Caligae Construction

[QFirmus]

The only wrench in the plans I can see, is that the thinner strap is going to be weaker. Even using 5-7 oz leather...where the hole is on the end of the strap for the lace to go through, is going to be under a fair bit of pressure. Not saying it's going to tear or deteriorate right away, but it's going to fail a lot sooner than one which is wider...or thicker for that matter. Any evidence as to the thickness of the leather used?

Magnus, your comments got me thinking, that that seems a modern reenactor problem, not a ancient Roman problem. By this I mean that we go crazy looking for a "correct" source or a good supplier or accurate reconstruction, we do this as a hobby not a living, though I am aware some are far more active than others. The Roman soldier had access to the equipment, all his stuff was period and he did not agonize over finding good period pottery, etc. So when stuff breaks, which it will, there was a ready source. I think I read somewhere that soldiers were issued so many pairs a year, that there were punishments given by NOT replacing them, etc. So it was probably expected to wear out.

In contrast we treasure our kits and items and probably are far too careful, wanting it to last forever, but it porbably was never meant to. So I think if the evidence points in the direction of certain cut, width, etc, then accuracy and function aren't at odds.

What do you think?