BACKGROUND: The severe cold encountered on the Russian front in the winter of 1941/42 found the Germans completely unprepared not only in heat retaining cold weather garments but also snow camouflage garments. This resulted in numerous, hastily improvised and makeshift heat retaining and snow camouflage items being utilized including everything from civilian winter clothing to white bed sheets. After the winter of 1941/42 the Oberkommando des Wehrmacht, (High Command of the Armed Forces), recognized the need for heavier winter clothing and testing began in the spring of 1942 to develop suitable garments. Numerous winter garments and headgear were developed and issued and included assorted warmth retaining, toques, fur caps, hoods and ear protectors. These assorted pieces of protective winter headgear were issued to EM/NCO personnel for the winter season, (September 15TH to April 15TH), with other winter garments and were to be returned to the units storage depot at the end of the season for storage, repair and cleaning to be reissued the following September. Of Note: The ear protectors proved to be unpopular as they restricted hearing and as a result were generally only utilized by second line troops.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Adjustable metal headband with wool covered ear muffs. Show typical usage and wear. Unmarked.