foliage, while the brown design on the reverse side
is intended for protective concealment in fall and winter against a background of
dead leaves, twigs, branches, soil, gravel, etc.
It is evident that the jumper is intended to serve as an outer wind-proof
and water-repellant garment as well as a camouflage garment. There are two
slash pocket inlets which are designed for use in conjunction with regular pockets
of the undergarment. An elastic insert in the waist and cuff bands eliminates the
necessity for outer hardware, leather or webbing straps which might create sounds
by coming in contact with trees and other objects.
The jumper fits over the head and fastens approximately one-half way down
the front with a lace-up arrangement. There is no collar to the garment as the
field blouse normally appears above it. The facing around the neck band merely
serves as a reinforcement.
The jumper is not practical for use in tropical zones because of its weight, 1 pound
and 9 ounces. Apparently it was designed for use in temperate zones.