Late in World War II, militaries began experimenting with combat boots and jump boots for their soldiers, which obviated the need for leggings. The United States Army retained the less-expensive low-quarter hobnailed boot for its non-elite troops, but added a stiffened leather collar that could be clipped to the top of the shoe to protect against dirt. This proved easier to apply and remove than the more cumbersome laced design, and provided greater mobility in combat. By the 1960's, however, the old low style of shoe had given way to combat boots in most militaries, and leggings of any kind were obsolete. Leggings, usually bright white and often made of patent leather or buff are now worn primarily for ceremonial purposes.