December 7th Militaria and Aviation Auction

WWI French Aviators Leather Flight Pants

The auction will start in __ days and __ hours

Start price: $80

Estimated price: $700 - $1,400

Buyer's premium:

Description

Original World War I French Aviators Leather Flight Trousers. These trousers were necessary to protect aircrew from the extreme cold and wind exposure in the unheated cockpits of WWI aircraft.

The trousers are constructed from heavy, dark brown or black leather with a rugged patina and creasing consistent with use. They are designed in a straight-leg pattern with reinforced stitching and paneling around the knees and seat, typical of early aviation wear for comfort and durability. The waist is high, featuring a central button fly closure, though the zipper or fasteners are obscured. The rear shows a simple cinch buckle for waist adjustment, confirming their military utility design. The leather shows heavy, genuine field wear and surface distress, affirming their WWI-era origin.
The interior is lined with a simple cloth or canvas lining which is visible at the waist. Faint military stamping or sizing marks are visible on the interior fabric, common for European military issue items. The completeness of the jacket and trousers as companion pieces from this specialized branch is highly desirable.