Uniforms & Equipment
The Strathcona Boot
Pair of Strathcona Boots
Traditionally, the cavalry wore heavy knee-high boots that afforded
protection against sword blows in battle. These boots were generally
stiff and unwieldy, and not conducive to walking or marching. The
conditions of service in the South African War, where mounted infantry
usually fought on foot, brought this problem to a head. The British,
therefore, developed a high leather boot with a sole that was intended
for walking, and a laced instep that provided the wearer with greater
flexibility and ease of movement. For the most part, however, these
boots were worn by the officers, with the rank and file adopting the
ankle-boots and puttees used by the infantry.
Strathcona's Horse developed its
own variant of this type of boot for its service in South Africa.
Produced by the Slater Shoe Company of Montreal, this boot had a laced
instep made more flexible by the introduction of a large gusset. In
addition, there was another gusset on the upper calf that was loosened
or clinched by an adjustable strap to improve the fit around the
leg.
Perhaps in keeping with its image as an elite unit, the Strathconas
issued these boots to all members of the regiment, and not just to the
officers. Although, officially, they were to be worn only for walking
out and for parades, it is clear from photographic evidence that they
were frequently used on active operations. Many members of the
Strathconas were former members of the North-West Mounted Police,
including the unit's commanding officer,
Sam Steele. One of the war's
lasting legacies was that the boots were taken into wear by the
North-West Mounted Police, and they remain today one of the more
distinctive components of the dress uniform of the Royal Canadian
Mounted Police.