07-28-2014, 02:20 AM
Quote:Ok 32 degrees celsius ( 90 degrees fahrenheit if I am right ) is quite an exaggeration, no ancient army went to fight in such a heat.Climate has never been a reason why a soldier chose to wear a particular armour. We know that some of the heaviest armours ever invented were worn on summer campaigns in the arid regions of the MIddle East for thousands of years. I've worn these all day in the middle of an Australian summer with no more discomfort than wearing heavy clothing. The main problem with heat exhaustion is caused by enclosed helmets, not armour. If you stay hydrated and keep your head ventillated then heavy armour is no problem at all.
I think people underestimate the value of acclimatization. I grew up in Australia and was rarely subjected to air conditioning until I was an adult. I have more trouble functioning in 15 deg C than 35 deg C. I can do manual labour outside all day in 35 deg C..
Author: Bronze Age Military Equipment, Pen & Sword Books