"kinky boots" Topic

Partly because I'm currently painting Prussian SYW infantry & partly because of this thread:

TMP link

I was wondering how awkward wearing thigh-high boots (or boots & gaiters which is roughly the same thing) would be for soldiers in action?

I've ever only worn fishing waders whilst fishing in Kenya & found them most uncomfortable & difficult to walk in. Are such "kinky boots" just another impractical fashion accessory the PBI were forced to wear or did they provide a practical benefit?

As with many of these things it started out practical and probably went impractical. High boots or gators help protect the lower legs from all types of vegetation but getting them thigh height seems to be a bit much.

Thigh-high boots were worn by cavalry and I assume to protect somewhat from sword cuts in melee (while on the horse). Once off the horse, they were probably a bit awkward to walk in. Gaiters fit very differently. They are less stiff and more form-fitting, more like a thicker form-fitting blue jean. Maybe not comfortable especially in a warmer climate but not as hard to walk in as the thigh-high boots. If wet from wading, I imagine they would be uncomfortable as would wet pants not to mention adversely affecting the skin if left on too long, like socks and trenchfoot.

I read once that the Horse Guards/Life Guards officers standing guard at the viewing for King George VI had trouble with the boots cutting off blood flow to their feet, which didn't happen (obviously) when they were mounted or even just moving around on foot.

Grelber

The cadets at Texas A&M wear them all the time to class. I suspect once broken in they are comfortable enough.

Few probably remember that prior to the almost universal adoption of Gore-Tex ski pants, gaiters were once quite popular with cross country skiers to keep snow out of their ski boots and shed snow from their lower legs to keep their cuffs dry. I used to use them quite a bit, not bad, very flexible, they were a bit warmer but when skiing that is desirable.

Gaiters are still popular with hikers and backpackers in rough going.