A real hit on the trek!
This XL-sized beret is called a “Pie” or “Tarte” in french.
It is a hallmark of the French alpine troops which train for mountain and winter combat and recon.
The Italians have the Alpini and the Germans the Alpen Jaeger, all translating to “alpine hunters”. The medal on the beret is a hunting horn.
The story goes that, in the 19th century when the units were formed they had very little gear. They would wrap themselves up in their capes at night and put their berets over their feet!
To the often asked questions:
1) I wear shoe size 12 (46)
2) Yes it fits… did you take a look at the size of this thing?!?