ČSLA Protective Equipment for Jumps
Paratrooper Helmet and Gloves
ČSLA fibreglass paratrooper helmet in two types and leather gloves – protection against burns from parachute lines and GK-30 container straps.
The protective helmet and leather gloves formed part of the standard equipment of ČSLA paratroopers during parachute jumps. The helmet protected the head during the jump and subsequent combat operations; the gloves protected hands from burns caused by parachute lines and the GK-30 container straps.
Paratrooper Helmet – Construction
Fibreglass shell
The helmet shell is made from fibreglass. It is put on by spreading the lower part of the shell at the ear area – never by pulling the chin straps.
Inner padding
The inner padding is made from health-safe materials – leather and foam.
Removal
The easiest way to remove the helmet is to grip the lowest edge, spread if necessary, and pull backwards.
Storage
The helmet must be kept away from open flames and stored at least 1 m from any heat source.
Para Helmet – First Type
Marked with size 58 and army acceptance year 1969. The markings are hidden under the top leather padding with eight ventilation holes.
Para Helmet – Second Type
Paratrooper Gloves
Leather gloves for paratroopers were introduced from the 1950s, modelled on leather flying gloves used by Western pilots during World War II. Their main purpose was protection of hands when controlling the parachuteduring descent. Parachute lines and harness materials (V1, PD-47, and later OVP-65, OVP-68, OVP-80) could cause burns when the bare palm slid along them quickly. The gloves also protected hands when releasing the GK-30 container after canopy opening.
Wrist coverage
The gloves were long enough to cover the cuff, preventing exposure of the bare wrist.
Cold protection
Besides burn protection, the gloves also protected against cold in winter and freezing conditions.
Limitation when using a knife
The downside was reduced sensitivity when needing to use a knife in the air – for example when cutting lines, GK-30 straps or clearing a parachute malfunction.
