I was looking at the tamiya dak infantry set, it almost looks like that its just the regular field gray uniforms, except there painted in tropical colors, am i right?
Actually no the material was very lightweight due to the tropical conditions. The helmets were sometimes field Gray early on then painted over with sand yellow.
That makes sense, but could i technically just paint a regular German soldiers uniform in DAK colors though?
As mentioned, the material was lighter, (linen as opposed to wool) so the figures would not look as bulky - otherwise the jacket was cut the same way. Technically you could get away with painting the European uniform with tropical colours. I’m certain too the trousers were much baggier for the desert climate, or perhaps appeared that way due to the lightweight material.
The biggest difference was in foot wear, and is something that can’t be fixed with a change of paint colour. The all leather boots were replaced with canvas, with just the toe and heel in brown leather. Initially these were issued to almost knee length, with laces running up the full length. A shorter ankle boot was also designed from this. Also consider, in the desert the pants are usually worn loose and not tucked inside the footwear.
regards,
Jack
Ok, now that makes sense. Thanks for the info
Just got in from work, and consulted my main book on the subject.
To edit, Tropical wear was made from a light but durable cotton material. Also should add that DAK tunics were made to be worn open collared and had fashioned lapels, unlike the regular field grey tunic which could be buttoned all the way up.
regards,
Jack