All branches of the German military along with paramilitary organizations such as the RAD and the Hitler youth emphasized physical fitness and sports. When engaged in these athletic pursuits, men wore specific sports shoes. The shoes themselves broadly resemble modern ballet slipper though made of somewhat thicker leather on both the soles and the uppers. Though intended for athletics these shoes often made it to German camps and even close to combat zones. Soldiers can often be seen wearing them when sitting around a zelt camp or commonly in barracks while cleaning and polishing their other footwear. 

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These photographs were taken from a number of books,  online sources, and auction sites.  They are presented here for educational purposes.