DESCRIPTION

Originally introduced in the early 1950s, the French M52 chino pants were issued as part of the French Army’s standard uniform during the postwar reconstruction period. Our reproduction brings this utilitarian classic back to life, staying true to the proportions and construction of the original while refining the fabric and finish for modern wear.

The M52 was inspired by the U.S. Army’s wartime chino but reinterpreted through a French lens. The military transformed the American cut into a sharper silhouette, with a higher waist, deep front pleats, and a clean, structured leg that balanced practicality and elegance. Early versions were produced in France and North Africa using dense cotton twill designed to withstand tropical climates from Algeria to Indochina.

This Universal Surplus edition follows the same principles of durability and structure, made from heavyweight cotton twill with reinforced seams, pleated front, and straight leg. The result preserves the balance that made the M52 iconic.

---

ERA

Contemporary reinterpretation by UNIVERSAL SURPLUS

ORIGIN

50's French Army

FABRIC

100% Cotton Twill

---

SIZE & FIT

Irving is 1m78, 69kg — wearing size US28 / FR38

SIZE	WAIST	OUTSEAM	INSEAM	LEG OPENING
US28 / FR38	34 cm	107 cm	77.5 cm	21
US30 / FR40	35.5 cm	108 cm	78 cm	21.5
US32 / FR42	38 cm	110.5 cm	81 cm	22.5 cm
US34 / FR44	41 cm	113 cm	81.5 cm	23 cm
US36 / FR46	42 cm	114 cm	82.5 cm	24 cm

HOW TO MEASURE

Measurements are taken laid flat.

(A) Waist: Measured from side to side of the waistband.

(B) Outseam: Measured from top of the waistband to the bottom hem.

(C) Inseam: Measured from crotch seam to bottom hem.

(D) Leg Opening: Measured straight across the bottom hem.

---

INFO

CARE

Machine wash 30 °C
Do not bleach
Do not tumble dry
Dry clean allowed

PRODUCTION

Made in China