Sources about the Roxolani/ leather armour

[Alanus]

I think Michael describes Tacitus' term quite accurately. Rawhide exposed to the elements-- ie. rain-- becomes stiff and hard, which would then give optimum protection. However, I still consider iron scale and lamellar a superior alternative... and I believe Simonenko came to the same conclusion.

Another reasonably accurate depiction of Roxolani-styled armor can be found on the Orlat belt plaque, which has been dated between the 1st century BC and the 1st century CE, and shows armor derived from Han prototypes.

   
The helmets are designed after Han Dynasty examples. During their migration from "Aorsia," and through the Kuban and Crimea, the Roxolani changed their helmet style to the one I'm wearing (as found on Trajan's Column and in Crimean wall paintings). Notice the high collar on the armor, also seen on the Kalcachyan frieze.