Leather Armor? (NO HOLDS BARRED!!)

[Tarbicus]

I have a question regarding the practicality of leather armor (used for battle) : Even if it could offer some protection, I can't imagine it taking a lot of punishment and retaining its shape. So, if it took any amount of damage, how do you repair it ? I mean, it's all one piece, right ? So, do you literally patch up the damage with strips of leather ? Or do you sew it up ?

If you were rich enough, how about just throw it away and wear a new one?

It'll look like crap if you do either and so it loses its function as a morale-booster.

That's subjective. Perhaps the boys in the ranks thought it gave the officer a veteran's look? Still splendid, but rough around the edges. On the other hand, he may just have worn a replacement.

I just can't imagine it having a long life, which leads me to believe that it was very cheap.

What does longevity have to do with it? Where did it say an officer had to buy equipment that would last all of his life? If a tribune, he was probably only going to be in the army for a few years anyway. Why spend all that money on something he may be glad to see the back of in a few years?