The US Paratrooper Gloves are a fine reproduction of the well-known American WW2 jump gloves most commonly associated with US Airborne troops. This model is recognised by its close fit, supple leather, and distinctive wrist strap with metal buckle, giving it an immediately authentic look for an American paratrooper impression. Delware Trading’s product page identifies these gloves by their official name “Gloves, Horsehide, Riding” and links them to use by the 82nd Airborne Division, 101st Airborne Division, and also the US Rangers.
These gloves work especially well for re-enactment, display, and a well-finished airborne impression where small details matter. Their look fits neatly with early- and mid-war American paratrooper equipment and adds that extra layer of character without appearing overly bulky or heavy.
Subtiel advies
These gloves pair very well with a US Airborne jump uniform, a correctly configured helmet, an airborne scarf, and other personal equipment associated with paratroopers or Rangers. For a convincing impression, it is worth matching the gloves to the correct jacket, helmet setup, and period details, because those small elements often shape the overall look.
Historische Context
Historically, these gloves were not originally designed as dedicated paratrooper gloves, but as riding gloves. Soldier of Fortune describes this model as the first pattern with the wrist buckle and notes that it was originally designed and issued to cavalry troops. It was later adopted by airborne troops as hand protection, particularly against the friction and impact of parachute risers during jumps.
The term “horsehide riding gloves” was also an official military designation. U.S. wartime government records list procurement contracts for “gloves, horsehide, riding, unlined,” while Quartermaster Corps history notes that substitute specifications in materials such as goatskin and treated cowhide were later developed because of wartime material pressures. That gives this type of glove not only visual appeal, but also a solid place within the wider story of wartime American equipment development.
