Soviet Army Uniform Guide

Soviet army uniforms were in use starting in 1922, and were used until the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991. Although they changed and evolved throughout the years, some of the basics have remained true.

Types

During the winter, Soviet army soldiers wore Telogreika, a special type of uniform consisting of khaki quilted trousers and jackets. This was in use until the 1960s, when wool jackets were introduced and then eventually paired with the Afghanka.

Facts

Soviet army soldiers were issued Valenki, a type of felt boot worn under galoshes and meant to protect feet during the sub-zero Russian winters.

Accesories

The Ushanka, a type of fur, sheepskin or leather cap with ear flaps, was first issued to Russian soldiers during WWII and later copied by the German and Finnish armies.

Features

In the 1980s, the Soviet Army introduced a field uniform known as Afghanka, which consists of a jacket (with an detachable liner for winter use), trousers and cap, all in khaki colors with a large number of pockets. Variants in other shades, including camouflage, were introduced about a decade later.

History

In the early times of the Soviet Army (as far back as 1943), the government issued uniforms that clearly resembled Tsarist clothing and included details such as shoulder pads and fringed epaulette (shoulder straps).