French Army Khaki "Cheapeu de Brosse" Slouch Hat

This lovingly reproduced "Chapeau de Brousse" ("bush hat") is the iconic campaign slouch hat of France's wars in Indochina and Algeria!

This distinctive bush slouch hat was first adopted by French troops during the post-war period in a OD green variation for service in the Far East, and Khaki for service in French North Africa. Featuring a unique vertical reinforcement stitching, they were extremely well constructed hats that were built as to act in the same way as a proto-ripstop. The hats also feature a slouch snap button on one side, and a rudimentary extra long cotton chinstrap that can be tied down as needed. 

These hats would not only be utilized by French forces, but also reissued from captured stocks by various factions during the Vietnam War. Near identical hats would be again utilized by Katangan and Congolese troops aligned with Moise Tshombe and General Mobutu, feature a slightly altered horizontal reinforcement stitching. 

In short, this bush hat is the ultimate piece of headgear defining the "look" of a soldier during the various "small wars" in the aftermath of World War II. Even after many decades since they were first introduced, the "Cheapeu de Brosse" runs extremely well as a lightweight but extremely durable piece of kit that holds up to any modern wide brim boonie. It is an absolute must have for any Cold War enthusiast and discerning adventurer!