Authentic reproduction of the WWI U.S. Army AEF “Pershing” Boots, officially the 1917 Trench Boot. Constructed from rough-out leather with hobnailed sole, reinforced toe cap, and 5–6 eyelet lacing — the rugged footwear that carried Doughboys through the Great War.
The U.S. Army 1917 Trench Boot, commonly known as the Pershing Boot after General John J. Pershing, was the standard-issue footwear of the American Expeditionary Forces in France. Designed to endure the harsh conditions of trench warfare, these boots became one of the most iconic elements of the Doughboy uniform.
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Historical Accuracy: Reproduced from original 1917 Quartermaster specifications and surviving examples.
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Material: Heavy, natural brown rough-out leather for durability in mud and wet conditions.
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Design Features:
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5–6 eyelet lace-up closure for a secure fit
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Reinforced toe cap for strength and protection
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Thick leather sole with hobnails and heel irons for grip and wear resistance
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Taller ankle support compared to earlier U.S. service shoes
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Issued From 1917–1918: First widely distributed to AEF troops shipping to France, replacing lighter shoes unsuitable for trench conditions.
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Comfort vs. Durability: While tough, the hobnails and iron fittings gave the boots a distinctive sound on cobblestones and helped prevent early wear in the field.
These Pershing Boots are ideal for reenactors, collectors, museums, and film productions, faithfully capturing the look and feel of the American Doughboy on the Western Front.
