What did Canadian soldiers wear during World War 2?

Answer 1

The standard uniform for all ranks of the Canadian Army during the Second World War was Serge Battledress. Adopted by the British in 1937 and by Canada in 1939, it was worn on parades, in the field as combat dress and worn off duty as a walking out dress. Canadian and British made battledresses were generally similar in design however there were major differences in materials and construction. British battledress was made of a brownish wool serge and was closely cut in order to save on material. Canadian battledress was greener than the British and was cut fuller in the waist and shoulders. The blouse had two breast pockets and 5 concealed buttons down the front. Initially, the collar was closed with two small hooks and eyes, but in a version adopted in 1942, the collar is closed with a tab and button. All buttons were pressed steel, except for plastic (rubber) epaulette buttons on early blouses.

The main features of the trousers were a large map pocket on the left leg and a small pocket for the field dressing on the front right hip. Three buttons on the outside of the trouser waist were used to fasten the trousers to the blouse in order to prevent the blouse riding up in the back. Six buttons for the attachment of braces were sewn on the inside of the waist.

Initially, all ranks were to wear the collar of the blouse closed, however it was not long before officers were permitted to wear the blouse collar open, showing a shirt collar and necktie. Blouse collars were often lined with battldress material or khaki cotton. Until late 1944, Other Ranks were not permitted to wear the collar open, even off duty.

Answer 2

Winter clothing was wool and the summer garb was cotton.

Answer 3

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