The main fighting equipment of an auxiliary cavalryman from a cohort equitata or an ala of the 1st century. Cavalrymen in alae had higher status and this may have been reflected in their equipment - for example gilt hemets.

1 Pony-sized mount

2 Roman saddles had 'horns' to grip the rider's waist. The Romans did not use stirrups.

3 Harness decorations

4 Helmet of bronze or iron with broad neck guard

5 Mail shirt

6 Tunic worn under the mai

7 leather trousers worn with Caligae the military hob nailed boots

8 Long sword, known as a spatha

9 Shield - there is some evidence for shield patterns to be consistent within units

10 Spear