What is budenovka?

The budenovka is a distinctive type of hat that was worn by the soldiers of the Russian Red Army during the Russian Civil War and early years of the Soviet Union. It was also commonly worn by civilians in the Soviet Union during that time.

The budenovka is named after Red Army commander Semyon Budyonny and was first introduced in 1918 as part of the new Red Army uniform. It originally had a pointed top, but this was later changed to a rounded top for practical reasons.

The hat was made of wool and typically came in a bright red color, although other colors such as brown and black were also used. It featured a wide band of cloth that covered the ears and tied under the chin, providing protection from the cold weather.

The budenovka became a symbol of the Red Army and the Soviet Union, and it is still associated with that period of Russian history. Today, the hat is often worn as part of historical reenactments and by people who are interested in Soviet-era fashion.