Classic WW2 jump boots.

These WW2 paratrooper jump boots exhibit all of the typical features that are seen in World War Two era US jump boots.  They are brown, have the slant heel, and have the reinforcements sewn into the ankle area.  They also have the leather laces that were preferred by WW2 era paratroopers.  This is an early pair, they are dated 1942 inside.

After the US Airborne forces were first formed, it was decided that paratroopers needed a special boot to help protect their feet and ankles from the shock of a parachute landing.  The standard US infantry boot of the period was a short leather boot that did not give the required support, especially to the ankle area.  Thus, jump boots were made longer and had extra support sewn into the ankle area.  Additionally, the front of the heels were slanted to help prevent the boots from getting caught in the parachute lines as the chute deployed.

Jump boots became one of the iconic symbols of the US paratroopers during World War Two.  They were worn in combat and also worn as part of the dress uniform.