Our production of the Don Cossack visor cap (furažka) is a replication of the distinctive headgear item of the Imperial Russian Army’s Don Cossack regiments during the First World War which were different from the rest of the Russian army who adopted field service caps by 1914.
The Furazka cap features a tall, stiffened crown, typically in bright red cloth, paired with a dark band (black wool). The black leather visor (in shiny polished, black, naturally tanned, more than 1.0 mm thick, bovine leather) and leather chinstrap gives the cap its great appearance, while the front bears the Imperial cockade in black–orange–white in hand embroidery.
Unlike the plain khaki caps of regular infantry, the Don Cossack furažka stood out with its bold colors, reflecting the heritage and traditions of the Cossack hosts. Officers’ versions were often of higher quality materials with finer finishes, while enlisted ranks wore simpler wool versions.
This cap was worn both in garrison and on campaign, often becoming a badge of honor for the Cossack soldier.
