An incredibly rare deadstock dated 1942 WW2 US Army 10th Mountain Division Uniform, Consisting of The Backpack Jacket And Trousers in a tight weave cotton.
The US Army gathered experienced climbers from the “Harvard Five” climbing group, one of these members Bob Bates (Robert Bates) took the main lead to design the backpack jacket and outer uniform, the other climbers took leads in designing rations, supplies and safety equipment for the divisions troops.
The jacket features Talon zippers, Interior Backpack Struts and Rear Backpack Opening on the right hand side. The trousers are a classic period ski trousers with Talon fly zipper and cargo side pockets.
This jacket must be one of the most innovative designs in the period of WW2, you can see references in many designers work from Helmut Lang to Mandarina Duck with the built in “Jackpack jacket”, this jacket has been studied and referenced over and over in design history.
Originally activated as the 10th Light Division (Alpine) in 1943, the division was redesignated the 10th Mountain Division in 1944 and fought in the mountains of Italy in some of the roughest terrain in World War II. On 5 May 1945, the division reached Nauders, Austria, just beyond the Reschen Pass, where it made contact with German forces being pushed south by the U.S. Seventh Army. A status quo was maintained until the enemy headquarters involved had completed their surrender to the Seventh. On 6 May, 10th Mountain troops met the 44th Infantry Division of Seventh Army.
Shoulder to shoulder 19” Pit to pit 20” Sleeve length 25”” with 2” to let down Back length 33”
Waist laid flat 15” Inseam 32” Outseam 45” Rise 16” Hem width 7”
