An Italian straw helmet produced by Radiconcini in Rome likely in the 1920s. This example features the “Light Cavalry” badge for the 2nd Irregular Native Troops in Libya. It is made in three layers : cotton gauze, aluminum insulation and straw.
A closer look at some Italian straw-made helmets from the Inter-war and World War II era.
The view of the inside of the helmet shows a most unusual liner, which is actually similar to the British-made Khaki Sola Pith hat liner.
A close up of the stamp on the leather headband. This close-up also gives a good view of the straw material used to produce the helmet.
The maker label in the dome of the helmet, and another close up of the straw weave used in this helmet’s construction.
A close up of the “Light Cavalry” badge, which also shows the unique grommets used for ventilation.
A child’s version of the Model 1928 helmet for the Italian Youth del Littorio (GIL), which was active from 1935-1942. It may have been used at DUX camps in Africa.
The front view of the helmet shows that the fabric-covered “Massawa” canvas is identical to the adult model.
The interior of the helmet shows the straw wicker construction along with the headband.
A close up of the straw weave at the dome of the helmet with the size stamp.
A Model 1928 helmet, made of straw, with the insignia of the Royal Carabineers. This pattern helmet was typically also used by the military police corps (Carabinieris Reali), and is often associated with the PAI (Polizia Africa Italiana).
The insignia of the Royal Carabineers.
The interior shows the unique straw weave.
Enzo Faraone