Blighty Militaria

Tel: 07729 917 773
Email: blightymilitaria@gmail.com
Web site: https://www.blightymilitaria.com/

Original RAF Private Purchase 1936 Pattern Flying Boots - Size 11

SOLD

Code: 54155



A pair of original RAF 1936 pattern private purchase flying boots in a rare large size 11. 

This pattern of boot was introduced before the Second World War and was the most prolific pattern of flying boot to be used during the early part of the Second World War. Many period photographs from the Battle for France and the Battle of Britain show this pattern in use and they are now synonymous with the period. They were produced for the Air Ministry as well as by private companies and could be purchased by airmen. Private purchase examples such as these are often thought to be of higher quality than their issue counterparts.

The difference between these boots and issue boots is very limited. The black leather uppers of the private purchase boots usually have a pebbled finish which is the main distinguishing difference although these boots have the same smooth finish found on issue boots. All the other details are the same including the sheepskin lining, the opening at the top of the boot which fastens with a metal plated buckle and leather strap and the seam to seam stitching between the shoe and the upper - something not seen on post-war manufactured boots as it was an expensive process. 

The soles are the original leather soles which show some signs of wear and age. The heels are original 'Goodyear' branded rubber examples and show some signs of wear. 

Inside both boots are two leather pull tabs which are made from the same black coloured leather used for the boot uppers. These are usually marked with size and maker details although this pair are devoid of any such markings. They are a size 11 and notably larger than a size 10 pair which are also currently in stock. The soles measure 12 7/8" long and 4 1/2" at the widest point.

The boots are in good condition for their age and display very well. Overall they are solid with some limited signs of wear and age. There is some loss of sheepskin which is visible around the top although this does not overly detract from how the boots display. There is more missing fur to the insoles which may have been worn away. Overall the boots look to be solid but please take time to study the pictures and bear in mind that they are a vintage pair of boots with some small flaws commensurate with age.

A nice pair of original 1936 pattern boots in a very hard to find large size!