At the beginning of the war, the different types of cavalry (Hussar, Uhlan, Kuirassier, Dragoner, Schwere-Reiter, Chevauleger et al.) were issued different styles of riding boots based on traditional ideas of military uniforming. However, the German Army was quick to realize that the wide variety of boot types was both logistically complicated and there was no functional need to maintain several different styles of riding boots. Furthermore, by the late 19th Century, cavalry pretty much functioned in the same manner in spite of their traditional designations.
The German Army’s solution was the introduction of the 1915 Pattern Universal Riding Boot. There were two versions, one Prussian and one Bavarian with very little difference. Below is the Bavarian version:
The 1915 Bavarian Universal Riding Boot; From Jürgen Kraus.
And the Prussian version:
The 1915 Prussian Universal Riding Boot
Both patterns of boots were taller than their infantry counterparts. The essential differences were that the Bavarian boot was level along the boot tops while the tops on the Prussian boot was angled. Also, the Bavarian boots had leather projections, or shelves, at the tops of the rear heel to rest the spurs on. Boots were issued both in medium brown and black.
This is a distinctive uniform item that sets us apart from our infantry brethren.
Horrido!
KB 2 Chevauleger Regiment 