Our WW1 Australian (AIF) Army Greyback Shirt is made as per the specification the standard issue undergarment wear for soldiers of the Australian Imperial Force (AIF)/ALH during the Great War. Known for its practicality and rugged comfort, it was worn beneath the wool service dress tunic and became a familiar part of the soldier’s kit both on and off the battlefield.
Material & Construction of our WW1 Australian (AIF)/ANZAC Greyback/Grayback shirt:
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Made from soft flannel wool, usually in a greyish-drab shade (hence the nickname “Greyback”).
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Designed to provide warmth in cold conditions while still being breathable.
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Coarse but serviceable fabric that withstood heavy use in the trenches.
Design Features:
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Pullover style with a short placket front opening, fastened by two or three small buttons.
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Collarless “grandad” style neckband, which sat comfortably under the service tunic.
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Long sleeves with simple cuffs.
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Loose cut, intended to be tucked into the soldier’s wool trousers for insulation.
Service Use:
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Worn directly against the skin, often with a vest underneath for added warmth.
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Soldiers were issued spare shirts, but laundering in the field was difficult, making the Greyback notorious for lice infestations.
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Despite its plain design, it became an essential and instantly recognisable part of the British soldier’s uniform.
The WW1 Greyback Shirt remains an iconic piece of Great War clothing, valued today by collectors, museums, and re-enactors seeking accuracy in portraying the daily life of the Australian/ANZAC soldier.
