The Surprising Reason US Navy Sailors Wear 13-Button Pants

Navies globally continue to honor a range of long-standing traditions, many of which have been maintained for centuries despite their somewhat vague beginnings. Notably, the 13-button trousers worn by US Navy sailors stand out because of their well-documented history. Although these trousers serve a practical purpose, they are also thought to carry symbolic importance, as recorded in various interpretations.

'Crackerjacks'

In the early 1800s, the US Navy brought in 13-button bellbottom trousers, affectionately known as "Crackerjacks," with practicality as their main focus. The flared legs were designed to be easily rolled up during strenuous tasks, offering sailors a handy convenience. Moreover, this flared style allowed for swift removal if a sailor went overboard, eliminating the need to remove their shoes. This was crucial, as it prevented the heavy, water-soaked wool from dragging sailors down underwater.

There are other theories

Alongside these practical aspects, there are different theories regarding the 13-button pants. One theory proposes that the flared bottoms were designed to give US Navy sailors a distinctive appearance. Furthermore, since zippers were not widely used then, the buttons served to fasten the crotch area, referred to as the "broadfall."

Why do the pants worn by US Navy sailors have 13 buttons?

As previously noted, the broadfall section of the pants is fastened with exactly 13 buttons, often thought to symbolize America's original 13 colonies. However, this is generally seen as a sailor's legend.

Originally, the broadfall had 15 buttons , but the count was reduced to seven to save on material. Sailors soon voiced concerns that the section was too tight, partly due to weight gain from dietary changes and the discomfort it caused their "gear." In response, the US Navy enlarged the broadfall, which required more material and the addition of six more buttons.

What about other pieces of uniform?

Other parts of the US uniform had several uses. The neckerchief functioned as both a headband and a cleaning cloth, also helping to keep the uniforms neat. In the 19th century, sailors often had long hair, which they secured in ponytails with a sticky tar-like substance to avoid distraction during work. The neckerchief was essential in keeping their hair from interfering with their clothing.

Honoring Horatio Nelson?

Like the "13 buttons, 13 colonies" explanation for the bellbottom pants, the neckerchief also has an alternative and unlikely origin. Allegedly, the fabric is a symbol to honor Horatio Nelson , with the three white lines representing his three major victories.

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Today, this style of uniform is for dress purposes, rather than actual work, and these unique features were retained to maintain traditions.