Code: 55494
A scarce pair of original 1949 dated Canadian experimental pattern windproof trousers made by 'S. S. Holden Ltd.
These trousers were part of an experimental pattern of clothing which was trialed by the Canadian Army in the late 1940s alongside the X-50 and X-51 parka. They are made from a olive coloured tight weave cotton twill and are a cross between a windproof trouser and a combat trouser. They are designed to be worn as over-trousers in the same way as windproof trousers made during the Second World War were. They feature a high rise, wide leg and drawstring at the waist like windproof trousers but have more sophisticated pockets. The hip pockets fasten with buttons and feature a turn back underneath the flap as illustrated in picture 7. This is a common feature on British parkas and smocks from the same period. Cargo pockets are fitted to the side of each leg and there are reinforcement sections to the knee and seat. Ankle tabs are located to the bottom of each leg and fasten with metal donut buttons as were commonly used on Canadian military clothing during the 1940s. More of these buttons are found to the fly.
Inside the trousers the original label is still present and bears the size of 'large', the manufacture year of 1949 and the maker's name of 'S. S. Holder Ltd'. Cotton tape loops are fitted around the waist which can be used to hang the trousers of the braces of trousers worn underneath this pair.
The trousers are a large size and are cut to be worn oversize. When laid flat they measures -
Waist - 21 1/2"
Rise - 15 1/2"
Rear rise - 42"
Inside leg - 29 1/2"
Cuff - 11"
The trousers are in good condition for their age with some signs of wear and use. There is some wear/damage to the drawcord at the waist and a small hole to the left leg as illustrated in picture 8. Overall they display well and look to be very wearable but please take time to study the pictures before purchasing and bear in mind that they are a vintage, pre-worn item which may have small flaws commensurate with age.
A rare pair of late 1940s experimental trousers with some excellent details.
