Reitstiefel mystery

**Neil Hever** · 08-11-2010, 10:33 PM

This pair of Reitstiefel marked Helix Reitstiefel für den Kenner and Grand Prix 1937 may or may not be WWII vintage. Additionally, they are marked 41 6 and have Continental rubber heels. I recognize Continental as a brand that shows up on WWII vintage boots. WWII or not they certainly look great. My main question is about the inserts - they are marked H and V - I assume for right and left. The only language I can find in Europe using these letters is Swedish - Höger = right and Vänster equals left. Apparently, Swedish was also spoken in parts of Finland. I'm wondering how these inserts may have wound up inside German boots. BTW, they were purchased at garage sale for $10.00! And yes - they fit.

**Espenlaub Militaria** · 08-11-2010 10:33 PM

We also buy and trade your items and full collections!

**JPhilip** · 08-12-2010, 08:40 PM

Hello,
They could be civilian period or postwar.
The markings look like they are a reminder of a Grand Prix won by the brand in 1937. Who knows when the inserts were put in the boots, it could have been done at any time by the previous owner, a collector, a dealer, 10, 20, 30 or 40 years ago or wartime....if the boots are wartime of course...i'm not convinced they are
Thanks

**Neil Hever** · 08-12-2010, 08:48 PM

I agree - they seem to be civilian and post war too. If someone has more information on Helix brand boots perhaps I can date them. I will guess the inserts are Swedish. They sure present well so I'm pleased to have them.