Water proof motorcycle trousers

Place Oceania: Australia
Accession Number REL32650
Collection type Heraldry
Object type Uniform
Physical description Rubberised fabric
Maker V450
Place made Australia
Date made 1943
Conflict Second World War, 1939-1945
Description

Pair of khaki motorcycle trousers made from rubberised waterproof fabric. The trousers, which are designed to be worn over ordinary trousers, have deep side splits at each hip which are fastened at the waist with a brown plastic button. Two belt lengths are sewn into the back of the trousers and are fastened over the hips with a chrome buckle to improve the fit. The back of the trousers are slightly higher than the front and a white maker's label is sewn inside. The trousers have front pleats and are tapered to the ankles, extending out at the front to cover the top of the shoe. A fabric strap which fits under the instep of the shoe is sewn into the bottom of each leg. An expanding gusset is sewn into the outer lower leg and is fastened by three brown plastic buttons.

History / Summary

These waterproofed trousers were worn over regular uniform in inclement weather by motorcyclists such as despatch riders. The uniform also comprised a long matching jacket and gloves worn with a round helmet. The helmet could be worn with a waterproofed cover which extended over the back of the neck and around the throat.

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