Royal Flying Corps Thigh-Length Boots

Thigh-length sheepskin flying boots – or 'fug boots' – helped to keep First World War pilots and observers warm in aircraft with open cockpits. They were particularly necessary when flying at high altitude.

In 1916, specially designed flying boots were introduced to help overcome the cold which aircrew flying over the Western Front had to endure. Made of sheepskin, the tops of these thigh-length boots were attached to the wearer's uniform and straps at the knee and instep ensured they fitted closely. They were well received by pilots and observers, who gave them the name 'fug boots' because of their extreme warmth.