a pair of coverings for the legs, usually made of dressed skins and often reaching from ankles to hips, where they are fastened to a belt, originally used by the Indians.
See also: leggings
- 1748  We likewise began about this Time to put on our Winter Dress, which consisted of a Robe of Beaver Skin, with the Furr on, which reached to our Heels, and two Waistcoats under it, a Cap and Mittens of the same, lined with Flannel, a Pair of Indian Stockings, over our Yarn ones, made of Broad Cloth or Leather, which reached up to the mid Thigh, with Shoes of soft-tanned Moose or Elk-Skin, under which we wore two or three Pair of Blanket, or thick Duffil Socks to prevent our Feet freezing, which is a thing that nevertheless frequently happens.
- 1820  (1823)  These hose, or as they are termed Indian stockings, are commonly ornamented with beads or ribands, and from their convenience, have been universally adopted by the white residents, as an essential part of their winter clothing.