Original Item: Only One Pair Available. This is an excellent example of a matched pair of Italian WWI era M-1912 Boots, often referred to as “low boots”. This is a rather rare pair of boots and the first set we have had to offer.

This hobnail sole is a design that emerged out of WW1. The Italian front was arguably the most hazardous terrain to fight in during the war. Many battles took place high in the Alps, soldiers crafted many innovative technologies and methods to transport men and equipment up and down the various mountainsides.

The belligerents involved devised specially designed boots to grip the terrain. The rim has the cleats, designed for climbing on ice and rough terrain, the bottom has hobnails, which actually aren't designed for traction. Various militaries used these, they are not specific to Italian or Austrian boots. Though they do provide marginal traction on rocky terrain, they are actually meant to protect the sole. It is an economic and effective method to maintain boots given the rigorous use soldiers can get out of them.

This set is in wonderful condition but do show signs of moderate wear both from service use and storage. The boots are still sound but have slight tearing along the back where the reinforced leather strip is. THe laces appear to be a much later replacement. The boots measure approximately 11 ½”from heel to toe.

The set comes more than ready for further research and display.