When Were Puttees Invented?

The word puttee, however, is derived from the Hindu patti, meaning “bandage” or “strip of cloth.” Such puttees were first worn by members of the Anglo-Indian army in the late 19th century.

Why did they stop using Puttees?

Puttees generally ceased to be worn as part of military uniform during World War II. Reasons included the difficulty of quickly donning an item of dress that had to be wound carefully around each leg, plus medical reservations regarding hygiene and varicose veins.

Why did British soldiers wear Puttees?

Puttees are strips of cloth, which were worn wrapped around the lower leg in a spiral pattern, from the ankle up to below the knee. They provide ankle support and prevent debris and water from entering the boots or pants.

David Miller

David Miller

Executive Financial & Market Analyst

David Miller brings 15 years of experience in global economics, personal finance strategy, and market dynamics. He specializes in turning complex economic trends into actionable insights for everyday readers.