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This uniform was originally developed in the German Army which organised the first unit of parachute troops. The cut down helmet had a thick sorbo-rubber lining and could be worn with a cloth cover. The overall or 'bone sack' was made of cotton duck material and was worn over the field equipment.

The trousers were field grey (not grey blue as is often shown in postwar illustrations) and had special pockets on the side of the thighs to hold a knife, field dressing and other equipment. Elbox Pads (not illustrated) knee pads and padded gloves were all necessary to help avoid injury during landings as the RZ1 parachute was rather primitive.

Why did they change to the cut down helmet... was it something to do with them injuring themselves when they landed when they wore the usual M1939 helmet?

Perhaps this will help..

http://www.greendevils.com/greendevils/combat_equip.htm