South African Defence Force Repro 1st Pattern Para Smock

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On sale: ~~$80.00~~ $64.00

Part Number: SADF1PATPARA

Availability: In Stock.

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Country of Origin: South Africa

In 1961, 15 members of the newly formed South African Defence Force completed paratrooper training at RAF Abington in the United Kingdom, becoming the first South African paratroopers since the Second World War. These men would form the nucleus of what became the 1st Battalion, 44 Parachute Brigade. Recognizing the need to "South Africanize" the largely British issued kit, the South African Defence Force quickly got to work on developing distinctive uniforms for their paratroopers, including a derivative of the iconic Denison Jump Smocks that qualified paratroopers were entitled to wear.

The result, was a 1st Pattern variant of the British Army half-zip Denison Smock, with the noted features of a sand tan colour, and the removal of the "donkey tail" paratrooper flap. Issued in relatively low numbers to the brand new South African Paratroopers, it was worn alongside a dizzying array British and modified South African jump smocks. This 1st Pattern variant was eventually superceded by a 2nd Pattern, which included the previously removed paratrooper flap, and a full zip configuration. This development ultimately led to the 1st Pattern variants of the Nutria Brown "Slangvel" smocks, which became the iconic Paratrooper jacket of the South African Border Wars.

Given the low issue numbers, and existence as a stopgap between British Denison and South African Slangvel smocks, originals of the 1st Pattern SADF issue para smocks are near impossible to find. However, their timeless utility, unique history and truly African flare make it a much wanted collector's piece. After decades of obscurity and many months of R&D, we are bringing back this incredible piece of kit to market!

Features:

100% cotton sand tan construction, with reinforced collar
1-to-1 replication of main features based off original examples
Modified slim full zipper as seen in several original period photographs
2x snap-buttoned breast pockets
2x snap buttoned outward slanted hip pockets
Elbow reinforcement, stitched as per original specification
Buttoned cuffs

Sizing Guide:

	Fit Guide	Garment measurements when laid flat
Small	36-38" chest, approximately 5'7 height	42" across chest, 27.5" overall length, 24" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 19" armpit to sleeve cuff
Medium	38-40" chest, approximately 5'9 height	46" across chest, 28.5" overall length, 24.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 19.5" armpit to sleeve cuff
Large	40-42" chest, approximately 5'11 height	50" across chest, 29.5" overall length, 25" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 20" armpit to sleeve cuff
XL	42-44" chest, approximately 6'1 height	54" across chest, 30.5" overall length, 25.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 21" armpit to sleeve cuff
2XL	43-46" chest, approximately 6'3+ height	56" across chest, 31" overall length, 26.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 21" armpit to sleeve cuff
3XL	45-48" chest, approximately 6'3+ height	Garment measurement 58" across chest, 31" overall length, 26.5" shoulder to sleeve cuff, 21" armpit to sleeve cuff

All prices are in United States Dollars (USD). We ship internationally!

South African Defence Force Repro 1st Pattern Para Smock

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