Jump boots are a type of combat boot designed for paratroopers featuring calf-length lacing and rigid toe caps. The style was developed in many countries simultaneously with the adoption of airborne infantry forces during World War II. Modern jump boots are earned in some countries and therefore have become a mark of achievement and distinction, mainly worn as dress and parade boots. The uppers are generally made of smooth black leather with toe-caps and heel counters that accept a high polish ("spit-shine" or "spittle-shine"). It is also a paratrooper tradition to lace jump boots in a ladder or cobweb style which increases ankle support during a parachute jump. Description Although there is considerable variation in the features of modern jump boots, the defining characteristics of the original US M1942 "Boots, Parachute Jumper" (as popularized by the Corcoran Boot Company during World War II) are extended lacing from the instep to the calf and rigid, reinforced toe caps; these features were intended to give greater support to the wearer's ankles and toes during the rough landings routinely experienced by paratroopers. The most common US combat boots of the World War II era (the M1939 "Shoes, Service, Composition Sole") had non-reinforced uppers and only laced to just above the ankle, requiring the use of separate leggings or puttees to provide support and prevent mud and dirt from entering the boot. Although less flexible than the lighter standard issue boot—and therefore often less comfortable when marching, especially when cold or not well broken in—such specially reinforced footwear was seen as a practical necessity, as upwards of 30% of paratroopers were expected to suffer lower extremity injuries during a combat jump. Leggings were also considered to present a risk of entanglement with parachute risers. Users Germany During World War II, the Fallschirmjäger wore jump boots with side lacing. Side laced boots were also used by Czechoslovak Paratroopers after 1945. Brazil Brazilian Paratroopers wear brown leather jump boots manufactured by Atalaia. Netherlands Dutch soldiers were issued the M57 Jump Boot from 1958 to 1976. They were a dark brown leather and had stitched soles. Portugal Jump Boots in Portugal are manufactured by Proheral and are laced in the aforementioned distinctive style. While these boots are sometimes worn by non-paratroopers in Portugal, only paratroopers wear them with surplus green paracord instead of the usual black lace. On parade, they are usually worn with white paracord. Spain