The Caligae

The caligae were the military form of the sandal that was commonly used by both the military and civilians alike. Shoes and sandals varied widely in style and design. The type shown here is a typical form which includes hobnails that prevent wear on the bottoms from long days of marching. The hobnails tend to break off at the heel, and like all Roman equipment, could be easily repaired in the field. A soldier would wear out and obtain new caligae every 6 months or so, after many repairs were made. Often wool socks were worn under the caligae, which made them much more comfortable. The hobnail shanks are bent over and clenched into the leather before another l ayer of leather is glued over the ends to protect the feet. Many styles of caligae were made, though military forms seem to have followed a similar style. The pattern shown here is only one of many designs discovered at Roman fort sites. About 1/2" of leather is glued to the bottom of this patterned piece and one layer is glued on the inside to form the insole. The back of the pattern piece is stitched at the bottom and up the back of the heel. Before the insole layer is glued in, the hobnails are hammered into the bottom layers and pattern layer and the nail points are clenched over. This holds the entire sole together. The pattern of the nails on the bottom of the caliga varies widely. This style shows a "U" shaped pattern inside the outer periphery row of nails. Other have an "S" shape pattern along the bottom, also within the outer periphery row of nails.