Caligae

Caligae (singular: caliga) were heavy-soled hobnailed military sandals worn by Roman legionaries and auxiliary troops throughout the Roman Republic and Roman Empire. The name caligae is thought to derive from the Latin word calx, meaning heel.

Caligae were constructed from a single piece of thick leather, carefully cut and laced to form a sturdy and open-toed sandal. Multiple layers of leather formed the sole, which was then reinforced with iron hobnails (called clavi) driven through the layers to provide traction and durability. These hobnails were crucial for preventing the leather soles from wearing down quickly on long marches and rough terrain.

The open design of the caligae allowed for ventilation and drainage, which helped to prevent foot problems such as athlete's foot, common among soldiers who spent long periods wearing enclosed footwear. The laces were typically made of leather and were tied around the foot and ankle, providing a secure and comfortable fit.

While practical and widely used, caligae were not without their drawbacks. They offered relatively little protection against the elements, particularly in cold or wet weather, and provided limited ankle support. Furthermore, the hobnails could be noisy and contributed to the distinctive sound of a marching Roman legion.

Caligae were a standard issue item for Roman soldiers and a defining characteristic of their military dress. The emperor Gaius Caesar, better known as Caligula (meaning "little boot"), received his nickname from the caligae he wore as a child while accompanying his father, Germanicus, on military campaigns. This association highlights the ubiquity of the caligae within the Roman army.