the colonial helmet "salacot"
The colonial or tropical helmet is the military version of the pith helmet for civilian use, the latter originating from the Philippines. It has the shape of a half spherical cap, which covers most of the skull and the nape of the neck. It is usually attached to the head by a ring distant from the edges to allow air to circulate, as well as by ventilation holes. It is made with woven strips of cane or other natural material. The word is of Tagalog origin (salaksak).
The colonial helmet was first worn by the colonial troops of the British Army, stationed in hot countries.
During the first half of the 20th century, the colonial helmet was still used by the different armies, and their designs are based on the designEnglish Wolseley, which is getting closer to the shape of the pith helmet.
During the First World War it was widely used by the troops of the contending countries that fought in the Middle East and Africa.
Its use is maintained during the Second World War, examples of this are found in the armies:German,Italian,French,British, USA, Japanese; in the North African and Pacific settings.
This helmet obviously lacks the same ballistic protection as the steel helmet, but in its favor it has that it is more bearable in hot and humid climates, and protects from the sun, heat and water.
It was made of different materials: fiber, cork, vegetable fabric, pressed cardboard treated with resins, etc.
From the second half of the war it fell into disuse in favor of the caps, lighter and the steel helmet, better protection.
