German, WW2, Pair of Officer’s Black Leather Riding Boots (Reitstiefel / “Officer’s Jackboots”)

*German, WW2, Pair of Officer’s Black Leather Riding Boots (Reitstiefel / “Officer’s Jackboots”)*

A pair of German World War II period officer’s black leather riding boots (Reitstiefel), privately purchased style, constructed in polished black leather with high knee-length shafts, slim tailored ankles, and rear seam construction. Each boot retains its original leather fastening strap and steel buckle at the top rim together with the original internal cloth pull-tabs. The boots are fitted with traditional leather soles incorporating iron heel and toe plates, consistent with officer-grade military riding and parade footwear of the 1930s–1940s period.

Unlike the wider and more utilitarian standard infantry marching boots (Marschstiefel), this pair represents the more elegant officer’s riding pattern, with a narrower calf profile, shaped ankle section, and refined almond-shaped toe form intended for equestrian and mounted service wear. The fitted upper shafts and buckle fasteners allowed the tops to sit flush against the leg while riding.

Approx. Measurements – Sole length: 287mm. Approximate modern size equivalent: UK Men’s Size 8.5 (EU 42.5 / US 9.5). Approximate overall height: 46cm.

History Note:
Privately purchased riding boots of this type were commonly worn by German Army officers, cavalry personnel, mounted troops, and some senior NCOs during the Second World War. Officer-grade examples were generally manufactured from finer polished leather than standard issue marching boots and were tailored for a closer fit and smarter appearance. In English-speaking collecting circles, tall German military boots are often generically referred to as “jackboots,” though the present example is more accurately classified as officer’s riding boots (Reitstiefel).

*Condition*
Good overall condition for age. Leather remains supple with age-related creasing, particularly around the ankles from historic wear. Surface scuffing, rubbing, and areas of finish loss are present around the lower foot sections and toe caps. Both top fastening straps and buckles remain present. Internal cloth pull-tabs survive inside each boot top. Soles show expected wear with oxidation and corrosion to the iron heel and toe fittings. Minor age cracking and dryness visible around the upper rims and flex points, together with general marks and abrasions throughout. No major structural damage noted. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.

JAQ#3264#GHXAHO_02062026