Why did German soldiers wear tight leggings around their lower legs and ankles?

To protect & support the calves & ankles & prevent rocks, debris, etc., from entering the boot.They also provided a measure of warmth in cold weather. Initially, German soldiers in both World Wars initially wore high leather boots, “Marschstiefel” or “Jackboots”. Due to the British naval blockade in WWI, & the resulting leather shortage, the German Army switched to a lower cut boot (Schnurshue) & wool wrap style leggings known as “Gamaschen”, or better known as “Puttees” in English . Most were made from wool, but some later models were made from cotton or cotton blend. Most of the armies of WWI utalized puttees, including the British, French, Austro-Hungarian, & US. They would continue to see service into WWII.

German Stormtrooper c. 1918.

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German Infantryman c. 1916.

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British Infantry with puttees c. 1917.

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Source: Michael Herndon (Quora)